FINAL 2025 KTC Nature Action Plan WORKING DOCUMENT
• Overview of the plan: A brief description of the Nature Action Plan, its purpose, scope, and the expected outcomes.
Vision & Mission: Vision (long-term aspirations related to nature conservation). Mission (short-term actionable goals to achieve the vision).
• Key Stakeholders: Identify individuals, groups, organizations, or communities that should be involved in or informed about the plan (e.g., local governments, indigenous communities, conservation groups, businesses).
• Engagement Strategy: How will stakeholders be engaged? (e.g., consultations, workshops, collaborative efforts).
• Internal Communication: How will the plan be communicated within the organisation or group?
How
and
1. Introduction to the Town Council Nature Action Plan
Following Keynsham Town Council’s declaration of a Climate Emergency in May 2018, our Environment and Sustainability Committee evolved, and we began some small steps to highlight to our community concerns that we had in respect of protecting and improving the local biodiversity and nature in our area.
The natural environment is at the heart of our community's identity and well-being. From the green spaces that provide relaxation and recreation to the biodiversity that supports a balanced ecosystem, nature plays a crucial role in shaping the quality of life for all residents. However, as climate change accelerates and urbanisation continues, our natural spaces face increasing pressures.
Keynsham Town Council’s Nature Action Plan has been created to guide our efforts in protecting, enhancing, and restoring the natural environment within our town. Through this plan, we aim to set clear objectives and actionable strategies that prioritise sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and community engagement. By working together, the local Authority (Bath and North East Somerset Council, Keynsham Town Council, local businesses and residents of the town can foster a healthy, vibrant environment for present and future generations. When creating the town’s Nature Action Plan, those working on the production of the same, were guided by the Bath and North East Somerset Council Ecological Emergency Action Plan 2023 – 2030 (16th March 2023), 1 the West of England Local Nature Strategy & Toolkit, 2 the Bath and North East Somerset Council’s Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements 3 , together with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs – the Nature Recovery Network Policy paper 4. We also referred to the Town Council’s document ‘Area of Great Landscape Value and Local Green Space – designation for Keynsham East.
Our approach is based on collaboration and long-term vision, ensuring that we leave a legacy of green spaces, clean air, and thriving wildlife. This document outlines key initiatives to reduce environmental impact, increase green areas, and promote ecological stewardship. It’s not just a plan for today, but a commitment to the future of our town and the health of our planet.
We invite all members of our community to join us in this collective effort, as we work to make our town a model of nature-focused living and sustainability. Together, we can take meaningful steps to protect and enhance the natural world around us.
Nature is collapsing at an alarming rate. Since 1970 global populations of wild vertebrates have declined by 60%, and we have lost 83% of freshwater species and up to 76% of insects. Similar trends have been observed locally; in our region, populations of once common birds such as swifts and cuckoos have plummeted in the past 25 years alone.
A range of interacting factors are behind the decline in nature. These include changes in land use and land management, the use of pesticides and other pollutants, the modification of our waterways, the presence of invasive non-native species, and climate change.
This matters to all of us because of the vital role that wildlife and nature play in supporting our wellbeing, society and economy. Nature provides the air we breathe, the food we eat, the water we drink, and many of the resources we need to survive
What is Biodiversity?
Biodiversity is the variety of all living things on Earth, from micro-organisms to mammals. It includes all fungi, plants, animals, the genetic information they contain, the ecosystems they form and the habitats in which they live.
In Keynsham, we refer to biodiversity as ‘wildlife’: this includes mammals, plants, invertebrates, amphibians, birds, lichens, and fungi. The places where wildlife lives, such as woods, rivers, lakes, parks and buildings, are what we refer to as habitats
What is a Nature Action Plan?
A Town Nature Action Plan is simply a way for Parish and Town Councils to plan the action they will take to help nature in their area. They are intended to help Parish and Town Councils identify their existing assets for nature and opportunities for restoring nature in their area. Opportunities may exist on land they own and arise through engaging with residents and communities, businesses and local landholders.
Keynsham Town Council, during the production of this Nature Action Plan has worked in partnership with local expertise and community groups, securing buy-in from as many people and organisations as possible. The parks and green spaces, woodlands, conservation areas, roadside plots of land, allotments, school grounds, river courses and other areas assessed to form our plan have all been undertaken by Friends of Groups and Volunteer Groups, local Nature Groups and Action Groups, local businesses, local landholders, Resident Groups, Youth Organisations such as Scouts, Guides and Youth Clubs
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3. Purpose and Objectives of Keynsham Nature Action Plan
Keynsham Town Council will through its Keynsham Nature Action Plan work to achieve ways to halt biodiversity loss, work towards restoring habitats and encourage sustainable resource use.
Specific targets that that Keynsham Town will work towards are identified below:
Biodiversity Targets
• Jointly with members of our community and Bath and North East Somerset Council plant 1000 native trees in community woodlands, parks schools and local streets by 2035
• Identify areas to create several wildlife meadows within 3 years.
• Install 100 bird and bat boxes across public spaces by 2028.
• Map and protect all significant local wildlife habitats by 2030
Habitat Restoration and Creation
• Work to improve or create two local ponds and one area of wetland by 2030
• In conjunction with local organisations identify places to introduce green roofs or walls in the town of Keynsham by 2030.
• Designate 5 new "wild zones" (untended areas) in parks by 2028
Pollution Reduction
• Ban the use of pesticides and herbicides on Council land by 2026.
• Work with the local authority (Bath and North East Somerset Council to achieve 90% recycling rate for green waste collected from Council maintenance.
Community Engagement
• Host 12 community planting days per year.
• Launch a “Garden for Nature” program get 1,000 households signed up to create wildlife-friendly gardens by 2028.
• Train 100 "Nature Champions" (volunteers) to lead local initiatives by 2027.
Climate and Resilience
• Increase tree canopy cover by 10% across the town by 2030.
• Ensure every child plants a tree during their school years (2025–2030 goal).
• Develop a Nature Recovery Network map to connect green spaces by 2028.
Monitoring
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• Create an Annual State of Nature Report starting 2026 to track progress.
• Ensure that the Local Authority protect 100% of Local Wildlife Sites through planning controls by 2026.
4. Strategies and Action Plan
• Key Actions:
Specific actions that will help achieve the objectives, including responsible parties and timelines. These should be actionable steps.
Strategies
A. Address the effects on the natural environment from Climate Change and the pressures of human-driven activity.
B. Enhance the ecological value of core areas within the town by promoting the extent and diversity of wildlife species and habitats
C. Develop habitat webs for example, for plants, ferns, lichens, trees, insects, birds, mammals and amphibians.
D. Connect environmentally valuable areas by developing, creating and enhancing connecting corridors.
E. Make nature relevant to residents by encouraging participation in the proposed Nature Action Plan actions and carrying out educational initiatives for all age groups.
Action Plan
• Action 1: Conduct environmental audits to assess current impacts.
• Action 2: Develop partnerships with environmental non-Governmental Organisations to facilitate conservation programs.
• Action 3: Organise community education campaigns to promote sustainable practices.
• Action 4: Implement waste reduction programs that local businesses can get involved in.
The Nature Plan produced by Keynsham Town Council and the community as a whole nature aims to support and enhance initiatives to increase the biodiversity of green spaces and buildings that are crucial to connecting the bigger green spaces.
Such initiatives include:
(i) Connecting Corridors: this initiative will establish a clear, simple, quick process by which groups of residents/local community organisations can take over Bath and North East Somerset Council owned smaller green spaces
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(under a licence agreement such as the one that Keynsham In Bloom has for the Pocket Park and the Manor Road triangle – wildflower verge) and enhance spaces close to them – Keynsham Town Council will signpost interested residents to advise and support what people need. Some residents already have open spaces licenses and are improving stretches for nature.
(ii) Including roadside verges in the Connecting Corridors initiative: This initiative will see the Town Council working collaboratively with Bath and North East Somerset Council to better manage all their road verges for wildlife and make the process for adoption of green spaces simpler. Keynsham Town Council will work with residents wanting to take on their local verges for planting opportunities. Keynsham Town Council have already received several such requests.
(iii) Connecting Corridors, The Back Gardens Project: This initiative will encourage people to think about how their back gardens can contribute to connecting corridors. At its Farmer’s Stalls Keynsham Town Council will continue to encourage residents to think about how gardens can provide crucial wildlife corridors. Keynsham Town Council has already instigated initiatives such as hedgehog highways, pollinator planting, tree planting support, free tree and wild flower seed give aways. Further initiatives to promote include pesticide free promotions, production of compost using a wormery, no mow May and no tidying for winter projects (creating places of safe winter hibernating for wildlife).
(iv) Buildings for Nature: As most of the Town is urban, making buildings more nature friendly is vital. Keynsham Town Council will promote nature friendly building design / adaptation for example: promoting living roofs on flat roofs Keynsham Town Council along with Bath and North East Somerset Council will insist on the provision of bat and bird boxes being installed as part of the construction of homes in the town.
(v) Influencing the Planning Process: working with Avon Wildlife Trust, Transition Bath, Councillors and other invested or experienced parties, the Town Council regularly submits planning objections in an attempt to preserve and give priority to nature and habitats. The Keynsham Local Nature Action Plan gives an opportunity for increasing that pressure on planning departments and developers.
5. Stakeholder engagement
This Nature Action Plan is led by Keynsham Town Council, as a first step towards a town-wide action plan owned and drafted by the community, using its insights into our environment.
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Stakeholders - To deliver this plan will require active support from a wide range of organisations, groups and individuals, including Bath and North East Somerset Council, both to identify opportunities and deliver them.
Stakeholder table:
Role Contact
Keynsham Town Council Co-ordinator, seeking funding, committee structure
Bath and North East Somerset Council
Action and Interest
Groups inc: e.g. local wildlife groups
Guidance and specialist advice
Action on B&NES Council land
Town Clerk townclerk@Keynsham-tc.gov.uk
Town Councillors and Staff
Ideas, feedback, volunteers, work, surveys, ongoing site support
Digital communities Ideas, feedback, volunteers, work, surveys, ongoing site support
Neighbouring parishes Ideas, feedback, volunteers, work, surveys, ongoing site support, project collaboration in linked areas
B&NES Environment and Biodiversity Officers – Nature Recovery Team
B&NES Environmental Protection Team
B&NES Environmental Services and Green and Clean Teams
B&NES Councillors
These include existing Wildlife and Friends Groups, Residents’ Groups and Residents. We will bring together into local working groups as the plan progresses.
Keynsham Town Council Facebook
Keynsham Wombles (@Keynshamwombles)
Instagram
Keynsham Group Avon Wildlife Trust –www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk Keynsham In Bloom Facebook
Ideas, feedback, volunteers, work, surveys, ongoing site support
Site Users/ affected residents
Residents’ groups and individuals
Ideas, feedback, volunteers, work, surveys, ongoing site support
Ideas, feedback, volunteers, work, surveys, ongoing site support
Other key local groups and organisations
Landowners and lease holders
Ideas, feedback, volunteers, work, surveys, ongoing site support, project collaboration
Ideas, feedback, volunteers, work, surveys, ongoing site support, site access, project collaboration, sponsorship
Friends of Manor Road Woodland
https://www.facebook.com/fmrcw/?locale=en_GB
Keynsham Abbey Working Group –https://www.keynshamabbey.com/
Fox and Hounds Action Group also future groups to be included (next review) Winscombe Close Community Orchard, the Paddock and the Hygge Estate
Keynsham Allotment Assocation - https://evoice.org.uk/keynshamallotmentassociation/ Future allotments Bilbie Green and Withies Park Allotments
Old Vicarage Green
For the future (next review) add The Hygge Estate
Individual Residents – via social media, noticeboards and newsletters. Town Council Facebook Page
Schools (primary and secondary by zone), further education colleges, university students local organisations, who are not wildlife focused including Youth, Church, Heritage, Arts, Sports and Culture.
Businesses (by area/zone)
Other public sector bodies owning buildings
Stakeholder interest grid
Wherever people start in this grid, we hope more people will become interested and want to work with the groups who will be at the centre of taking this forward.
Town Councillors /staff Support action for nature on all Town Council grounds and help us to engage with residents and businesses (stakeholder s)
B&NES Ward Councillors General support for project. Gain access to member awarded funding. Active support from Councillors in zone.
Council has agreed LNAP commitment
Update reports from LNAP group to Environment and Community Committee Information to go on Town Council website and social media platforms
By end of December 2025
KTC has agreed LNAP commitment, supports B&NES initiative for LNAP Sales pitch –explanation of support / resources needed,
Progress reports
Update reports from LNAP group via Town Clerk Ongoing
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B&NES Nature Recovery Manager
Support promotion of actions taken by local councils actions proposed, importance of LNAP work in locality
General support for project Access to B&NES knowledge/ expertise bank
Support with funding
Friends and all other interest groups (1.1 stakeholder) Encourage participation in LNAP. General support for project. Advice, information, support, project feedback, collaborative working.
Support funding applications.
3rd party promotion of KTC LNAP
7. Land Ownership
Completed LNAP proposals
Draft LNAP
Final LNAP
Progress reports
Consultation feedback
Sales pitch –explanation of support / resources needed, actions proposed, importance of LNAP work in locality
Importance of community collaboration/ contribution to environmental projects
Presentation to groups and feedback
KTC updates website / social media
End Sept 2021 draft LNAP
End April 2022 Final LNAP
Biannual monthly updates to Nature_Recove ry@BATHNES. GOV.UK
Initial consultation resolved Ongoing updates as/when actions are progressed
Keynsham Town Council (owned or leased)
Town Council controlled (HIGH Influence). The land that is either owned or leased by Keynsham Town Council is shown in the table below. The site assessments of Town Council owned or leased land are referenced by page in column four. For the full land
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assessment refer to the page within this plan. Whether leased or owned will be identified in the title of the assessment and the site will be shown in a map
Keynsham Town Council owned and leased land Table:
Keynsham Town Council owned and leased land Table: Site Name
from
Bath and North East Somerset Council Owned (High Influence)
Bath and North East Somerset Council (B&NES) owned sites (HIGH Influence). The land that is owned B&NES is shown in the table below. The site assessments of B&NES land are referenced by page in column two. For the full land assessment refer to the page within this plan. The B&NES sites will be identified in the title of the assessment, and the site will be shown in a map
Bath and North East Somerset Council owned land Table: Site
Manor Road Woodland Woodland, meadow and wildlife pond
Abbotts Wood Woodland & green open space
Winscombe Close Community Orchard
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Teviot Green Space
Kelston Green Space
Play areas and Green SpacesWinscombe Close and St. George’s Road
Chalfield Close & B&NES Nature Reserve
Conway Green Space
Keynsham Memorial Park
Pixash Lane – Boggy patch
Somerdale Hams
Humpty Tumps and adjoining woodland to south
Land between Steel Mills and St. Clement’s Road
Strip of land near St. Francis Road from St. Ladoc
Keynsham Pocket Park
Third Party Land (Low Influence)
Open space, hedgerow, grass, tree planting and watercourse
Open space, grass and tree planting
Open space, grass and tree planting
Grass: Priority Habitat Inventory Site
Grass
Open space, hedgerow, grass, wildflower areas, tree planting and watercourse
Grass and boggy marshland
Open spaces, wild flowers, slopes, flood plain and buffer land
Open spaces, wild flowers, slopes and buffer land
Grass and trees sloping land
Open spaces – grassland verge
Grass, trees, flower beds, wildlife pond
Third party owned sites (LOW Influence). The land that is owned by third parties is shown in the table below. The site assessments of land owned by third party organisations are referenced by page in the map site column. For the full land assessment refer to the page within this plan. The third-party land will be identified in the title of the assessment, and the site will be shown in a map
Land not owned or leased by Keynsham Town Council Table (note maps in actual site assessment appendix
Site Name
Downfields Green Space
Wet land area of the Hygge Estate
Land at the rear of St. John’s Court
Land facing Bristol Road
Land behind Trescothick
Close
Albert Mill River Setting
Old Vicarage Green
Details
Curo Housing Association
Developers – Crest Nicholson and Curo
Housing Association - Curo owned land
Housing Association - Curo owned land
Developer - Taylor Wimpey
Residents’ Association
Residents’ Association
Chandos Way ParkSomerdale Management Company – GreenSquare Accord
Manor Road Community
Woodland
Abbotts Wood
Friends of group
Friends of group
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Broadmead and land
adjoining Keynsham Sewage Works
Gardens Over 9000 in Town Council area; and areas around churches and other community buildings e.g., scout hut
Somerdale Educate Together School
Two Rivers School
Chandag School
Wellsway Academy
Wellsway Academy
Wellsway Academy
Conservation Area
Forest School and Eco Council
Forest School
Green Team Conservation Area
Forest School
Playing fields
Private Land - River Course South of Keynsham Memorial Park – Albert Mill to Chewton Place
Private Land – River course River Avon East of the Lock Keeper
Private Land – Water course Stockwood Vale – fishing pond
Private land – Woodland Wood in Durley Lane
Private Land - Woodland Wood to the North of Broadlands School –Stockwood Vale
Private Land - Woodland Woodland by former Fry’s railway line and at the confluence of the River Chew and River Avon
Private Land - Woodland Woodland to the North-East of Somerdale
Private Land - Woodland Woodland to the North-East of Broadmead Roundabout
Private Land - Woodland Woodland at Uplands off Wellsway
Private Land – Woodland near Keynsham Railway Station Great Western Recycling – Conservation area.
Private Land – Former Railway Line
Former Fry’s railway line
Private Land - Fields Fields near Manor Road Community Woodland
Private Land - Fields Stockwood Vale
8. Sites Designated for Nature Importance
Locations designated for reasons relating to species or habitat. See MAGIC (defra.gov.uk) https://magic.defra.gov.uk/MagicMap.html which identifies Woodland Priority Habitat Network (England) areas of significant habitats and biodiversity
The Local Nature Action Plan will need to recognise and follow national and site-specific advice when working in or near these areas. Working with consideration to these areas is an opportunity to consider widening designations where appropriate.
NB*There are no internationally designated locations within the Town boundaries
Woodland Priority Habitat Network
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To the south of the A4 from Hicks Gate, Stockwood Vale is an area of limestone with clay and shales on the valley sides and mudstones on the valley floor. The area is dominated by two narrow tributary valleys with mainly grassland in the form of angular and irregular fields on the plateaux, eventually sloping up towards Queen Charlton. Boundaries are generally marked by unclipped hedges and tree lines, with woodland on upper slopes. The valleys have a tranquil character and are heavily wooded along the banks of the streams. The landscape generally has an open character with views contained by ridges, which helps to prevent a sense of encroachment of development across the narrow Green Belt gap between Stockwood, Bristol and Keynsham.
The following flora and fauna have been identified: cowslip, cut-leaved crane's-bill, Goldilocks buttercup, woolly thistle and bird's-foot trefoil are amongst the flowers to be found, and numerous butterflies include meadow brown, marbled white and large skipper. The woodlands are home to bluebell, yellow archangel and the rare Bath asparagus. Birds including whitethroats, buzzards, kestrels and sparrowhawks are often seen. Mammals include badgers, foxes, roe deer and muntjac deer. Two farm ponds are homes for frogs, toads and newts.
Manor Road Community Woodland (information from B&NES Council website).
The history of Manor Road Community Woodland
Manor Road Community Woodland lies on the eastern edge of Keynsham and close to the village of Saltford. This area forms part of an important green gap between the two communities, and has been designated as a Local Nature Reserve, on Green Belt land.
The Manor Park Community Woodland lies to the east of Keynsham, bounded by Manor Road, Minsmere Road and Courtenay Road Over 19,000 trees and shrubs have been planted on the 21-hectare site since 1993, with grant aid from the Forestry Commission. Most of these are native broadleaves, such as oak, ash and birch, and reflect some of the species already found in the area. There is also a wildflower meadow (planted in 2005) and a pond, which both provide feeding and breeding sites for local wildlife.
A number of agencies and organisations have helped to finance maintenance and improvement work in the woodland, including our B&NES Council, the Countryside Agency, Forest of Avon, Avon Valley Partnership, Keynsham Town Council and The Woodland Trust.
We have already used some of this funding, together with generous private donations, to complete the following work in the woodland:
• Small-scale improvements to help people access the woodland more easily
• Wildlife and landscape conservation work
Abbotts Wood
Abbotts Wood is a historic and ecologically rich woodland located in Keynsham, Somerset, on the southern edge of the town near residential areas. It offers a peaceful natural retreat with a variety of walking paths and diverse wildlife. It is designated as a Green Space within the Local Authorities Local Plan
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History and Ecology
Features and Attractions
Abbotts Wood is interwoven with footpaths that meander through its natural landscape. A notable feature within the woodland is a stone ammonite sculpture, reflecting the area's geological heritage and adding an artistic touch to the natural surroundings
Management and Community Involvement
Originally transferred to the Woodland Trust in the mid-1990s, Abbotts Wood has been subject to a restrictive covenant ensuring its use for public enjoyment as woodland. In 2014, Bath and North East Somerset Council initiated plans to purchase the woodland from the Trust as part of a broader development strategy. The local community actively participates in the stewardship of the woodland through the "Friends of Abbotts Wood" group, which organizes events like litter picks and monitors the area's well-being
Most of Keynsham’s key species can be found in the locations described in in appendix 4. Others, such as scarce moths and other insects, are not easy to find but appear in moth traps or are occasionally spotted in the countryside so obviously reside within the area. There is little point in documenting every species of note but four have been selected for specific reasons.
Swift (Apus apus)
These birds arrive in late April and early May after which they are obvious as they fly over the town and countryside as they search for food. Most have departed by the end of August. It has been apparent in recent years that when spotting the first arrivals and counting birds in the summer, fewer birds are seen compared to a few years ago. Part of the reason is probably the availability of suitable nest sites as houses are built to standards that provide birds with little opportunity.
It is recommended that all new houses have Swift bricks designed into them before being built. This is much cheaper than retrofitting them and more difficult for the local authority to make this a requirement. The RSPB provides good guidance on the detail.
Bath Asparagus (Ornithogalum pyrenaicum)
Although nationally scarce, this species has long been associated with Bath where it was sold as a substitute for Asparagus (hence its name) and Keynsham. It has a particular stronghold in Cleeve Wood, which is just outside the area covered by this plan but is also found in significant numbers in Stockwood Vale. Just under one thousand plants were recorded there in 2015.
It is likely that many Keynsham residents are not aware of the significance of this flower and its local association.
Recommendation
An initiative is set up to raise awareness of Bath Asparagus and establish as many locations as possible where it grows in and around Keynsham in order to provide longterm protection.
Hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus)
Hedgehogs exist in several parts of the Keynsham area but due to their nocturnal preference are more often seen in the road after being run over by a vehicle. They like gardens but rarely inhabit just a single one. They often have difficulty in moving from one garden to another as fences tend to reach the ground and have insufficient gaps for Hedgehogs to use.
Recommendation
When new houses are planned any fences should provide a small gap big enough for Hedgehogs. Similarly, any significant planning applications should insist on the same provision whenever practical.
Himalayan Balsam (Impatiens grandulifera)
An attractive plant but one that should not be in the UK as it is native to India but has established itself across the country. It likes riverbanks and damp areas but is sometimes found in other habitat types. It can grow in big clumps up to three metres tall where it prevents native plants from flourishing. It also leads to the erosion of riverbanks when it dies back in autumn. It occurs in several sites in the Keynsham area with particular strongholds at the lower end of the River Chew and by the path that runs from the lower end of Durley Lane to the Humpty Tumps.
In 2007 Bath and North-east Somerset Council asked BRERC to undertake a survey of Keynsham Memorial Park (ref ST66-0-135-001). The report recommended that the plant should be managed in accordance with the advice from the Environment Agency, but this has not happened. Control is reasonably straightforward as it can be pulled or cut back at ground level; however, this has to take place before seeds form – June is preferable.
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Recommendation
Work parties involving landowners, council staff and members of the public should be arranged to deal with the problem.
Other Species (not protected)
A range of species, including traditionally common species of birds, bats and invertebrates are particularly vulnerable, as a result of the rapidity of urban change alongside wider environmental change in Keynsham. Sites of Nature Conservation Interest and Regionally Important Geological Sites recorded in the Local Plan have some protection within the planning process.
Keynsham has also been known to have had a visit from an escaped Capybara – who have travelled along the river from Pensford and a Scottish seal via the River Chew and River Avon. Otters regularly visiting the River Chew in the Keynsham Memorial Park.
10. Other Local Designations and Strategies
Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs): apply to large parts of Keynsham because of blanket TPOs made during development.
Bath and North East Somerset Tree Management Policy:
The Local Authority manages approximately 35,000 trees growing on council-owned land, such as parks, allotments, the highway, cemeteries and car parks. They also manage over 100 hectares of woodland and implement new tree planting schemes.
They cannot help with any enquiries about trees on private land unless the vegetation is creating a risk to a highway.
They inspect their trees regularly and they only prune or fell trees where necessary and for sound arboricultural/risk management reasons. They will plant more trees than they fell each year, and they prioritise tree pruning actions that resolve safety issues over perceived nuisances.
Keynsham Nature Action Plan process will support an increase in tree cover by prioritising tree planting.
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11. Resource Requirements
• Financial Resources:
An action plan will be developed which will include proposals for funding. The Town Council will provide core resource to support the development of the plans, and general project costs, and will seek funding from CIL money, Section 106 monies, business grants and sponsorship, external grants and fundraising by local groups.
• Human Resources:
Initially, the plan ongoing actions will be undertaken by key Town Council Officers with assistance for Keynsham Town Councillors, especially those that sit on the Environment and Sustainability Committee of the Council. Of course, there will be a requirement for support from relevant local community organisations e.g. Keynsham Wildlife Trust, Keynsham In Bloom etc together with experts to achieve a successful implementation of the plan.
A key challenge for the Keynsham Town Council Nature Action Plan will be resourcing expertise to map what is present and to advise on specialized ecological actions, beyond basic improvements for wildlife and enhancements to nature. This resource challenge will be managed by adopting an opportunity creation approach, ensuring the basics for wildlife and nature are actioned first, to be followed in later phases by expertise in areas that require expert insight.
• Materials and Tools:
List physical resources (e.g., tree saplings, water purification equipment, awareness campaign materials).
12. Monitoring, Reporting, and Evaluation
Monitoring Framework:
1. Objectives to Monitor
Areas include:
• Biodiversity enhancement
• Habitat creation and connectivity
• Community engagement with nature
• Pollution reduction
• Climate resilience via nature-based solutions
2. Indicators and Metrics
A. Biodiversity and Habitat Quality
• Indicator: Species richness and abundance
o Metric: Number of plant, bird, and insect species recorded annually in designated areas (via citizen science or ecological surveys)
• Indicator: Protected or priority species presence
o Metric: Change in population of target species (e.g., bats, hedgehogs, pollinators)
• Indicator: Habitat quality and diversity
o Metric: Area (hectares or m²) and condition score of habitats (e.g., wildflower meadows, wetlands, woodlands)
B. Tree and Vegetation Cover
• Indicator: Tree planting and canopy cover
o Metric: Number of trees planted per year; % increase in urban tree canopy cover
• Indicator: Green corridor development
o Metric: Linear km of connected habitat or wildlife corridors established
C. Community Participation and Education
• Indicator: Public involvement in nature-based projects
o Metric: Number of volunteers / volunteer hours in conservation tasks
• Indicator: Nature-based education and outreach
o Metric: Number of events held; number of participants in nature walks/workshops
D. Water and Soil Health
• Indicator: Water quality in local rivers or ponds
o Metric: Phosphate/nitrate levels; invertebrate diversity index
• Indicator: Soil health in managed areas
o Metric: Organic matter % or baseline biodiversity index (e.g., earthworm counts)
E. Climate Resilience and Carbon Sequestration
• Indicator: Carbon capture through natural assets
o Metric: Estimated tonnes of CO₂e sequestered per year via trees, wetlands, etc.
• Indicator: Reduction in impervious surface area
o Metric: m² converted from tarmac/concrete to permeable or green surfaces
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F. Monitoring and Evaluation Process
• Frequency:
o Annual biodiversity audits (spring/summer)
o Quarterly volunteer and engagement reports
o Biannual habitat condition assessments
• Tools:
o GIS mapping for land cover change
o Citizen science apps (e.g., iNaturalist, Big Garden Birdwatch)
o Partnership with local wildlife groups and schools
• Reporting:
o Annual Nature Action Plan progress report shared publicly and reviewed by Council
o Visual dashboards to show progress on key indicators
Reporting:
To ensure transparency and ongoing engagement, the results of the Keynsham Nature Action Plan will be communicated through the following channels:
• Public Reports: Regular progress reports will be published on the Town Council website and made available in print at key community locations such as the library and community centre.
• Stakeholder Updates: Key partners, including local environmental groups, schools, and businesses, will receive quarterly email updates summarising actions taken, outcomes achieved, and upcoming priorities.
• Community Meetings: Periodic town hall or public drop-in sessions will be held to share updates, gather feedback, and involve residents in shaping future priorities.
• Social media and Newsletters: Ongoing updates, success stories, and calls to action will be shared via the Town Council’s social media platforms and monthly enewsletter.
These communication efforts aim to keep the community informed, involved, and empowered to contribute to nature recovery in Keynsham.
Evaluation Plan:
To ensure the success and continuous improvement of the Keynsham Nature Action Plan, a structured evaluation framework will be implemented. This will track progress, measure impact, and support transparency and accountability.
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A. Annual Reviews
• A formal review of progress will be conducted each year, summarising completed actions, encountered challenges, and adjustments needed for the following year.
• Reports will be shared by the Town Council and made available to the public.
B. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
The following KPIs will be used to evaluate the plan’s impact:
• Biodiversity Metrics: Increase in native species populations, number of new habitats created or restored.
• Tree Planting & Green Cover: Number of trees planted, increase in canopy cover.
• Carbon Reduction: Estimated carbon sequestration from nature-based projects.
• Community Engagement: Number of volunteers involved participation in events and consultations.
• Land Use Improvements: Area (in hectares) of land managed for nature or improved through conservation.
C. Surveys and Feedback
• Community and stakeholder surveys will be conducted biennially to gauge awareness, satisfaction, and support for the plan.
• Feedback from schools, local groups, and volunteers will be used to shape ongoing engagement strategies.
D. Environmental Monitoring
• Partner with local conservation organisations and citizen scientists to monitor wildlife, water quality, and habitat health.
• Use consistent methodologies to allow for year-on-year comparisons.
E. Mid-Term Review
• A comprehensive mid-term evaluation (e.g. after 3 years) will assess whether long-term goals are on track and recommend strategic adjustments if needed.
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F. Final Impact Assessment
• At the end of the plan’s cycle (e.g. 5 or 10 years), a full evaluation will assess cumulative outcomes, highlight successes, and provide recommendations for the next phase.
13. Risk Management and Challenges
Potential Risks
A. Funding Limitations
o Challenge: Insufficient or inconsistent funding may delay or restrict key actions such as habitat restoration, infrastructure improvements, or staffing.
o Mitigation: Diversify funding sources through grants, partnerships, and community fundraising; include Nature Action priorities in the Council’s budget planning.
B. Political and Policy Barriers
o Challenge: Changes in local or national policy, or lack of political will, could affect implementation.
o Mitigation: Maintain cross-party support by demonstrating broad community benefits and aligning the plan with existing environmental legislation and strategic goals.
C. Lack of Community Engagement
o Challenge: Limited public awareness or participation can reduce the effectiveness and sustainability of the plan.
o Mitigation: Launch inclusive awareness campaigns, involve local schools, and support volunteer opportunities to encourage widespread community ownership.
D. Stakeholder Misalignment
o Challenge: Differing priorities among landowners, developers, or partners may cause delays or conflict.
o Mitigation: Foster early and ongoing collaboration through transparent communication, shared goals, and clear benefit-sharing mechanisms.
E. Reduction of open spaces
o Challenge: The building of a large number of houses will reduce the space available for wildlife.
o Mitigation: Statistical measurement of progress on this plan to be taken into account where figures are produced.
F. Environmental Uncertainty
o Challenge: Climate change impacts (e.g., extreme weather) or unforeseen ecological issues may disrupt projects. Tree planting could be at extreme risk in hot, dry summers.
o Mitigation: Design adaptive management strategies and build resilience into all interventions, such as using native species and enhancing habitat connectivity.
G. Monitoring and Capacity Issues
o Challenge: Inadequate resources for long-term monitoring and evaluation may hinder progress tracking and accountability.
o Mitigation: Leverage citizen science, collaborate with local environmental groups, and ensure monitoring is built into the project timeline and budget.
14. Conclusion
For Keynsham Town Council, the long-term environmental benefits of implementing a Nature Action Plan are profound and far-reaching. By actively restoring and enhancing local green spaces, protecting native biodiversity, and encouraging sustainable development, the plan lays the foundation for a healthier and more resilient local environment. Over time, this leads to improved air and water quality, increased carbon capture through tree planting and habitat restoration, and stronger natural flood defences along the River Chew and surrounding areas.
The plan also supports local wildlife creating interconnected habitats, helping to reverse species decline. Importantly, these actions contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation, while also enriching community well-being through access to thriving natural spaces. In the long term, Keynsham will benefit from a more sustainable, biodiverse, and climate-resilient landscape that supports both people and nature.
“Let’s act now to protect what we love. By working together through our Nature Action Plan, we can secure a greener, healthier, and more resilient Keynsham not just for today, but for generations to come. Nature needs us, and we need nature. The time to act is now for our wildlife, for our community, and for our future.”
APPENDICES
Appendix 1: Images of Keynsham Town Council Owned and Leased Land
Appendix 1 a - The Paddock
Appendix 1 b – Fox and Hounds Lane Conservation Area
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Appendix 1 c – Keynsham Cemetery
Appendix 1 d – Manor Road Playing Fields
1 e – Teviot Play Area
Appendix
Appendix 1 f – Downfields Play Area
Appendix 1 g – Kelston Play Area
Appendix 1 h – Park Road Play Area and Green Space
Appendix 1 i – Holmoak Play Area and Green Space
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Appendix 1 j – Upper Memorial Play Area
Appendix 1 k - Lower Memorial Play Area
Appendix 1 l - Keynsham Allotments – Park Road
Appendix 2: B&NES Council Open Green Spaces in Keynsham – map
Appendix 3 B&NES Council Verges in Keynsham – map
Appendix 4 Keynsham Green Spaces information taken from the B&NES Council Green Space Strategy 2015 - 2029
Fox and Hounds Lane
Where is it? Off Bath Road. Grid reference ST657683
What is it?
A nature reserve on hillside with a pond. Owned by Keynsham Town Council who are in the process of opening up access to the community. Has a Friends Group to help with maintenance. The following have been found at this site, Yellow Shell, Cinnabar and Beautiful Demoiselle.
Ecological value
• Ivy Broomrape
• Mixed woodland
Threats
• Vandalism
• Loss of Friends Group
Keynsham Memorial Park
Where is it? East of the High Street/Temple Street. Split into three sections – north-east of the bypass, south-west of the bypass and east of Temple Street. Central grid reference ST656686.
What is it?
A site of Nature Conservation Importance
A public park within the town’s conservation area. Includes a mixture of facilities including a children’s playground, skate park, exercise equipment, cafe and bandstand. Keynsham Music Festival takes place here, attracting 10,000 people. It was awarded Green Flag status in 2008/2009 and again in 2009/2010. Principally mowed grassland.
Ecological value
• Specimen trees
• River Chew a short way before it enters the River Avon
• Wildlife pond
• Rookery (35 nests in 2016)
• Grey Wagtails breeding
• Moorhens breeding
• Mallard breeding and over occasionally large number in the winter
• Great Spotted Woodpeckers breeding
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• Dippers breeding occasionally
• Water Rail overwintering for several years
• Haven for duck when there is extreme frost in the open countryside
• Visited by Kingfishers and Grey Herons
• Various species of dragonfly and damsel fly
Threats
• Himalayan Balsam, a non-native invasive species that is beginning to dominate the river banks
• Rats that could affect breeding birds
• Mink that could affect breeding birds
• Vandalism and drug usage
• Pollution in the pond
River Chew, south of Memorial Park
Where is it? Between the Memorial Park and Chewton Place. Central grid reference ST656674.
What is it?
A site of Nature Conservation Importance
A river with footpaths on both sides, open banks and some trees including old Willows. Fields used for grazing cattle.
Ecological value
• Meandering non-navigable river
• Rookery
• Water vegetation
• Moorhen
• Mallard
• Siskins and Redpoll in winter
• Barn Owls breeding nearby
• Visited by Kingfishers and Grey Herons
• Banded Demoiselle
• Significant numbers of Scarce Chasers and White-legged Damselflies (nationally scarce)
• Ravens nesting a few metres to the south
Threats
• Himalayan Balsam, a non-native invasive species that is beginning to dominate the river banks
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• Accumulation of rubbish that floats downstream and caught by fallen trees
Wood to west of Chewton Place
Where is it? Chewton Place. Grid reference ST653669
What is it?
Priority habitat (Deciduous woodland)
Ecological value
• Rookery
• Mature Oak and Ash
• Bluebells
Threats
• None known
River Avon, east of the Lock keeper Public House
Where is it? Between the Lock keeper Public House and Avon Valley Railway Riverside station. Central grid reference ST670688. It is on the border between Bath and North- east Somerset and South Gloucestershire.
What is it?
A site of Nature Conservation Importance (inland water) and floodplain grazing marsh.
A navigable river with a footpath on the north side, farmland and Avon Valley Wildlife Park on the south side. Open banks and some trees including old Willows. Floods regularly after heavy rainfall particularly on the north side (South Gloucestershire).
Ecological value
• Small Teasel (scarce in the Bristol region, but often found here)
• Greater Dodder (nationally scarce, only found on the banks of the River Avon in the Bristol region)
• Other water vegetation including Arrowhead
• Moorhens, particularly in Avon Valley Adventure Park
• Mallard, breeding and significant numbers in winter
• Winter wildfowl including Goosander. Good variety in freezing conditions
• Breeding Great Spotted Woodpeckers
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• Siskins and Redpoll in winter
• Visited by Kingfishers and Grey Herons
• Huge numbers of Banded Demoiselle
• Significant numbers of Scarce Chasers and White-legged Damselflies (nationally scarce)
• A good variety of other insects including Dark Bush-cricket Threats
• Himalayan Balsam, a non-native invasive species that is beginning to dominate the river banks
• Accumulation of rubbish that floats downstream and caught by fallen trees, particularly after flooding
• Increase in boating traffic, particularly if a new marina were to be built in the area
Manor Road Community Woodland
Where is it?
East of Keynsham on both sides of Manor Road. Central grid reference ST666673.
What is it?
A Local Nature Reserve.
Owned by B&NES council, supported by a Friends Group.
Planting of trees commenced in 1993 as part of the Forest of Avon and are slowly maturing. It includes an open meadow and a pond.
Ecological value
• Young trees, edged by mature ones
• Rookery (25 nests in 2016)
• Frogs, Toads and Newts in the pond
• Azure Damselflies
• Beautiful Demoiselles
• A good variety of other Odanata
• Water vegetation including Lesser Water-parsnip
• Breeding Blackcaps, Chiffchaffs and Whitethroat
• Siskins and Redpoll in winter
• A good number of butterflies including Marbled White, Small Copper, Large and Essex Skipper
• Nemophora metallica (a scarce moth in the Bristol region)
• A good variety of other insects including Dark Bush-cricket
• Has hosted Waxwings and Hawfinches
Threats
• Increasing footfall and associated disturbance from proposed housing developments to the immediate north and west
• Vandalism, particularly during the summer months
• Neglecting of the pond (in poor condition in 2025)
Pixash Lane boggy patch
Where is it? North of Pixash Lane. Grid reference ST666685
What is it?
A site of Nature Conservation Importance
A small wet area, particularly so in winter
Ecological value
• Bog loving plants including Marsh Marigold, Yellow Iris and Purple Loosestrife
• Butterflies including Marbled White
• Overwintering Snipe (occasionally more than 30)
• Overwintering Jack Snipe (one or two)
• Occasional Reed Bunting
Threats
• Being ploughed up and/or drained for commercial farmland
• Pollution caused by run off from the road
Broad Mead and land adjoining Keynsham Water Recycling Centre
Where is it?
Broadmead Lane. Land reaches the River Avon boat moorings. Central grid reference ST665689
What is it?
Post Industrial site and farmland. Priority habitat (floodplain grazing marsh). Partly flooded over after heavy rain.
Large nettle beds.
Ecological value
• Natural floodplain
• Gulls, wading birds and duck
• Hedgerows
• Badger, Fox, Roe deer, Rabbit
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• Overwintering Chiffchaffs and occasional Siberian Chiffchaffs
• Butterflies including Peacock, Small Tortoiseshell, Orange Tip and Speckled Wood
Threats
• Japanese Knotweed, a non-native invasive species that is difficult to destroy
• Commercial development
• Pollution leaking from adjoining refuse plant
• Development of a large marina (refused in 2017 following appeal)
Abbotts Wood
Where is it? South end of Charlton Road, off Holmoak Road. Central grid reference ST644673
What is it?
Priority habitat (deciduous woodland). Community Forest, Woods on your Doorstep
A small woodland, planted in 1994-1996 as part of the Forest of Avon
Ecological value
• Ash, Field Maple and Hazel
• Veteran Oaks
• Rides and glades
• Hedgerows
Threats
• Waterlogging, particularly after heavy rain
• Housing development to the south and east that will increase footfall and degrade the habitat
Somerdale Hams
Where is it? Somerdale. Central grid reference ST653697
What is it?
Priority habitat (floodplain grazing marsh and deciduous woodland). A flat area that includes sports pitches. Completely flooded over after heavy rain.
• Many invertebrates including dragonflies, damselflies, shield bugs and ladybirds
Threats
• Further development unlikely due to obvious flood risk
• Himalayan Balsam, a non-native invasive species that is beginning to dominate the river banks
Stockwood Vale
Where is it? Stockwood Vale. Grid references ST6367, ST6368, ST6468
What is it?
To the south of the A4 from Hicks Gate, Stockwood Vale is an area of limestone with clay and shales on the valley sides and mudstones on the valley floor. The area is dominated by two narrow tributary valleys with mainly grassland in the form of angular and irregular fields on the plateaux, eventually sloping up towards Queen Charlton. Boundaries are generally marked by unclipped hedges and tree lines, with woodland on upper slopes. The valleys have a tranquil character and are heavily wooded along the banks of the streams. The landscape generally has an open character with views contained by ridges, which helps to prevent a sense of encroachment of development across the narrow Green Belt gap between Stockwood, Bristol and Keynsham.
Ecological value
The following flora and fauna have been identified: cowslip, cut-leaved crane's-bill, Goldilocks buttercup, woolly thistle and bird's-foot trefoil are amongst the flowers to be found, and numerous butterflies include meadow brown, marbled white and large skipper. The woodlands are home to bluebell, yellow archangel and the rare Bath asparagus. Birds including whitethroats, buzzards, kestrels and sparrowhawks are often seen. Mammals include badgers, foxes, roe deer and muntjac deer. Two farm ponds are homes for frogs, toads and newts.
Threats
• Grazing and spraying of Bath Asparagus
• Invasive Blackthorn that is spreading over parts of the valley
Humpy Tumps and adjoining woodland to south
Where is it?
North-east of Hicks Gate. Grid reference ST645698
What is it?
Historically, the Humpty Tumps is probably the most important wildlife site in the Keynsham area with a number of scarce flower species. A woodland with dense undergrowth surrounds a small stream some of which is inaccessible.
Priority habitat (lowland dry acid grassland) and post-industrial site. Rough ground with mounds of earth.
Ecological value
• Butterflies including Common Blue and Speckled Wood
• Rare and locally scarce plants including Thorn-apple, Woolly Thistle, Broom and Musk Mallow and Apple of Peru
• Grasshoppers and Crickets
• Gorse Shield bug
• Mature trees including Ash, Oak and Horse Chestnut
Threats
• Creeping Thistle
• Himalayan Balsam, a non-native invasive species Development spill from adjoining industry
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Bickley Wood
Where is it? Viewed from Keynsham - North-west of Hicks Gate. Grid reference ST642701
Difficult to assess due to access that is not straightforward
• Mature trees including Oak, Ash, Hawthorn and Elder
Threats
• Himalayan Balsam, a non-native invasive species, particularly by the River Avon
Wood in Durley Lane
Where is it? Durley Lane. Grid reference ST645693
What is it?
Priority habitat (Deciduous woodland)
Ecological value
• Not known
Threats
• None known
Woodland to the north of Broadlands School
Where is it? South of the west end of Bristol Road. Grid reference ST647689
What is it?
Priority habitat (Deciduous woodland)
Ecological value
• Not known
Threats
• Not known
Woods by former Fry’s railway line and at the confluence of the Rivers Chew and Avon
Where is it? East of Somerdale and near Keynsham station. Grid references ST656689 to ST657690
What is it?
Priority habitat (Deciduous woodland)
Ground cover dominated by Ivy and Herb Bennet
Ecological value
• Not known
Threats
• Himalayan Balsam, a non-native invasive species
Where is it? Somerdale. Grid reference ST656689
What is it?
Regionally Important Geological site
Ecological value
• Mature trees, Speckled Wood and other butterflies
Threats
• Development of access to Somerdale area
• Himalayan Balsam
Wood to the north-east of Somerdale
Where is it?
North-east of St Monica’s. Grid reference ST659697
What is it?
Priority habitat (Deciduous woodland)
Shrub
Ecological value
• Not known
Threats
• This area has already been allocated for housing so has been lost for ecological purposes. However, the area to the north has been planted with trees which will mature over the course of time. The developers have committed to creating a wetland to the north-west of the new woodland. A threat is the establishment of an organisation who will take on the ongoing maintenance of these areas.
Wood off the north- east of Broadmead roundabout
Where is it?
Broadmead roundabout, adjacent to the recycling plant. Grid reference ST666682
What is it?
Priority habitat (Deciduous woodland)
Ecological value
• Not known
Threats
• Understory totally dominated by Ivy so that other woodland plants cannot thrive
• Development
Woods at Uplands
Where is it? West side of Wellsway. Grid references ST659661 and ST657664
What is it?
Priority habitat (Deciduous woodland)
On a steep west facing hillside. Dominated by Ash and with a mainly Ivy understory.
Ecological value
• Buzzard
• Bullfinch
• Badger
• Pheasant feeding stations
• Spurge-laurel
• Oak, Beech, Hazel, Hawthorn and Field Maple
Threats
• None known
Land between Steel Mills and St Clement’s Road
Where is it?
St Clement’s Road. Grid reference ST656678
What is it?
Deciduous Woodland
Broad-leaved Woodland
Ecological value
• Rooks nesting
Threats
• Not known
Old
Where is it?
What is it?
A housing development built in the 1970’s comprising 51 houses and 12 flats. A major feature of the development are the extensive community gardens that are found at the front, centre and rear of Old Vicarage Green.
Ecological value
The gardens have been awarded Best Community Garden by Keynsham In Bloom on many occasions. In addition, the RHS have awarded the gardens a Level 5 Outstanding Award as part of their ‘It’s Your Neighbourhood’ Awards. Numerous mature trees. Birds, wildlife (squirrels, foxes and hedgehogs in evidence). Many mature shrubs which encourage insect life.
Threats
Green space close to busy town centre
Where is it? Located 51°24'38.0"N 2°30'30.3"W in Keynsham South, just off Queens Road adjacent to the shopping parade
What is it? A large green space with an enclosed play area. The majority of the land belongs to B&NES Council, the play area is leased from the Local Authority by Keynsham Town Council and the remainder of the land is owned by Curo Housing Association. The land owned by the housing association is due to be landscaped as part of the redevelopment of the Tintagel Close estate.
Ecological value: Large expanses on grasses providing a habitat for pollinators. Various trees offering possible nesting sites for birds and a feeding ground for the large population of House Martins that build their nest under the eaves of the flats above the shopping parade. Areas of grass not mowed to allow for wildflower and grassland growth.
Threats: Although a designated space, the land could possibly be redeveloped for further housing depending on future changes to Central Government housing policies.
Where is it? Located next to St. John’s Church on Station Road with a pedestrian access off The Park and through the parking area of the old vicarage. 51°24'38.0"N 2°30'30.3"W
What is it? Paddock land in the ownership of the Town Council. Triangular land that is bordered by stone walls some of which is believed to part of the old Keynsham Abbey
Ecological value:
The land was abundant with Primroses in the spring (see image) below. There are numerous trees including a monkey puzzle tree. The old, listed Hay Cart building has remained untouched for years
Pyramidal orchids
Threats
No real threats as the land is now in the ownership of the Town Council and the land will be used in a way to preserve the fauna and flora.
Downfields Play Area Green Space
Where is it? Sited off Charlton Road, at the end of Cleeve close cul- de-sac - 51°24'47.9"N 2°30'38.0"W
What is it? Play area and green space. The play area is leased by Keynsham Town Council from Bath and North East Somerset Council, and the green space is in the ownership of Curo Housing Association. The green space is flanked on each side by housing. One edge is completely hedged with some mature trees in one corner of the green space. The play area has recently been upgraded with a pondlife theme.
Ecological value: The trees and hedgerows provide a habitat for nesting birds and insect life. Located away from the main roads and at the end of a quiet cul- de-sac the area is visited by numerous species of birds.
Threats: This is a designated green space but there is always the fear of infill housing as the Government housing requirement figures increase.
Where is it? 51°24'35.0"N 2°30'02.2"W - Located off Park Road, accessed by a narrow lane between number 109 and 111 Park Road
What is it? Green recreational space and play area. The land is leased from Bath and North East Somerset Council by Keynsham Town Council. The area is flanked on all sides by gardens belonging to nearby properties. Some of these gardens are extensive in length.
Ecological value
Much of the perimeter is either hedging or fenced. The boundary looking very green. Part of the play area is shaded by some very mature growing in neighbouring gardens. Located a good 30 metres from the main road the area is a peaceful haven for flora and fauna to survive. Trees are perfect nesting sites.
Threats This is a designated green space but there is always the fear of infill housing as the Government housing requirement figures increase.
Holmoak Play Area & Green Space
Where is it? 51°24'17.8"N 2°30'52.2"W – Located on one of Keynsham’s newer estates, Bilbie Green Near Linnet Way and just of the main Charlton Road in Keynsham South.
What is it? Green space and play area. This is one of the largest green space areas that Keynsham Town Council maintains, measuring just over 6778 m2
This green space is edged on three sides by local housing. On the development of this area some small trees were planted by the developer, and these are starting to mature. Located just west of the Abbotts Wood, which is abundant with bird life, the streets in the area were named after birds that once frequented the area e.g. Linnet Way, Woodpecker Close etc.
Ecological value This green space is well used by the community and within a busy estate. The small trees provide habitats for insect life and possibly birds. There is room for scope within this green space for the introduction of a wildlife flower area which could be a project for the Council in the future. Also, additional tree planting could be considered.
Threats: Anti-social behaviour can be a problem in this area and discarded litter including discarded Helium capsules could be a threat to wildlife.
Where is it?
Winscombe Close
What is it?
Partial Play/Partial Open Space
With residents living close by
Enclosed with hedging and gates
Ecological value
Small birds - as some neighbours do leave food for them
Threats
Vandalism often at weekends and dark evenings.
Rats and mice attracted to food
Where is it? Situated in a quiet cul- de-sac, in Keynsham East. Adjacent to B&NES owned Chalfield Close play area 51°23'56.2"N 2°29'12.0"W
What is it? Land designated as a small nature reserve
Chalfield
Ecological value: Well overgrown and not fully accessible to humans this is a secluded haven for wildlife. Assumed to be a habitat for many nesting birds, numerous insects and smaller mammals
Threats: Although designated as a green space which protects the site to an extent there could be the possibility for a site for a couple of houses to be developed, if the local authority does not meet its housing target.
Conway Green
Where is it? A cultivated square on the Chandag Estate, surrounded by bungalows on all four sides, with two road exits on to Medway Drive and Waveney Road respectively.
What is it? A grassed rectangle containing three large mature, sycamore trees, one of a coppered variety, together with four recently planted trees, one native cherry and three hawthorns.
Ecological value: The three mature trees give shelter and food for a wide variety of bird and insects. This has been enhanced by the addition of the new trees, so the ecology will increase over time. There are the usual variety of resident small and tree loving birds, these include sparrows, great tits, blue tits, robins, dunnocks, goldfinches and chaffinches. Medium sized birds include blackbirds, thrushes and large colonies of starlings in the winter together very rarely with large numbers of waxwings. There are most of the crow family and in winter, herring gulls visit. Sparrowhawks have been seen on the site, and Red Kites and Buzzards have flown over it. The jewel in the crown is a barn owl that according to one resident regularly hunts the patch. Mammals include, badgers, foxes, hedgehogs and bats, together with some smaller rodents which probably explains the predators. In recent years B&NES has left the grass to grow by the hawthorns and cherry and don’t mow the rest of the area with the regularity of before, this means that wild flowers are beginning to have a foothold on the grass and this will enrich the area going forward.
Threats: This is a very stable area, well established. The residents tend to be older than the average, some don’t like the leaves in the Autumn which tend to be blown into the north east
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corner of the Conway Green. In recent years a gardener has collected the leaves which has pleased the residents, gathering many large bags. There are no public seats with the approval of the occupiers as they believe this might lead to anti-social behaviour which is extremely rare at present.
Occasional rat problems.
Wellsway playing fields.
Where is it?
Wellsway School Garden – far end of Mendip Tennis Courts, behind red brick wall.
What is it?
An area containing a wide range of different habitats to encourage high biodiversity of native plants and animal species.
List any awards of environmental significance
Ninevah Trust Grant - £3500 in 2019 – new fencing, dipping platforms, etc
KTC Grant - £400 in 2022 – New Garden tools
Ecological value
Large pond – superb range of pond invertebrates plus at least 3 species of amphibians
Insect friendly planting/ bug hotels/ bird next boxes
Areas of brambles / nettles / compost heap / Buddleia / Ivy Broomrape / Coppiced Hazel / mature fruit trees / Hornbeam / Alder / Elder / Yew / Persian Ironwood / Bay / Cypress / Beech
Hedge
Threats
Natural succession:
Tree canopy closing in. Trees need pollarding to keep a high light level for ground plants.
Brambles, nettles, bindweed. All excellent in moderation but need regular control.
Erosion / over-trampling by Forest School students.
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Where is it?
Park Road (immediately beyond No.193)
Keynsham
BS31 1AU
What is it?
Keynsham Allotment Association
The 2.25-acre site has been used for allotments for over 50 years and comprises 115 plots of approximately 150 square yards (125 sq. m) each, 13 of which are divided into two for ease of management. The site is used by Keynsham residents for growing a wide variety of fruit, vegetables, herbs and flowers and is managed on a not-for-profit basis by an elected committee of volunteers who work closely with, and are supported by, Keynsham Town Council. The site has secure gates, two small carparks, a composting toilet, a plumbed in water supply, a free to use woodchip pile (courtesy of local tree surgeons), community sheds containing tools and equipment for the free use of plot holders and operates a Crop Drop scheme whereby surplus produce is donated to two local community organisations (see photo of one of our cabinets below).
We have a website:
Keynsham Allotment Association - Keynsham Allotment Association
e-voice.org.uk
List any awards of environmental significance
Following a Level 4 “Thriving” award in 2022, the site has been awarded Level 5 “Outstanding” (the highest rating) in the South West Britain in Bloom RHS assessment for the last two years.
Ecological value
Edged by trees and bushes on two borders, the site is a haven for wildlife including nesting birds, hedgehogs, foxes, field mice, badgers, squirrels and slow worms to name but a few. With this in mind, the surrounding trees and hedges are managed sympathetically.
Many of the plots have loose stone walls, wood piles and “bug hotels” which provide shelter for hibernating wildlife, and plot holders grow pollinator friendly plants to encourage butterflies, bees and other pollinating insects. Some plot holders operate a “no dig” policy to further increase biodiversity and maintain soil health.
The environment benefits as food miles are virtually eliminated with produce being grown and consumed locally using organic fertilisers in favour of chemicals, with compost bins being used to recycle surplus green waste.
Outdoor activities, including gardening, are known to enhance and improve mental and physical wellbeing and many members comment on how much they also enjoy the social side of sharing the site with likeminded people. Weather permitting, several “Coffee at the Plot” events are held during the spring/summer months as an opportunity for members to get together and share ideas, discuss any issues etc. Members also share surplus plants, seeds and seedlings with each other.
Threats
Vandalism, arson and theft (all of which have been experienced in recent years).
Badgers - which are welcome but can be quite destructive treating the site as an All You Can Eat Buffet! Nonviolent crop defences are put in place to encourage the local badgers to eat more “naturally”.
The extremes of weather caused by climate change and global warming making growing conditions quite challenging.
Housebuilding - the site is on the current outskirts of Keynsham and is large enough to attract the attention of developers. The land is privately owned but is made available for use as allotments through Keynsham Town Council.
Land facing Bristol Road
Where is it? Located just off the busy A 4175 Bristol Road - 51°25'05.2"N 2°30'08.3"W
What is it? Green verge and space edging road. Owned and maintained by Curo Housing Association.
Ecological value: Some very mature trees providing habitats for nesting birds and good environments for insects. A good green barrier between the road and social housing close by.
Threats: Close to a busy road, air quality and pollution are an issue.
Land behind Trescothick Close
Where is it? Land behind Trescothick Close off the A4175 Bristol Road and close to Pool Barton - 51°25'09.4"N 2°30'10.7"W
What is it? Large green field approximately 33290 m2 owned by a developer. A good 75% of the land is within a flood zone and is known for being boggy and wet in places at times of heavy rain.
Ecological value: A field that has been undisturbed for many years apart from the occasional walker on the public footpaths and traverse the same. Until recently the land has been left quite wild with tall grass and unmaintained hedges and trees. Due to it being undisturbed until recent maintenance works occurred (grass cutting and bramble
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clearance) the land has been left to nature with an abundant habitat for nesting and a good source of food for wildlife.
Threats: The threat of housing is not so much an issue on this site due to the flooding risk. However, a green space such as this could subject to other ideas for use.
Strip of land near St. Francis Road from St. Ladoc
Where is it? 51°24'58.2"N 2°30'22.3"W
What is it? Highways grass verge
Ecological value: Minimal – plants /weeds that feed pollinators
Threat: None apparent
Oat grass
Ragwort
Wellsway Green Team - School Conservation Area
Where is it?
Wellsway School Garden, far end of Mendip Tennis Courts, behind red brick wall.
What is it?
An area containing a wide range of different habitats, to encourage high biodiversity of native plants and animal species.
List any awards of environmental significance:
1 - Ninevah Trust Grant - £3500, 2019? New fencing, dipping platforms, etc
2 - KTC Grant - £400? 2022. New garden tools
Ecological value
Large Pond – superb range of pond invertebrates, plus at least 3 species of amphibians.
Insect friendly planting/ bug hotels/ bird next boxes.
Areas of brambles/ nettles / compost heap / buddleia/ ivy broomrape
Trees: Coppiced Hazel, mature fruit trees, hornbeam, alder, elder, yew, persian ironwood, bay, cypress, beech hedge.
Threats
Natural succession:
1 - Tree canopy closing in. Trees need pollarding to keep a high light level for ground plants.
2 - Brambles, nettles, bindweed. All excellent in moderation but need regular control.
3 - Erosion/over-trampling by Forest School students.
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Two
Where is it? 51°24'33.8"N 2°28'44.0"W – the area runs parallel to the back of the school KS1 classrooms, and the school is located off Fairfield Way on the Hygge Estate of Keynsham.
What is it? The area is used as Forest School
Ecological value: All children at Two Rivers are Eco Warriors. To promote the development of self- esteem, creativity, confidence and independence in the natural world the school provides regular (usually weekly) forest school sessions to all classes.
Sustainability is a key part of the school’s curriculum and ethos. The school house groups are named after prominent environmentalists (Attenborough, Packham, Thunberg and Craig) and each year the school host an Eco Summit of local schools to promote and advocate for a green future for all.
The green space and natural environment are an important asset not only for the school but the visiting wildlife and birds. Situated near green belt and the Manor Road Woodland the biodiversity is good.
Threats: Housing that is proposed being built close by that may blocked of natural corridors for wildlife.
Albert Mill River setting
Where is it? On the River Chew, south of Keynsham Memorial Park.
What is it? It is a complex of different types of modern houses and flats which replaced an old water mill which previous occupied the site. There is clear evidence of the water mill as both the grind stones and water wheel are still to be seen, as decoration. on the site.
Ecological value: Years ago, a weir was built which diverted the river in order to power the water mill. This disrupted the flow of the river, created some faster flowing sections which are still in evidence today. Herons, kingfishers and otters have all been seen fairly regularly on site. The river has a large population of fish which include dace, chub, roach, perch and smaller fish. According to the Bristol and Avon Rivers Trust (BART), there is DNA evidence of salmon, trout and European eels at this location. The usual flora can be seen, including water lilies and other native species together with some foreign invaders like Himalayan balsam. There are mallards in numbers, moorhens and other ducks as well as a few smaller wading birds.
Threats: The major threat is another flash flood like in July 1968 where as many as 5 people died and several bridges were destroyed. Since then, various safety measures have been put in place which has reduced the risk. Pollution of the river through agriculture run off or sewage is a greater threat. There are plans to reduce some of the weirs on the river, notably in Keynsham Memorial Park, which could be a threat or a benefit.
Where is it? Avon Road, Keynsham
What is it?
Small Park in memory of Dee James, previous Chair of Keynsham In Bloom. Large flower bed, grassed area, seating area, alpine troughs, shrubs, herbaceous plants, hopscotch.
List any awards of environmental significance
In Your Neighbourhood RHS
Bee Award
South West in Bloom
Ecological value
Wildlife pond to be installed shortly. Insect hotel for bees under one compost bin. Clean water for birds and mammals. Open flowers for pollinators and provide seeds for birds. Rainwater butt. Three compost bins. Salvia La Luna has been added this year as being very bee friendly. Foxes have been seen, squirrels, small number of butterflies and now bees. Bees nesting under compost bin.
Threats
Occasionally human drug related. One busy mole.
Where is it?
Accessible by pedestrians but timed use is recorded by committee officers.
What is it?
Well used amenity. Maintenance by local group with limited membership and governing rules for fishing matches.
Ecological value
Habitat for insects / hives /also seen small mammals and bats – late evening. Also cut back overgrown foliage.
Dragonflies and damselflies, otters and mink are problematic for fishing, but otters are valuable in the wider area.
Threats
Place is well secured and closely monitored usage.
Stockwood Vale (fishing pond)
Chandos Way Park
Where is it? 51°25'11.3"N 2°29'47.8"W - It is on the corner of Chandos and Claudius Roads. It's the edge of the old and new Somerdale estate.
What is it?
It's a sloping grassed area with a bench centrally at the top of the slope surrounded on three sides by metal fences with two gates, one large and one small. One side has a 10 meter long by 2 meters high wooden fence next to a new home. The side opposite to Claudius Road has mature trees and shrubs along its full extent. One old horse chestnut remains of the Fry trees that ran along with one having been removed to allow the construction of the Chandos/Claudius junction.
It is predominantly a very well used dog exercise area.
Ecological value
It is seemingly of little ecological value due to regular grass cutting of the entire site. It could be improved, and residents might be interested in improving the diversification of plants.
Threats
The horse chestnut might drop limbs as they seem to be less looked after than previously.
Houses could be built on it and the green area lost. Locals do a good job of picking up, so that's not an issue here.
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Great Western Recycling - Woodland off Avon Mill Lane
Where is it?
Off Avon Mill Lane, opposite the Brassmill. Grid reference ST657688
What is it?
A small corner of woodland that has been untouched for many years. Recently purchased by Great Western Recycling with the intention of furthering the company’s sustainability efforts and allow them to preserve a green space within their local area, maintain a habitat for wildlife and protect a green corridor for their neighbours and the wider community. Secured by strong metal fence with a padlock.
Ecological value
Unclear in winter. Needs to be looked at in spring and summer.
Dominated by Ivy at ground level and climbing up trees. There is Ivy Broomrape in Fox and Hounds Lane, so this is worth looking for.
Threats
• Potential not reached but some Ivy has already been cut from trees.
• Ongoing maintenance will be required.
Where is it?
Off Bath Road to the south. Grid reference ST6667
What is it?
A housing development including a school. A brook meanders through the area and there are two Sustainable Drainage systems (SUDS). There are thick hedges to the east, west and south. The one on the south side is away from the nearest houses and edges on to Manor Road Community Woodland. There are three entrances to the woodland, one informal narrow footpath and two broad ones that cross a stream.
Ecological value
Mainly in the hedges. The stream may be a home to some species but would be best examined outside the winter period,
Threats
• The only identifiable threat concerns the Manor Road Community Woodland nature reserve that suffers from increased footfall from the estate. The wildlife pond in the woodland has suffered from very low water levels since the stream in the estate was controlled. Volunteers have dammed the outflow from the pond to rectify this, but the risk is that it is not a permanent solution.
Keynsham Cemetery
Where is it?
Located on Durley Hill postcode BS31 2AJ
What is it?
Cemetery land in the Green Belt situated on the site of a Roman villa
Ecological value
Place of tranquillity abundant in biodiversity. Bioblitz results 2021
Bioblitz - Keynsham Cemetery, Durley Hill. 13th April 2021 & 26th July 2021
Members of Avon Wildlife Trust, Keynsham group, supported by friends and experts in various fields, carried out a detailed survey of the wildlife in Keynsham cemetery. The results of the survey were sent to Keynsham in Bloom and form a “baseline” of species present. They are currently in the process of attempting to “rewild” certain areas of the cemetery, including creating a wildflower meadow to increase biodiversity. The results of the bioblitz were also sent to the Bristol Regional Environmental Records Centre.
The results are pleasantly surprising, given that the grass has been regularly mowed, producing a short turf which is difficult for non-grass species to colonise. A total of nearly
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200 different species of animals, plants and fungi were recorded in several different groups. Top in species richness were flowering plants, with 56 records, closely followed by moths, with 49. Most of the latter were caught in a light trap set up during the evening, with one or two also identified as caterpillars. There were two dragonfly and four butterfly species, plus 23 other insect species. Notable among these is the Common Carder Bee, Bombus pascuorum, the Woundwort Shieldbug, Eysarcoris fabricii, and Marmalade Hoverfly, Episyrphus balteatus. Eighteen bird species were recorded, from the diminutive Wren and Goldcrest to a Buzzard circling overhead. Nine mammal species were recorded, including five bat species (picked up by a remote bat detector left out from midnight to midnight). Two of these were possibly Daubenton’s bats, usually found near water, so possibly hunting over the nearby river Avon, and Leisler’s bats, aka the Lesser Noctule.
Trees (20 species), Arachnids (five species, including the Common Candy-Striped Spider, Enoplognatha ovata), ferns (three species), fungi (two species), gastropod molluscs (at least four species) and one species of lichen (Evernia - an unpolluted air indicator) complete the records.
It is worth noting that several species would have been missed, particularly grasses and other lichens, as there was no one present with sufficient expertise in these fields to identify them.
No obvious threats have been identified to the cemetery although care must be taken to ensure that ongoing maintenance takes note of the diversity of the various species that inhabit it.
Small spider edge of Columbine
Mycena sp only 2-3mm across Flower showing linyphidae
Red ants nest
7 spot ladybird
Marmalade Hoverfly
Common field grasshopper
Black Slug
Common Flesh Fly
Wolf spider
Common Carder Bee
Common Candy-Striped Spider Rose Sawfly caterpillars
Garden Spider Araneus diadematus Red Harvestman
Lichen sp?
Common Selfheal
Bolbiteaceae or Cone Cap mushroom
Sheild Bug
Sloe Bug Larva
Where is it?
Manor Road, Keynsham East
What is it?
Large playing field with four football pitches, a children’s play area, a basketball hoop and changing rooms. Some on-field parking. The ground is extremely well maintained by the Town Council’s team of groundsmen.
Ecological value
By its nature the main animals on the site are human beings!
Apart from the formal bookings by clubs using the pitches there is much informal use of the space by: -
• Families, all ages playing games
• Tag rugby
• Exercise classes
• Picnics
• Dog- walking
• Wellsway school students relaxing after exams
• People practising putting up large tents before their holidays
• Runners doing laps
The dog-walking seems very sociable for both owners and animals as they meet for a chat, and the existence of this facility does much to encourage social cohesion and good mental health giving the opportunity to be out and about in nature in a non- threatening environment at no cost and no prior arrangement needed.
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There is also the occasional unscheduled landing of a hot-air balloon!
Other wildlife is largely birds, pigeons, starlings, gulls and magpies and the wonderful trees.
Threats
This space is covenanted and so is off-limits to any developer eying it up as a prime building site.
Should there ever be suggestion of building here there would be a strong objection.
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Where is it? Just off Teviot Road - 51°24'32.2"N 2°28'58.0"W
What is it? A park with play facilities and footpaths which link to developments including the new development of the Hygge estate.
Ecological value: There are lots of trees and shrubs in this location that are homes to all sorts of wildlife. Teviot Park is close to Manor Road Woodland which is a natural habitat for plants and animals
Threats Anti-social behaviour can make the park less welcoming and unsafe for people who want to go there. This also increases maintenance costs for the Council due to repairs that need to be made in the park.
Currently, poor accessibility limits which can use the space.
Where is it? 51.408578, -2.486541 Located off Chandag Road and next door to Wellsway Academy.
What is it? A Forest School is an educational approach that takes place in natural outdoor environments, typically woodlands or forests, where children (and sometimes adults) engage in regular, hands-on learning experiences in nature.
Key Features of a Forest School:
• Child-led learning: Children choose activities that interest them, promoting independence, confidence, and creativity.
• Outdoor, all-weather sessions: Learning happens outdoors in all seasons and weathers, building resilience and adaptability.
• Focus on holistic development: Emotional, social, physical, and cognitive growth are all emphasized.
• Long-term, regular sessions: It's not just a one-off trip; true Forest School programs are ongoing, often weekly over months or years.
• Trained practitioners: Sessions are led by Forest School leaders trained in risk management, outdoor education, and child development.
Typical Activities:
• Den building
• Tool use (like whittling with knives under supervision)
• Fire lighting and campfire cooking
• Exploring, climbing, and nature walks
• Nature crafts and storytelling
• Environmental awareness and stewardship
Benefits:
• Boosts confidence and self-esteem
• Improves social and communication skills
• Encourages risk-taking in a safe environment
• Enhances physical coordination and health
• Deepens connection to nature
Origin:
The concept began in Scandinavia, particularly Denmark and Sweden, in the 1950s, and was brought to the UK in the 1990s. It has since spread globally, with each country adapting the approach to their own ecosystems and cultures.
Ecological value: Forest Schools nurture an ecological mindset while directly supporting and preserving the environments they use. They act as micro-hubs for sustainability education, local biodiversity, and nature connection all of which are crucial in addressing ecological challenges today.
Threats: no immediate threats.
Fields near Manor Road Community Woodland
Where is it?
A large field with Manor Road at its Southern edge, East of Hurn Lane with Manor Road Woodland on its western boundary and southern edge.
What is it?
A large field which is divided into two halves. The half next to Hurn Lane is pasture being grazed by 4 horses. The half next to Manor Road woodland is grown for hay.
Ecological value.
This field is vital as it serves as a buffer between the housing on Hurn Lane and Manor Road Woodland on its other three sides. Around its edge are natural hedges, mainly bramble and nettles which act as valuable habitat for nesting birds and butterflies. There are some specimen trees on the perimeter of the sight.
• Regularly used by Rabbits, Foxes, Roe Deer and Badgers. There is a small badgers set under an outhouse in a Hurn Lane garden.
• Bats are present most evenings, mainly small species though giant horseshoe bats have been seen flying parallel to Hurn Lane edge near the bramble hedges.
• Birds regularly seen in large numbers, in Autumn, Winter and Spring are Starlings, Hering Gulls, Crows, Redwings, Fieldfares, Magpies, Rooks, and Jackdaw. In lesser numbers wood pigeons and feral pigeons.
• There are a pair of nesting Buzzards resident throughout most of the year and can be seen near to or perched on the wooden fence that bisects the field.
• Pheasants can be seen during most of the year, and their call is often heard.
• Small birds are regularly seen, these include, Sparrows, Dunnocks, Robin, Wrens, Blue, Long Tailed and Great Tits. Pied Wagtails and Chaffinch are visible from
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October to March, goldfinches used to be very common but are only seen occasionally now.
• Sparrow Hawks, Kestrels, Swallows, Swifts and House Martins visit the site.
• Chiffchaffs, in summer, and Tawny Owls, in Autumn and Winter can be heard regularly in the trees round the perimeter of the site.
• Green Woodpeckers feed on the ground for insects and Greater Spotted Woodpeckers are sometimes seen on its boundary.
• Birds seen occasionally are Red Kite, Ravens, Barn Owl, Cuckoo, Grey Wagtail, Nuthatch, Waxwings in number if they come, Coal Tit, Blackcap, Black Headed Gull and Little Egret (once when the field was flooded) Threats
• Housing development is the major threat.
• Elms were once common on the southern edge; they were replaced by ash that is also at risk currently.
• There are no footpaths through the field so little chance of unwanted human behaviour.
S.E corner looking diagonally
S.E corner looking north across the field
S.E corner looking diagonally N.E West looking from Manor Road Woodland
Acknowledgment
Keynsham Town Council would like to extend its sincere thanks to all those who contributed to the development of the Keynsham Nature Action Plan 2025 – 2026. We are deeply grateful to the many stakeholders, community partners, local organisations and residents who shared their expertise, insights and passions for protecting and enhancing Keynsham’s natural environment.
Special thanks are extended to the site assessors for their detailed fieldwork and invaluable observations, which formed the foundation of this plan.
We also wish to acknowledge the Town Councillors and Officers whose guidance, commitment and collaborative spirit ensured that the visions and actions set out in this plan reflect the aspirations for the whole community.
Together, your collective efforts have created a plan that will guide Keynsham towards a more resilient, biodiverse and nature-rich future.
