New Cross Gate Cutting facts for kids
New Cross Gate Cutting, also known as Brockley Nature Reserve, is a special green space in London. It's like a secret garden, full of amazing plants and animals. This nature reserve is in the area of Brockley within the London Borough of Lewisham. It is a very important place for nature in the city.
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New Cross Gate Cutting: A Hidden Nature Spot
What is New Cross Gate Cutting?
This nature reserve covers about 4.2 hectares, which is roughly the size of four football fields. It runs right next to the East London line, a train line that connects Brockley and New Cross Gate. This green area is a special "Site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation." This means it's recognized as a really important place for wildlife in London.
A Piece of Ancient Woodland
Long ago, this area was part of a big forest called Hatcham Wood. This forest used to be on the border between the old counties of Kent and Surrey. New Cross Gate Cutting is a small piece of this ancient woodland that still remains today. It's also a part of what was once a much larger forest known as The Great North Wood.
Who Looks After It?
The London Wildlife Trust helps manage this special place. They are a charity that works to protect wildlife and wild spaces in London. New Cross Gate Cutting is part of a bigger effort called The Great North Wood Project. This project aims to look after the remaining parts of the old Great North Wood.
Plants and Animals You Might Find
This reserve is home to many different plants and animals. It has a rare natural habitat that helps various species thrive. You might even find deer living here! The area is mostly covered by trees. Common trees include sycamore, English Oak, hawthorn, and silver birch. These trees provide shelter and food for the wildlife.
Visiting the Reserve
New Cross Gate Cutting is usually closed to the public. This helps to protect the delicate plants and animals that live there. However, the London Wildlife Trust often holds special open days. They also organize volunteer workdays. These are great chances to visit the reserve and even help look after it. The main entrance is on Vesta Road, between Barriedale in Brockley and Sandbourne Road in Telegraph Hill.
