Friends of Ballard Water Meadow lead calls for the New Milton beauty spot to be granted Local Nature Reserve status

DESIGNATING a New Milton beauty spot a Local Nature Reserve would encourage more respect and raise the town’s profile, conservationists argued.

The town council is considering calls for the status to be granted to Ballard Water Meadow, with the possibility of Barton Common also gaining it in the future.

Contrary to a recent working party discussion, Friends of Ballard Water Meadow chairman Bob Lord saw no disadvantages.

A list of cons compiled by the party included increased footfall bringing disturbance to wildlife, littering and irresponsible dog walkers.

But Mr Lord said: “There will always be a minority of people who don’t respect the aspirations of those doing their best to protect wildlife.

“Local Nature Reserve designation will almost certainly have no impact on matters listed as disadvantages. The advantages for wildlife and people far outweigh these concerns.”

Fellow Friends member Mandy Hayes believed the LNR status would tell people what to expect and how to behave when entering the site.

Julia Stamper, from the New Milton Residents’ Association, expressed her support for the LNR designation as part of raising the town’s profile.

Although suggesting the town council could apply for a grant, she stressed she could not see many financial implications.

“We all know being in green spaces with nature and wildlife is beneficial in so many ways,” Mrs Stamper said.

“The entrance to Ballard Water Meadow really doesn’t do it justice – it’s very utilitarian.

“The proposed new gate and wooden fencing would make it look more special, along with a plate saying it’s a Local Nature Reserve.”

These comments were mostly met with support by amenities members.

Backing Mrs Stamper about raising the town’s profile, Cllr Kani Trehorn suggested videos showcasing Ballard Water Meadow be uploaded to the town council’s website.

Cllr Judith Baker said: “I feel the term ‘nature reserve’ means a lot to people. I would feel proud to live in a town with a nature reserve, even two nature reserves.”

Cllr David Rice-Mundy said: “It would be good for the town and I think people will respect the area more for that, including dog walkers.”

But Cllr David Hawkins was a lone dissenter, although he commended all the work carried out on-site by the Friends.

“I don’t see what advantage there will be, or that it’s going to make any difference whatsoever; and there might be a cost,” Cllr Hawkins said.

“I think it’s perfectly fine as it is.”

Discussions are continuing, with the comments made at the amenities committee meeting passed on to the working party.