From late February to the end of August the Council is proposing to reinstate temporary protective measures around an area known as the Lammas Field where Skylarks and Meadow Pipits have historically nested and raised their young in the long grass.

The continuation of these measures, which has support from the Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, local bird protection groups and the Warwick Natural History Society, follows a sharp decline in numbers of ground nesting birds breeding in this location in recent years.

Ward Councillor and Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture and Tourism, Liam Bartlett commented:

“An evaluation of last year’s trial indicated that putting the temporary protective measures in place may have had a positive effect. Whilst this is encouraging, we do need more data to better understand the impact and see whether leaving this habitat undisturbed during the crucial nesting season encourages the birds to return in greater numbers to breed here. A full review of the impact of these measures, over multiple years, will then be possible.” 

“We want to thank the public, in particular dog owners for their continued understanding and support while the temporary barriers are in place.” 

If agreed at Cabinet next week the protective measures will be installed from 18 February and be in place until the end of August, it will cover the same area of ground as the 2021 trial.