St Albans Greener Together is all about learning from the stories of others in the District. In this article we will be sharing the work our member Friends of Jersey Lane are doing to conserve this important community route.
Friends of Jersey Lane was formed in April 2023. Jersey Lane is a one-and-a-half-mile pedestrian/cycle route linking the communities of Marshalswick, Jersey Farm and Sandridge. It was originally a road but the use of the Lane by motorised vehicles was prohibited in the 1970s.
The Lane provides an important route for commuters, cyclists, walkers, runners, dog walkers and for general recreation. The path is fully lit, which is very useful as it creates a safe way for residents to engage in Active Travel. The Friends of Jersey Lane conduct maintenance along the sides of the Lane to ensure the active transport corridor can still be used. Not only this, but they aim to increase the biodiversity of the Lane and conserve its natural assets.
The group has worked with St Albans City and District Council, Hertfordshire County Council, and several community groups to plant new hedges and clear invasive species. They have also carried out several ecological surveys including butterflies and bats to highlight the importance of the area and are working to clear areas for the planting of wildflowers.
The operations of Friends of Jersey Lane are an excellent example of a group maintaining an important resource for the community while keeping sustainability at the heart of their mission.
Consider using active transport and Jersey Lane on your next trip around that area and check out the Friends of Jersey Lane website to find out more and join their cause.
A huge thank you to the Friends of Jersey Lane for showing St Albans Greener Together around and letting us know all the great work you are doing. If you have an story or experience you would like to share with us you can submit it on our Your Stories page!