Keeping the Colne Valley Park beautiful - Colne Valley Regional Park

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31st March 2021

Keeping the Colne Valley Park beautiful

It has been wonderful to see so many people really enjoying their local countryside and exploring new areas that they never knew existed. Although most people are respectful of their surroundings, unfortunately we have seen an increase in littering, fly-tipping and thoughtless actions which cause damage and can harm wildlife and cattle. The below pictures show how the countryside was affected by litter after the lockdown was eased in 2020. Unfortunately when easing lock down now, in March 2021, we have had reports about people leaving litter around the Colne Valley Park. It’s important that we all work together to keep our countryside beautiful for us all to enjoy.

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Over flowing rubbish

Fly tipping

Just some of the horrible scenes we have encountered in the Park recently

A growing problem is people leaving their litter next to full bins. If the bin is full, or there is no bin, please take your litter home. This is important because wildlife and farm animals will eat what is left behind and could become seriously ill or even die as a result. Taking your rubbish home also means that others can enjoy clean and pleasant green spaces and waterways.

We ask that visitors are considerate of all other users of the Park – walkers, cyclists, horse riders, bird watchers, anglers, boaters etc, and, of course, the farmers who make their livelihoods through feeding the nation and help manage the countryside.

The Countryside Code

Help us keep the Colne Valley clean and safe for visitors and wildlife alike by following the countryside code:

Protect the natural environment

Leave no trace of your visit, take all your litter home
Don’t light barbecues or fires
Keep dogs fully under control
Collect and bag dog mess and put it in the correct bin

Respect other people

Consider the local community and other people enjoying the outdoors
Park carefully so access to gateways and driveways is always clear
Leave gates and property as you find them
Stick to public paths, but give way to others where it’s narrow.
While Covid-19 restrictions are in place, observe all social distancing requirements

Enjoy the outdoors

Plan ahead, check what facilities are open, be prepared
Obey all local signs and advice

For more details click here.

Adam, our habitats and access manager tells us more about why it is important to follow the countryside code…

”Litter has been a big issue in recent months and some of the main hazards are wildlife suffocating in plastic bags, accidentally swallowing bits of harmful plastic and glass, and sharp cans causing cuts and injuries, not to mention that it’s very unpleasant for anyone walking in the park as well.

Rubbish placed in an overflowing bin often blows away or is scattered by wildlife into local rivers, woods and meadows.

It is also important for people to stick to public designated paths, otherwise they run the risk of trampling rare plants and insects, as well as disturbing nesting wildlife or grazing cattle. Dogs off the lead and not under close control can massively disrupt ground nesting birds by flushing them from their nests and preventing them from breeding. Dogs sometimes get away from their owners and chase wildlife or livestock which again can cause disturbance and considerable harm. Please do help where you can as our wildlife and rivers are under so much pressure already – we really need your support to encourage more respect for nature and outdoor environments among our visitors.”

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Litter is a serious risk to wildlife. Picture: Acorns Tiny

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Rubbish on the Colne at Harmondsworth moor

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A duck struggles with a plastic ring

How you can help?

We understand most people will be following the countryside code, but please help us to spread the word to others, explaining the importance of these rules and why they are in place.

You can learn about other ways to support your local countryside and the Colne Valley Park, here https://www.colnevalleypark.org.uk/become-a-champion/

And click here for ways to enjoy and really make the most of this truly beautiful landscape https://www.colnevalleypark.org.uk/visit-colne-valley/.

We are always pleased to hear about what you’ve enjoyed about the park, so get in touch and tell us your particular tale, or share some pictures.

Keep up to date by following us on social media, checking our website or signing up to our newsletter.

Thank you for your support,
The Colne Valley Park Team