Forder Valley is a Local Nature Reserve in the northeast of Plymouth, next to the communities of Leigham, Estover and Eggbuckland. It's a good sized green space (28 hectares) where you can enjoy walking and playing as well as exploring nature.
The most recent improvements to the site carried out by the Stepping Stones to Nature project have included upgrading paths, new signage designed by Leigham Primary School children, a pond dipping platform, picnic table and natural play features.
Why not enjoy a circular walk through the reserve? Stroll along the old tramway under the tree canopy, down to the pond and meadow to the picnic area. There are some steps, slopes and uneven ground on the route.
From Monday 4 November 2019 until 2022 access to the Forder Valley Nature Reserve from Novorossiysk Road will be closed along with a short section of public footpath. This is to ensure public safety during construction of the Forder Valley Link Road. Access into the nature reserve will be maintained from Sheepstor Road and Longbridge Road.
Forder Valley (LNR) https://www.plymouth.gov.uk/parksnatureandgreenspace/localnaturereserves/fordervalleylnr
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Local Nature Reserves (LNR's) are living green spaces which are important for people and support vibrant wildlife. They are important to the health and prosperity of our city, providing ecosystem services including absorbing carbon, cleaning the air, providing opportunities for pollinating insects and natural flood management. They are free for the public to visit, learn about nature and enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of being outdoors in nature.
There are now 13 Local Nature Reserves in Plymouth (12 of these are owned and managed by Plymouth City Council in partnership with local communities). Volunteer groups are crucial in managing these sites, regular work parties and volunteer groups carry out management activities across the sites.
All unitary, district and county councils can acquire, declare and manage Local Nature Reserves.
In 2018 3 new reserves were designated bringing the total area of LNR within the city to 297 hectares – which is well above the national standard of 1 hectare for every 1000 people.
https://www.plymouth.gov.uk/parksnatureandgreenspaces/localnaturereserves
