Calls to improve ‘neglected’ entrance to Ballard Water Meadow in New Milton

IMPROVEMENTS have been demanded to a New Milton beauty spot entrance said to not reflect “the importance of its surroundings”.

“There is a difference between natural and neglected,” local and New Milton Residents Association member Julia Stamper told town councillors as she raised the concern about Ballard Water Meadow.

Speaking at a recent amenities committee meeting, she believed a small area at the south west entrance could be sorted out easily and cheaply.

“The entrance to Ballard meadow doesn’t really reflect the importance of its surroundings,” Mrs Stamper said.

“There are two smallish to medium dead trees. While I take [Friends of Ballard Water Meadow chairman] Bob Lord’s point that dead wood is important to insects, there is a lot of dead wood.

“I don’t think dead trees at the entrance to an important area of the town is very attractive.”

Calling for the dead trees and a small patch of scrub to be removed, Mrs Stamper suggested a Hawthorn tree be planted.

She highlighted the benefits to wildlife, given the tree would produce blossom and berries.

Also calling for a wooden gate to replace the existing metal one, she added: “There is a difference between natural and neglected. It’s not up to the standard that it should be for such an important place in the town.”

In response, amenities chairman Cllr Geoff Blunden said Mrs Stamper’s concerns would be referred to the Friends group for its opinion.