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| Higham Ferrers Pocket Park |
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| Riverside Park, or The Wharf, is a 7 acre meadow situated next to the river Nene on the north-western edge of Higham Ferrers and a lake area of former gravel workings, which are of considerable wildlife value. The site also offers a well-developed butterfly garden, ponds and wetland habitats. Riverside Park is easily accessible to residents from nearby housing and schools and a footbridge links it to the adjacent Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) wetland. |
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| Access Point |
| The bottom of Wharf Road. |
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| Rights of Way |
| VC19, VC13, VC11 (UE2 and UE24 from Irthlingborough). The Nene Way runs through the site. |
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| Suitability |
| Access for all in part. |
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| History |
| The former grazing land running down to the River Nene was acquired to prevent it being developed. It had been grazed mainly by cattle and horses and was relatively unimproved. Existing planting was enhanced by further planting of trees and shrubs and informal footpaths laid out throughout the site. Small ponds and bog areas were developed. The former gravel working, which are part of the Site of Special Scientific Interest, cut off from the rest of the A45 Higham Ferrers by-pass, were taken on a lease from Northamptonshire County Council in 1987 and became part of the Riverside Park, managed by Higham Ferrers Riverside Park Anglers. |
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| Management Objectives |
| The grassland by the river is managed as a traditional meadow with an annual haymaking event in late summer. Many Northamptonshire trees have been planted to increase the biodiversity of the site and make it more pleasant for those seeking peaceful recreation. A butterfly garden has been laid out which attracts many species. The ponds are managed to support amphibians, as is the riverside habitat. The lake area is managed by Higham Ferrers Riverside Park Anglers and is used by local anglers. |
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| Special Wildlife |
| Ragged Robin, Lady's Smock, Marsh Marigold, Alder, Common Tern, Grass Snake. |
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| Contact Details |
| For more information contact David Linnell on 01933 312 075. |
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| Established : 1985 | |
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| Size :
23.65 acres/9.57 hectares. | |
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| Location :
Higham Ferrers Map | |
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| District/Borough :
East Northamptonshire | |
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| Grid Reference :
Landranger Series No. 153 SP953688. | |
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| Owned By :
East Northamptonshire Council and leased to Higham Ferrers Town Council. | |
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| Managed By :
Higham Ferrers and Rushden Conservation Group. | |
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| Partners :
Higham Ferrers Town Council, Northamptonshire County Council. | |
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| Marsh Marigold | |
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