David Bellamy Conservation Award

The David Bellamy Conservation Award Scheme was set up in 1996 by Professor David Bellamy and is designed to recognise British Parks for their contribution and commitment towards the protection and enhancement of the natural environment.

The assessment of the Park covers many environmental issues - ranging from aspects such as the care of hedgerows and wild flowers to the sitting of bird boxes and the development and protection of reed beds, wildlife ponds and lakes. Professor Bellamy also looks at aspects of park management which do not directly affect the immediate environment, but which are important in overall conservation terms, such as sensible water management systems, the utilisation of long-life light bulbs and recycling of waste.

At Highfields, we will this year be applying for this prestigious award for the first time. We hope to achieve the GOLD award for our help towards protecting the environment.

For many years, our initiatives at Lowfields (our sister site) have earned us the GOLD award. Activities have included recycling, using low level lighting around the site, encouraging wildlife in all shapes and forms through creation of new and maintenance of existing habitats and erecting bird, owl and bat boxes. High-nectar flower borders have been created, water butts installed and grassland management techniques have been successfully utilised. We conserve our lakes and keep a three dimensional appearance throughout the site which helps to create a haven for wildlife.

At Highfields, there is much more scope due to the amount and type of land available. We already have a reed-bed system in operation which helps to purify waste water and there is lots, lots more to come!