MULTIPLE SPECIES OF BOTH FAUNA AND FLORA

The Ashgrove Area is rich in biodiversity with multiple species of both fauna and flora.
The abundant ancient woodlands west of Ashgrove Road include some tree clusters dating back to 1600 and hosting various oaks, beech, and yew.

These areas are enveloped by hedgerow of principal importance which are also of high ecological value. Both habitats combined are suitable for a range of protected species that include badgers, hazel dormouse, foraging/commuting bats, settled water ponds with grey crested newts, nesting birds, amphibians, invertebrates, and various reptiles (shelter and dispersal).

Bird life is prolific in these areas with watchers highlighting the presence of buzzards, red kite, tawny owl, various woodpeckers, species occupying the woodland areas (jays, sparrowhawks, chaffinches, blackcaps, blackbirds etc.) as well as those scouring the blue skies as seen from the various fields (swallows, finches and house martins).

Over 50% of the Ashgrove area is occupied by Green Belt and falls within the Kent Downs Area of Natural Beauty. These are not arbitrary designations but were constructed to protect areas that are predominantly rural in character with rich biodiversity. There are many public foot paths within these areas that provide people with the opportunity to enjoy natural habitats for recreation and pleasure.

The AARA seeks to protect and safeguard these areas from inappropriate development which will adversely impact on the biodiversity and local ecosystems damaging the rural and equestrian character of this region.