Bourton Meadow

Welcome to Bourton Meadow, an enchanting canal oasis just outside the Buckingham ring road! This hidden gem has a fascinating history and has undergone an incredible transformation, thanks to the dedication of volunteers and the support of the local community. Let’s take a closer look at this captivating destination:

Bourton Meadow 2016: A Journey through Time

Step into the past and imagine a spring afternoon at Bourton Meadow in 2016. This picturesque canal section, once a bustling waterway, fell into disrepair over a century ago. Leakage and its unfortunate use as Buckingham’s sewage outlet caused the canal to run dry, and the last boat sailed its waters around 1900. But don’t worry, this story has a happy ending!

The Revival: BCS Activity

The Buckingham Canal Society (BCS) took on the challenge of restoring Bourton Meadow, and their hard work has paid off. In 2013, after extensive planning and collaboration, the canal was re-profiled, lined with waterproof material, and re-watered with the help of adjacent river pumps. The water margins were thoughtfully landscaped with native species, creating a flourishing ecosystem for aquatic habitats and wildlife.

The restoration of Bourton Meadow would not have been possible without the generous support of various organizations. Grants were awarded by WREN (Waste Recycling Environmental Limited) and AVCC (Aylesbury Vale Community Chest), enabling the significant work to be undertaken. These grants provided essential funding for the re-lining, re-watering, and environmental enhancement of the site, ensuring the project’s success. (Details of the WREN grant project write up can be found here.)

• 2011: An ecological study funded by a grant from Luton and Bedfordshire Community Foundation was conducted as a precursor to the planning application for the restoration project.
• April 2012: Planning application for re-lining, re-watering, and environmental enhancement of Bourton Meadow was approved.
• 2013: The canal was re-profiled to a navigable depth, lined with a waterproof material, and re-watered with water pumped from the adjacent river.
• Grants from WREN and AVCC were awarded to support the restoration efforts.
  The water margins were landscaped with coir mats and planted with native species to encourage aquatic habitats and wildlife.
• October 2016: A river inlet chamber was created to enable top-up water to be pumped into the canal year-round.

From Desolation to Delight: Current Status

Step into Bourton Meadow today and prepare to be amazed. Once a forgotten canal, it now thrives with life and beauty. Thanks to our restoration efforts, the waters flow freely, attracting a diverse array of flora, fauna, and aquatic creatures. We’ve even brought back 12 butterfly species, including 5 endangered ones. With a solar-powered pump, the canal stays vibrant, oxygenated, and debris-free. Bourton Meadow is a testament to nature’s resilience and the power of community collaboration. Experience its magic first-hand and witness the remarkable transformation that inspires us all.

The Journey Continues: Next Steps

While Bourton Meadow has come a long way, the journey isn’t over yet. The site is constantly evolving and maturing, drawing inspiration from the community. As a popular area for residents, there are ongoing efforts to add even more value to this project. The Buckingham Canal Society welcomes fresh ideas and enthusiastic individuals to join them in shaping the future of Bourton Meadow. If you would like to get involved please click here.

Exploring Bourton Meadow: Where Nature Flourishes

To experience the wonders of Bourton Meadow first-hand, venture to the work party location. Start by parking in the lay-by next to The Bourton Meadow Academy. Cross the Buckingham ring road, and as you step onto the footpath, be prepared to be transported to a world of natural beauty. Follow the path until you reach the kissing gate, and once you pass through it, turn left and continue until the canal bed comes into view. There, you’ll be greeted by the captivating sight of Bourton Meadow.

Bourton Meadow is more than just a restored canal; it’s a testament to the resilience of nature and the power of community. It invites you to immerse yourself in its story, to witness the transformation from desolation to delight. So, grab your walking shoes, bring your curiosity, and embark on a memorable journey at Bourton Meadow today. Let nature’s wonders unfold before your eyes as you explore this extraordinary destination!

Work Party Location

Park in the lay-by next to The Bourton Meadow Academy, Burleigh Piece, Buckingham, MK18 7HX. Cross the Buckingham ring road, turn left onto the footpath, follow through to the kissing gate, go through it and turn left and keep walking until you see the canal bed.

Here is a location plan for the site