Grid Ref: SK975685
Status: Site of Nature Conservation Importance (Lincolnshire Trust)
This site is an old pear orchard of approx. 1.4ha, contiguous with the Bracebridge
Old Clay Pit
SNCI. It has been designated as Critical Natural Asset for the following reasons:
1) The site represents
a good example of old (pre World War 2) orchard with larger trees
than is common in contemporary orchards. Nationally, this is one of the very few surviving
urban orchards, and supports a rich but fragile flora and fauna. Around 43% of Lincolnshire's
orchard and parkland habitat has been totally lost since 1905, and a further 27% has been
reduced in extent. This is the only example of its type in Lincoln.
2) The site is thought
to be the most northern traditional pear orchard in the British Isles and
contains a number of scarce and ancient cultivars, including Little Hessel, Catshead and
Peasgood Nonsuch. It is also probably the largest remaining standard orchard in
Lincolnshire.
3) Much recent work
has been done on bryophyte, fungi and invertebrate populations of old
parkland and orchards, suggesting that they are a critical habitat for a number of nationally
endangered species. Standing deadwood, also common in ancient orchards provides vital
habitat for bats, all species of which are considered as rare and endangered in Lincolnshire.
Further survey of the orchard for these species groups should be a priority.
4) The site is linked
to Bracebridge Old Clay Pit SNCI and provides valuable cover and green
space in an area otherwise impoverished of such interest.
Landscape Value
Together with the adjoining Bennetts Field and Old Clay Pit comprises a wooded hillside
site
which, as an extension of the Lincoln Cliff Area of Great Landscape Value designated by North
Kesteven District Council, helps to define the line of the Lincoln Edge, an essential part of the
character of the city and proposed for protection in the form of a Green Wedge. Claims have been
previously received of the presence of protected species in the vicinity.