Concessionary Ride Closure Notice
Due to the exceptionally dry conditions we have experienced this autumn and up until quite recently, we have been able to keep the Concessionary Rides open for much longer than normal this year. However, conditions have deteriorated in recent weeks, so I am writing to inform you that the seasonal rides on Ashtead Common will be closing the weekend of 14th/15th of January until ground conditions improve again in the spring. The affected rides are;
• Ride 2 between Bridleway 29 and Footpath 34 near Newton Wood. Please note that the entire length of this ride will be closed because the surfaced ride behind Broadhurst now provides an east-west link between Two Bridges and Overdale.
• Ride 4 between The Common and Two Bridges (previously called Ride 5).
We aim to open the seasonal rides as soon as conditions permit, so it may be that some sections re-open sooner than others.
Shaun Waddell
Senior Ranger, Ashtead Common NNR
Estate Office
Oak Processionary Moth
Forestry Commission surveyors discovered five nests of Oak Processionary Moth caterpillars on oak trees on the Common which contractors later removed. The caterpillars produce irritant hairs that can cause itching
skin rashes and other symptoms in people and animals. If you saw any of the nests before they were removed please contact our office and tell us exactly where there were. If you see a nest please report it to us and/or the Forestry Commission.
If the Ranger Team can be of assistance please contact Mr Shaun Waddell, Senior Ranger, Ashtead Common
01372-279083
www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/citycommons
We publish here the regular update from Ashtead Common - "What's New? - Ashtead Common". Follow this link to view the pdf document.
See also the Ashtead Common web pages http://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/things-to-do/green-spaces/city-commons/ashtead-common/Pages/default.aspx
The Coal Posts on Ashtead Common
Have you ever wondered what the Coal Posts were for on Ashtead Common and in the surrounding area? Well Nick Winfield of the Epsom and Ewell History Explorer as written an article on their history and purpose. Follw this link to read this article.
http://www.epsomandewellhistoryexplorer.org.uk/CoalTaxPosts.html.