Friends of Charlton Brook

Charlton Brook is a greenspace within the area of High Green, Burncross, and Chapeltown to the north of Sheffield. It consists of a brook set in a valley, at the top end is the dam which hosts a variety of wildlife and can still be fished. Sections of woodland run along the site, some of which are ancient areas of meadows and heritage forest. The brook is cris-crossed by ancient pathways from more rural times. The site also has a small playground, BMX track and basketball court.

The creation of the dam is linked to the industrial and economic development of Sheffield, especially for the Newton Chambers complex. The brook feeds Thorncliffe pond which housed a pumping station to provide more water for the industrial network. 

The dam was, and still is a key feature in the identity of the area. Then and now Charlton Brook acts as a focal point for the local community to "walk dogs, relax and admire the local wildlife".

Friends of Charlton Brook are a group of local residents who came together in October 2006 to look after the green space.

The groups original aims were to:

1. Desilt the dam - this took place after £120K was raised by the group in 2010 providing a bespoke fishery complete with disabled fishing pegs. This also includes an island for wildfowl to breed and live safely.

2. Upgrade of pathways - several paths have been upgraded and now include disabled access. This project is still ongoing.

3. Regular refuse collections - ongoing.

4. Woodland management - This is ongoing to help extend the life of the tree cover and increase the diversity of habitat for wildlife.

5. Stream clearance - ongoing.

6. New seating, litter and dog bins - these have all now been installed.

7. Improvement of the BMX track and children's play area - this took place in 2009 and funds are now being rasied for further play equipment to be purchased for the site.

A new project is the Fruity Fun orchard which will be located in the old disused play area, this will provide locals the opportunity to pick and eat fresh fruit and herbs. We are currently raising funds for this to take place. Check out https://spacehive.com/fruityfunorchardproject