New Year, New Nesting Season – Help Protect Our Wildlife

20 April 2026

With the arrival of a new year and the change in seasons, the central open space and reservoir are once again becoming home to nesting birds and new wildlife activity. We’ve already been lucky enough to spot beautiful species such as kingfishers, and our resident swans are returning to nest and raise their young.

These moments are a special part of life on the estate and contribute greatly to the calm, natural environment that so many residents enjoy.

As nature becomes more active in the spring months, we’d like to gently remind dog owners that even the most well-behaved dogs can unintentionally disturb wildlife. Nesting birds, particularly swans and their cygnets, are especially vulnerable at this time. Disturbance can cause stress, damage nests, or in some cases lead to abandonment altogether.

Swans, their eggs, and nests are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, and the Animal Welfare Act 2006 makes it an offence to cause suffering to any animal, including wild species. Allowing dogs off leads in areas where wildlife may be disturbed can also fall under dog-control legislation and may be reportable.

Our request to visitors

To help protect nesting birds and ensure the open spaces remain safe and enjoyable for everyone, we kindly ask that:

• Dogs are kept on leads in the central open space and around the reservoir, particularly during the nesting season.

This simple step makes a significant difference.

It’s also worth noting that as the season progresses, swans and their young may move away from nests as part of their natural development. While this can sometimes cause concern, it is often a normal and healthy part of their life cycle.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. Your support helps protect wildlife and ensures these shared spaces can be enjoyed responsibly by the whole community—now and throughout the year ahead.