We’re delighted to announce that Matthew Arnold Field and Reserve in Boars Hill has been designated as a Local Wildlife Site, officially recognising its value as a haven for nature and wildlife in Oxford.

This is an area of lowland fen, species-rich grassland, and woodland habitats. The assessors found 17 plant species here, including Marsh Helleborine, Marsh Lousewort and Greater Bird’s-foot-trefoil. A variety of butterflies were recorded too, including marbled whites, meadow browns, ringlets and one purple hairstreak.

The assessors from the Thames Valley Environmental Records Centre commended the way we’ve managed the site in recent years. We’d like to say a huge thank you to our expert advisers, partners and all the Green Spaces volunteers including Oxford Conservation Volunteers and Abingdon Green Gym, whose efforts have made a real difference to this landscape.

Matthew Arnold Field now joins a vital network of Local Wildlife Sites across Oxfordshire. This designation is especially important as it is recognised in Local Plans, helping to ensure the site is protected for generations to come.