Exciting proposal to designate St Julian's Park a Nature Reserve
Posted on Friday 29th May 2015
A report published today (Friday) by the leader of Newport City Council, Bob Bright could see Julian’s Park designated as a Local Nature Reserve.
Local ward councillors and cabinet members will be consulted on the report before its formal endorsement by the cabinet member for Streetscene and City Services, Councillor Deborah Davies.
Once approved, the proposal will need to go to Natural Resources Wales for consultation.
The park is currently home to over 300 species of plants and animals and includes an ancient woodland, grassland, freshwater stream and scrub.
Its designation as a Nature Reserve will allow Newport City Council to access external funding to develop the park’s significant potential for the benefit of both residents and visitors.
The earliest reference to St Julian’s Park dates back to 1583 when it was described as medieval deer park.
St Julian’s Park which serves the communities of Caerleon, St Julians, Beechwood and Lawrence Hill is popular with ramblers and dog walkers.
As part of the plans there will be improved access throughout the park which will also allow for the seamless movement of people between the wards of St Julian’s and Caerleon.
The value of open green spaces is well documented and this is something that Newport City Council is keen to develop. Areas within the proposed Nature Reserve will be clearly defined and supported by information promoting the park’s obvious health and recreational benefits. An outdoor classroom and forest school are also included in the ambitious proposals.
With the designation of the site as a Local Nature Reserve, the park’s conservation value would be recognised in statute.