Clearing Paths at Unigate Wood Nature Reserve

The Friends of Unigate Wood (FUW) are seeking help cleaning up The Wood. The day will be supervised by Dr. Iain Boulton of environmental officer for Lambeth green spaces & Ruth, the warden. The aim is to continue to create ‘dead hedges’ in strategic points in the Wood and to cut back and dig out some of the invasives e.g. bamboo, laurel, bramble etc.

The hope is to increase food sources for birds and butterflies. The butterfly population was low this year. We must act now if we are to turn the tide on these rapid declines and protect species for future generations.

Having achieved the status of ‘Local Nature Reserve’ & the ‘Green Flag award' for Unigate Wood FUW are keen to continue keeping the wood up to standard with help from the local community. We need to put the work in this Autumn, Winter and next Spring if we are to maintain that higher level. So, your help is very important and will be much appreciated by one and all. Please dress accordingly to keep warm and dry.

There will be the normal break for coffee, tea and biscuits at an agreed hour.

The Wood occupies an almost hidden site and has lots of history attached to it. It is full of 19th Century escapees from the gardens of the big houses up above (e.g. bamboo and laurel in particular). Inevitably, brambles are the most significant of the invasives. All of them appear to flourish at Unigate Wood!

We will meet at the task. GoodGymers are encouraged to walk, run or cycle there if they are able able. Gloves and tools will be provided. You are encouraged to wear sturdy footwear, long trousers, and long sleeves.

The FUW will be onsite for the full 3 hours, but feel free to come for any duration that suits you.

To find the location, travel the length of Sunnyhill Rd away from Streatham High Road and turn left into Valley Rd. Namba Roy Close is the first right. Sunnyhill School on the corner of the two roads is the local landmark. The steps up into the Wood are facing you once inside Namba Roy Close.