Rambles Round Barnet Update 29th June 2019

Darlands Conservation Trust

The previous update of 20th December 2018 referred to the Trust that had been set up on 4th September 2017 by the London Borough of Barnet. The trustees included representatives of some local Residents Associations, The London Wildlife Trust and 2 local councillors. The area is described in detail in Rambles Round Barnet Volume 2 Walk 6.

Since that time, a great deal of hard work and careful planning has gone into an assessment of the present state of the Darlands Nature Reserve. A management plan is in place to ensure that it will remain a peaceful area to visit but with signposted footpaths that can be safely negotiated throughout the year.

The best thing to do is visit their website using the heading shown above. Among the many interesting photographs are 3 showing Copped Hall before its demolition in 1929. The first public meeting of the Trust took place in Totteridge Village Hall on Thursday 20th June. The Trustees had set up some clear displays of maps, photos and accounts of the project and must have been gratified to see the large hall full of visitors that evening.

I look forward to reporting on the work being done in the Reserve by the Conservation Trust. They are anxious to preserve the charm of the area and, at the same time, make it more accessible to walkers and nature lovers.

Local ramblers are probably familiar with the Northaw Great Wood Reserve which is a relatively short drive from Barnet. It is a wonderful example of a sensitively managed area of woodland with a Visitors’ Centre and waymarked footpaths. Just go to ‘Friends of Northaw Great Wood’ for comprehensive information about its location, history and natural features for the rambler to enjoy.

Owen Jones.