THE public are being asked to give their views on planned improvements at Weston Hills, the valuable wildlife site on the edge of Baldock between the town and the bypass. Proposals include new paths, information boards, a site leaflet and improved car p

THE public are being asked to give their views on planned improvements at Weston Hills, the valuable wildlife site on the edge of Baldock between the town and the bypass.

Proposals include new paths, information boards, a site leaflet and improved car parking at Hatch Lane. There is also a plan to re-introduce small numbers of grazing livestock to improve management of the grassland.

The scheme has been drawn up by the Countryside Management Service (CMS) and site owner North Herts District Council (NHDC) with help from the Friends of Baldock Greenspaces.

The public consultation will kick off at Baldock Festival street fair on May 16, where the CMS will have a stand. Comments can also be made by calling them on 01462 459395.

The Weston Hills site, soon to be a designated a local nature reserve, features woodland as well as rare chalk downland containing many species of unusual wildflowers including several types of native orchid. There are also a wide variety of animals and birds such as the blackcap and chiffchaff.

The enhancements also include an all-weather surfaced path suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, information boards and a site leaflet to guide visitors around.

Cllr Tricia Gibbs, NHDC's portfolio holder for community engagement, said: "NHDC is delighted to support this initiative from CMS and I encourage all local people to make their views heard.