History of the site...
Blanchman's Farm Local Nature Reserve was established in 1991 as a result of a proposal by the Warlingham Residents Association to preserve recreational playing fields from development. The site gained official Local Nature Reserve status in 2006.
Until 1945, the site was a working farm with records dating back as far as 1584. The only evidence today is the large mound of earth (opposite the pond) which covers the long derelict farm building.
The first meeting of the management committee was held on the 10th June 1991. This and subsequent meetings led to the creation of the first Management Plan, published in 1992, which aimed to reflect the character of the surrounding countryside. The shrub and tree plantings proved to be a success; the pond was improved and the meadows were established. These projects helped to set down the current structure and layout of the site.
The Management Plan aims to continue enhancing and developing the site in specific ways. These included the planting of fruit trees, hedge and boundary refurbishment, pond clearance and coppicing.
Tandridge District Council owns the land whilst day-to-day management is overseen by the Blanchman's Farm Management Committee and the Downlands Countryside Management Project.
A copy of the current Management Plan (2009) can be found on the webpage named 'Action'.
The Management Plan aims to continue enhancing and developing the site in specific ways. These included the planting of fruit trees, hedge and boundary refurbishment, pond clearance and coppicing.
Tandridge District Council owns the land whilst day-to-day management is overseen by the Blanchman's Farm Management Committee and the Downlands Countryside Management Project.
A copy of the current Management Plan (2009) can be found on the webpage named 'Action'.
