3rd August 2026

Today sees the start of clearance work at the Tufa Field SNCI. In what seems to have become an annual event, once again, contractors are destroying a significant Butterfly and Moth breeding and feeding ground, at the height of the season when these  rapidly disappearing creatures are at their most vulnerable.

The program involves initial clearance, cutting paths and removing debris and fly tipped spoil from previous  tenants.This will be followed by a second closer cut once the removal of Slow Worms and other creatures has been ascertained.

Workers cutting the Butterfly Patch

The work is expected to take 2 weeks.

The gallery here shows the work in progress. Even after the severest drought in 50 years, the central stream remains active and running freely.

Picture of Clearance work on North side of Tufa Field SNCI
North End, 07/08/26
Picture of Tufa Field SNCI Central Stream 07/08/26
North End Stream and Culvert Entrance
Picture picture of clearance at Tufa Field SNCI
Tufa Field Entrance 07/08/26
Picture of broken reptile fence North end Tufa Field SNCI
Broken reptile fence 07/08/26
Tufa Field SNCI central stream 07/08/26
Central stream North End 07/08/26
Tufa Field North End Clearance Strip
North End Clearance Strip 07/08/26

Vegetation has been removed in the areas designated for the Swales, underground tanks intended to catch excess water runoff from the field after development. This is to protect gardens and houses down the slope from inundation events.

The vegetation removal has exposed the other attempts to control this space, including two previous reptile fences, infiltration test holes and groundwater measuring boreholes.

Yet more infiltration testing is planned before digging of the Swales.

18th August

Infiltration testing has started. This consists of digging a 2 metre deep pit, filling it with a measured amount of water (ironic on the first day of the local hosepipe ban), and timing how quickly it drains.

You can watch the continuing work on our Live Cameras