Rede Common

Rede Common is a Local Nature Reserve of 11.2 hectares in Strood, part of the Borough of Medway. It lies on the Thanet Beds, giving the sandy soil that earned it the local name Sandy Banks. Once farmland used for grazing, arable crops and market gardening, the site now offers open acid grasslands framed by scrub and trees. Three entrances allow access: in Watling Street, Hyacinth Road and Columbine Close. A community trail run by local residents passes through the reserve. The Friends of Rede Common carried out a wildlife survey in 2020. They recorded wood mice, field voles, bank voles, foxes, grey squirrels, brown rats and moles living among the grasslands. Throughout the year the group also observes a wide variety of birds and butterflies. The reserve’s mix of habitats supports this diversity of species. Its open grasslands and surrounding scrub create a patchwork that wildlife uses year-round. Visitors walk along the Strood Community Trail as it crosses Rede Common. The sandy paths wind through grassland dotted with gorse and bramble. Scrub edges provide cover for small mammals and birds. The reserve’s open views allow sightings of foxes and squirrels during quiet moments. Wildflowers attract butterflies in summer and autumn. The site offers a quiet green space within Strood for walking and watching wildlife.