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• Managing Organisation:

  St Albans District Council

• Contact:

  Jim Bennie

• Telephone:

  01727 819366 
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Information about this open space

The Sopwell Nunnery Open Space, with the associated Nunnery Allotments is situated on a scheduled monument site of the 12th century Nunnery of St Mary.  The site is owned by St Albans District Council, and managed in partnership with the Countryside Management Service, Sopwell Residents Assoc, and the Cottonmill Nunnery Allotment Assoc.  Although the site is relatively small, (5.9 Hect.) its location, history and diversity of habitat ensures that the open space is highly valued by the local community. Therefore, a five year management plan has been developed to allow a co-ordinated and organised approach to management and conservation of the site.  The Sopwell Nunnery Open Space was awarded its first Green Flag in 2007, which made it the district’s second successful application with Clarence Park also being awarded a Green Flag for the third year running. The two applications are in complete contrast, with Clarence Park being a typical Victorian Park, whilst Sopwell’s strengths are historical and environmental, with strong community involvement and educational opportunities.  The site is located in the valley of the River Ver, an important chalk stream, but has distinct boundaries with the river, a road, a housing development and the Alban Way; a former railway line which now forms part of the National Cycle network (Route 61) Within these boundaries there is a very active allotment site, with its allotment association keen to promote nature conservation and community education. The site is thriving with a growing membership.