Landowners speak out over removal of 'fairy town' built near river in Loxley Valley
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Residents expressed their devastation after hundreds of painted stones and small ornaments, which had been stacked and left at the side of a river in the Loxley Valley, were removed and the area taped off.
The woodland display, known as fairy town or fairyland by those living nearby, had been built on private land and was allegedly dismantled due to concerns for the wildlife with a cordon in place as dozens of people have been visiting the site prompting coronavirus fears.
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Hide AdThe landowners have since received abusive posts online but say their aim is to maintain the area as a nature reserve.
A representative for the couple, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “What started off a few weeks ago as a small pile of stones quickly grew, perhaps aided by social media, into a large area completely changed from its natural state. Numerous piles of precariously balanced stones were formed, some over five feet tall.
“Stones were painted and had plastic ‘jewels’ and glitter glued on to them. Added to this, large amounts of plastic toys and items were left on site, together with discarded paint pots and brushes, surgical masks, drinks cans and other waste. Thirteen refuse sacks of plastic and other waste items have been removed from the site.”
The land in question is reportedly over 100 yards from the nearest public right of way and is believed to be close to a fish spawning area.
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Hide AdUnder the Countryside Code – which sets out responsibilities for visitors to the countryside and those who manage the land – we all have a responsibility to protect the natural environment meaning special care must be taken to not damage, destroy or remove features, including rocks and plants, which provide homes and food for wildlife.
It also states that visitors must take their litter home as it can be dangerous to wildlife and farm animals.
“Aside from the fact that the land in question is privately owned, the change to the natural environment and the leaving of plastic items and other waste is both a danger to wildlife and a criminal offence,” the landowner’s representative added.
“The recent lockdown measures have seen a huge increase in people utilising and discovering green spaces in and around the city, with many positive stories of how this has increased wellbeing. Showing respect for these green spaces is imperative if we are to ensure their preservation.”