Wenhaston Commons Group

Wenhaston is located on a sand and gravel ridge and forms part of The Suffolk Sandlings, nationally rare lowland heaths. There are five registered commons in the village:

• Black Heath
• Bickers Heath
• Mill Heath
• Church Common
• Blowers Common

The commons Group also helps to manage two woodlands in partnership with others:

• Vicarage Grove
• Merton Wood

Our Work see Picture Gallery

Our aim is to restore and maintain the commons, heaths and woodlands, enhancing wildlife habitats and the beauty of the landscape for all to enjoy. We do this through a work programme based on our 10 year management plan “Caring For The Commons”.

Working parties carry out various tasks under the supervision of trained leaders. Tasks include: clearing gorse and brambles, scything bracken, removing saplings and clearing paths. Volunteers work at their own pace, tools are provided and safety is a priority. In most cases, work parties begin at 10.00 and finish at 12.00. They are sociable occasions and we usually have a refreshment break.

We work in partnership with Suffolk Wildlife Trust which carries out specialised tasks, gives advice and helps with materials and funding.

Supporting Biodiversity

The commons form part of a target area for Higher Level Stewardship funding and Black Heath has been awarded finance for ten years under this scheme. Black Heath is a County Wildlife Site and all the commons are covered by a Biodiversity Action Plan which aims to support nationally important species including birds such as Wood Lark and Yellowhammer, and our flagship species the Silver Studded Blue butterfly. Our work in reversing the encroachment of gorse and encouraging the growth of heather is helping to deliver these ambitions.

Wildlife Surveys

In addition to the maintenance of the commons, WCG conducts a range of wildlife surveys. These include well established procedures for monitoring butterflies, an extensive nest box project and a recently initiated reptile survey. Members are encouraged to participate in these surveys as well as, or instead of working on the Commons. The work involves walking designated areas of the Commons, some seasonal record keeping and the maintenance of nest boxes.

For further information on becoming a member of WCG contact one of our team leaders:

Jonathan Alder: 01502 478855

Gus Jones: 01502 478085

Barry Norrington: 01502 478762