Martin pointed out that some recent work has been carried out along the edge of Thrupp Lake. It appears to be aimed at keeping people to the paths so that vegetation has a chance to recover and grow. At the south-west end, what looks like a hedge has been planted between the gravel path and the vehicle track to discourage people from straying off the route.
At the north-west end, a low fence now guides walkers onto a narrower route. Although there is a canopy of trees here and little currently growing beneath them, a notice explains the reason for the change:
‘Historic data shows that White Helleborine used to grow along this tree line. We’re hoping by fencing it off, this plant will start to reappear.’
The gravel path around the lakes is also more extensive than I remember and new fences have been added in places.
Meanwhile, old features from the lake’s previous life such as the old boathouse are becoming more dilapidated.
I filmed a full walk around Thrupp and Bullfield Lakes this morning using time-lapse to show just how much of the route has a gravel path. The result is like a roller-coaster ride. See
https://youtu.be/3aNWqWPfD7M
Drivers heading in and out of north Abingdon will see some changes this week as work around the Lodge Hill junction continues.
