A lovely spring day was chosen to make my visit to the Millennium Green. I was greeted by a glorious volume of birdsong and the hollow drumming sound of two woodpeckers
The buds on the trees were breaking out, a little later than last spring, but it was very clear that a lot of work had been carried out over the winter.
The trees affected by ash die back had been cut down and thinning of the canopy on the east boundary area had been carried out extremely well. The brush had been laid in a farrow to rot down, providing a rich larder for bird life and small mammals.
A great deal of attention had been paid to drainage around the Butterfly Meadow, where a number of natural springs are active. On the northern boundary area the storm damage and windfall had been made safe. The combination of thinning and storm damage had let a lot more light through to the woodland floor stimulating the lower flora, which exactly replicates what would happen in an untouched wild wood.
On the western boundary, the stream had suffered more erosion due to the constant wet weather period from late summer 2025 to early February this year. The seasonal pond water level is the highest it has been for many years.
The southern green area, nearest to the bridleway, is looking strong and the mixed native hedgerow is now well established and blending together.
It was very disappointing to note that the main trunk of the memorial birch tree dedicated to John Simms had not survived the vandalism from several years ago, despite efforts to repair the damage. However, all may not be lost as I noted a lower limb, below the break, is showing leaf and could still become a trunk.
In mentioning John Simm, I am reminded of all the past supporters of the Green from the very early days, who worked so hard in the late 1990s to establish the Green. Many are no longer with us, but I for one, am forever grateful for their vision. Our gratitude must also go to the team of volunteers who have picked up the baton to ensure this vital environmental asset to Ryde and Binstead continues to thrive. Let us hope that our story provides encouragement to other local and indeed national groups to succeed with other similar projects.
Ian Jefferies
Guardian of the Green
1st April 2026