I've seen Christchurch grow and change over the years, in some respects beyond recognition as time and unrestrained urban sprawl marches on relentlessly. Often the changes feel negative, as if something is being lost, which is usually true as pockets of nature are nibbled, bitten off and consumed. This afternoon I cycled into town, along the coast, past Mudeford Quay and over Stanpit. When I was a child Stanpit was the site of the dump, an open council rubbish tip. I remember grubbing about amongst the rubbish like 'Stig of the dump', finding all manner of curiosities, well, it was the 70's. Years later the whole site was buried and landscaped, and subsequently turned into a 9 hole golf course. That golf course has now gone, and the landscape turned into a wildlife area, only in it's infancy the area has massive potential and is a fantastic addition the natural character of the harbour. From the former golf course's raised position you've got great views over the reed flanked rivers of the Stour and Avon, across the marshes, and over the tidal harbour to Hengistbury Head, and all around you nature has already begun to exert dominion, reclaiming what's rightfully hers. This is a positive change I can happily embrace.
I remember exploring the dump as a child in the late 1950’s and finding all sorts of “treasures”, an 18th century family bible, a small figure made of strung beads, a cracked but beautiful bowl. Later, as a teacher, I read “Stig of the Dump” to my class and really identified with the central character..
ReplyDeleteThe marshes look wonderful now , full of wildlife…….but as a young child, I loved that dump!
I remember exploring the dump as a child in the late 1950’s and finding all sorts of “treasures”, an 18th century family bible, a small figure made of strung beads, a cracked but beautiful bowl. Later, as a teacher, I read “Stig of the Dump” to my class and really identified with the central character..
ReplyDeleteThe marshes look wonderful now , full of wildlife…….but as a young child, I loved that dump!
I remember exploring the dump as a child in the late 1950’s and finding all sorts of “treasures”, an 18th century family bible, a small figure made of strung beads, a cracked but beautiful bowl. Later, as a teacher, I read “Stig of the Dump” to my class and really identified with the central character..
ReplyDeleteThe marshes look wonderful now , full of wildlife…….but as a young child, I loved that dump!