River Santry
One of our long term goals is to make a river walk through the village. ​
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​The banks of the Santry river have been chosen as a protected habitat because of the different plants that grow there. Rivers are known as an excellent sites for biodiversity and the Santry river is an important habitat in our village.
We carry out regular cleaning and removal of rubbish from the river. We also do regular river testing.
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In 2022 a biodiversity study of the river identified tree species such as willow and alder which provide vital food for early pollinators and wildflowers such as dog violet and cuckoo pint.
Watermill Woodland
We identified the woodland area beside the shops at the corner of Watermill Road as one place that could be improved and enjoyed by the local community. It has been designated as an area in the village where dandelions flourish in the spring and there is a succession to other wildflowers in spring and summer. This area has ben chosen as it is in the centre of the village and is a different kind of habitat that could be valuable to ground nesting bees. The grass is not cut in the woodland to provide a habitat for a variety of insects and other invertebrates.
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A mulch path has been installed through this small woodland which discourages people from walking on the wildflowers. On advice from a local ecologist, Dr Mary Tubridy, we have planted an understorey of native ferns, shrubs and climbers to enhance the woodland. There is some control necessary of dock and goose grass until the new planting has become established and two dedicated volunteers manage the control of these plants.