Having operated out of the Meon Valley for over 20 years The Country House Company is well aware of its stunning countryside, glorious walks and rich array of wildlife. We were therefore delighted to hear that The Wildlife Trust has acquired St Clair’s Meadow in Soberton a nature reserve in the heart of the Meon Valley, so offering further protection to this much loved site.
St Clair’s Meadow, which covers around 16 hectares, is located within the Forest of Bere and the South Downs National Park and contains a stretch of the River Meon, one of Hampshire’s internationally important chalk rivers.
Deborah Tann, Chief Executive of Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, said: “We are absolutely delighted that we have been able to secure this wonderful site as a nature reserve. St Clair’s Meadow is a fantastic example of an historic water meadow, with a stretch of the incredible Meon chalk stream running through it. This is an exceptional habitat for wildlife that has been said to be as internationally important as the rainforests or Great Barrier Reef.
St Clair’s is already home to a rich array of wildlife, such as kingfisher, water vole and a large number of butterflies and dragonflies. We know that this meadow is also much loved by the local community and we are so grateful for their support and the support from Biffa Award that allowed us to acquire this land. We very much look forward to working with local residents in the months and years to come, to look after and enhance this new nature reserve so that it becomes a real haven for both wildlife and people to enjoy.”
For full details on properties for sale and to rent in and around The Meon Valley please contact Patrick Glynn Jones, Head of Sales or Kate Morton, Head of Lettings on 02392 632 275