The Sensory Wildlife Garden within our Millennium Country Park will be undergoing a long overdue transformation throughout much of 2024 into 2025.

Phase one has already began which includes clearing and deepening the pond to prevent reeds from taking over. Vegetation is an integral part of the pond ecosystem; it is important for both food and shelter for amphibians and invertebrates, such as the protected Great Crested Newts. If left unmanaged, the reed can take over and the pond can silt up. By removing reeds and silt every few years we ensure the pond doesn’t dry up. This work is done in the winter when the creatures such as the smooth and great crested newts are not present and other creatures in the pond are less active.

First four images: Gemma Bateman  |  Fifth image: Francesca Reeve Photography 

The second phase of the Sensory Wildlife Garden redesign is to resurface the paths and replace the raised bed surrounds. This work is being done in the spring when Great Crested Newts are on the move and less likely to be sheltering in nooks and crannies in the flower beds. 

The Garden is likely to look a bit of a mess through the renovation so please bear with us. There will also be periods of the year where the Sensory Garden will be closed, signage will indicate when this will be. 

Click here to view plans

If you have any further questions please contact our Senior Ranger, Nicola Ceconi here.