Clean-up of Aldersbrook Wood - 12th April 2011
After years of relative neglect, the small area of woodland next to Wanstead Park known as Aldersbrook Wood got a clean-up. Employees of the London Borough of Redbridge and volunteers spent a few hours on Tuesday 12th April clearing accumulated rubbish and litter from the area. It was decided that any major vegetation clearance that might be required should not be undertaken because of disturbance to wildlife at this busy time of year. However, some vegetation was cut back from the pathway that cuts through the site from the 1970's Aldersbrook estate to make the route easier.
As well as Naomi and Stan from L.B. Redbridge' Conservation Team - other staff helped with the rubbish removal in the wood and by transporting loads away in a truck. Volunteers were individuals and members of the Wren Conservation Group, Epping Forest Outdoor Group and Wanstead Parklands Community Project.
Amongst the material removed was most of the component parts of a motorcycle - including a helmet -, various bits of electronic gear and a boat's paddle. These were augmented by seemingly endless beer and drink cans - many deposited over the fence from Wanstead Park as Perch Pond is adjacent and - sad to say - some anglers use the wood as a depository. There was also a considerable amount of garden rubbish, some of which - although it would eventually rot down into compost - in the meantime makes the wood look untidy.
It is hoped that another practical-work day will be undertaken later in the year to clear some of the invasive bramble and create some glades to enhance the wildlife.
Paul Ferris, 17th April 2011
Clearing garden throw-outs from the edge of the wood
The clear-up team and some of the rubbish