A developer has apologised after it was revealed a welcome board at a new eco park in Netherfield contains incorrect information about native species using the green space.
The board at the entrance to Rivendell Eco Park displays information about what wildlife you can expect to see during a visit.
The boards and eco park were created by housing developer Persimmon Homes with support from Gedling Borough Council during construction of the new Rivendell estate off Teal Close.
But the boards have been mocked online by wildlife experts who say some of the species listed ‘don’t exist’ or are native to other countries.
Wildlife expert and trustee of Gedling Conservation Trust Mark Glover, who helps manage the neighbouring Netherfield Lagoons Nature Reserve pointed out the errors to Gedling Eye.
Mr Glover pointed out that the lapwing featured in the display ‘certainly was not a UK lapwing’ and ‘is a totally different species’.
He said there was ‘no such thing’ as a Coal Marsh tit – with the coal and marsh tit being two different species
He said that while some of the other species are native, they are ‘very unlikely’ to ever to be seen at the park, like the pied flycatcher.
Mr Glover said that the Trust had been interested in getting involved in the creation of the park but said there had been ‘little interest’
He said: “We have tried to play a part in the site for the last seven years but the fact is nether Persimmon or GBC have any interest. This is a tragedy and a missed opportunity as the site could have great synergistic value as neighbour to the Netherfield Lagoons.
Gedling Eye contacted both Persimmon Homes and Gedling Borough Council about whether the sign would now be corrected.
A spokesman for Gedling Borough Council confirmed that the board has been created by Persimmon Homes ‘without any involvement’ from Gedling Borough Council.
They added: “Our understanding is that Persimmon are aware that the board is incorrect and they are going to change it.”
A spokesperson for Persimmon Homes said: “We are aware of an error that has occurred in relation to some watch species listed on the welcome boards at our Teal Close development, and would like to apologise for any confusion this may have caused.
“A revision is currently being prepared – in consultation with local residents – in order to address this. It is our intention to implement these changes in the coming weeks.”
It seems to be the norm now that local consultation only happens after there is a problem and not prior to initiatives being developed. These large builders don’t seem to learn
The first road to be built on the old railway sidings was named Mallard(as in famous steam engine), later Pintail and Teal were constructed (as in ducks). Yep the developers have struck again..