Have your say on country park

MEMBERS of the public are to be asked for their opinions on the future of parkland in north Essex.

High Woods Country Park in Colchester has just completed a 10-year management plan but now people can have their say on wildlife and community involvement.

It is estimated that 120,000 visits are made annually to the 340-acre site which serves as a "green stepping stone" link between the town and the surrounding countryside.

The park is popular with dog walkers, cyclists and fishermen and there is a team of 40 volunteer rangers.

The plan for the park includes a re-assessment of the site and ideas for habitat improvement and lists ways of enhancing its biodiversity.

It also looks into the use of the park by members of the public and ways of improving the opportunities for community enjoyment.

Threats to the future of the park have also been considered, including the impact of building developments on the wetlands and the threat to wildlife from the increasing isolation from the wider countryside.

Richard Mash, the ranger team manager for Colchester Borough Council, said the main aims were to conserve the natural qualities of the site and provide opportunities for recreation and education.

He said: "Various conservation bodies have received a copy of the plan but we thought it equally important that the people who care about and use the park should also be able to find out what our plans are and comment on them."

Anyone wanting to find out more information about the plan can go the visitors centre, off Turner Road, Colchester, where there are displays detailing the work and a summary of the plan is available.

Anyone wanting the summary by post can phone 01206 282994.

n There will be guided walks around the park on Sunday July 20 at 11am and 2pm to explain the possible changes.