Bury Water Meadows Group came together in 2013 to help safeguard the ‘Leg of Mutton’ – a large green open space that is part of the character of the historic market town of Bury St Edmunds. The Group then comprised concerned residents, local associations and groups, and members of the Suffolk Wildlife Trust.
The rivers Lark and Linnet (both rare chalk streams), and the land around them, have been essential parts of Bury St Edmunds for many centuries. These precious green spaces and rural landscapes are very important in contributing to the town’s historic setting and identity. To retain the character of the town, and preserve its heritage, they should be considered as key elements of the town for future generations.
In 2019 the Bury Water Meadows Group became a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) registered with the Charities Commission number 1185321 under an Association model (member voting) constitution. Membership of the CIO is open to anyone who is interested in furthering its purposes.
The objects of the CIO are:
To conserve, preserve and improve the rivers Lark and Linnet in Bury St Edmunds and adjacent areas for the benefit the public, in particular but not exclusively by:
1. Improving access and encouraging the appropriate use of the rivers and their environs by members of the public.
2. Educating the public about the rivers and their environs
3. Facilitating community involvement in the conservation of the rivers Lark and Linnet, Bury St Edmunds’ water meadows and critical adjacent areas such as the Leg of Mutton
4. Improving the biodiversity of the Lark and the Linnet
5. Working in partnership with like-minded organisations