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The Raking Pit 

Honeybee

Introduction - Statutory Duty

Under the 2021 Environment Act, public authorities (including town and parish councils) who operate in England must consider what they can do to conserve and enhance biodiversity in England.

 

Government guidance published on 17th May 2023 clarifies that, as a public authority, town and parish councils must:

  • Consider what they can do to conserve and enhance biodiversity.

  • Agree policies and specific objectives based on their consideration.

  • Act to deliver their policies and achieve their objectives.

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Biodiversity policy

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A Place for Nature and Quiet Reflection

The Raking Pit is one of Caistor St Edmund & Bixley's most valued community spaces. As well as being a peaceful place for remembrance and reflection, it provides an important habitat for a wide variety of wildlife.

The Parish Council is committed to managing the site in a way that protects its tranquil character while enhancing biodiversity. Our aim is to encourage wildlife to flourish without changing the natural appearance that makes The Raking Pit so special.

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Supporting Local Wildlife

The site contains a variety of habitats, including mature trees, native hedgerows and seasonal planting, which provide food, shelter and nesting opportunities for birds, insects and small mammals.

As part of our Biodiversity Policy, we will continue to:

  • maintain native trees, hedgerows and spring bulbs;

  • review opportunities for additional native planting where appropriate;

  • maintain bird boxes and bug hotels;

  • encourage pollinating insects such as bees, butterflies and hoverflies through wildlife-friendly planting;

  • manage vegetation sensitively, taking account of the needs of nesting birds and other wildlife wherever practicable.

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Why Biodiversity Matters

Healthy biodiversity benefits everyone. Plants, insects, birds and mammals are all part of a connected ecosystem that helps to:

  • support pollination of flowers and crops;

  • improve soil health;

  • provide habitats for wildlife;

  • increase resilience to climate change;

  • create a richer and more attractive environment for people to enjoy.

Even small areas of well-managed habitat can make an important contribution to nature recovery across the parish.

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How You Can Help

Residents and visitors can help protect The Raking Pit by:

  • respecting the peaceful nature of the site;

  • taking litter home or using litter bins where provided;

  • avoiding disturbance to wildlife and nesting birds;

  • keeping dogs under control and clearing up after them;

  • enjoying wildflowers and wildlife without picking or damaging plants.

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Looking Ahead

The Parish Council will continue to monitor the biodiversity of The Raking Pit and look for opportunities to improve habitats through appropriate planting and careful management. Small changes, carried out over time, can make a significant difference to local wildlife while ensuring The Raking Pit remains a peaceful place for remembrance, nature and quiet enjoyment for future generations.

Parish Clerk: Yvonne Wonnacott

Email us at:

clerk@cseandbparishcouncil.gov.uk

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Telephone: 01508 493134

Website Accessibility Statement

Privacy Statement

Please note that the Parish Clerk works part-time and is contracted for an average of 6 hours per week.  The preferred communication method for enquiries is email, and the Parish Clerk will endeavour to respond within 5 working days.  The office hours are Monday to Friday 9.30am - 4.00pm, excluding Bank Holidays.  Correspondence sent to the Parish Clerk may be forwarded onto the full Parish Council and/or to individual members of the Parish Council.

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