Success in project to connect two national parks
The aim is to link up the New Forest in Copythorne with the South Downs near Winchester
More than three miles of hedgerow have been planted in Hampshire in the first year of a project to connect two national parks.
The aim is to link up the New Forest in Copythorne with the South Downs in Compton near Winchester with a green corridor of new and restored habitat.
The Hampshire Hedge is a three-year scheme that will create a nature corridor through central Hampshire parishes, woodlands, meadows, local nature reserves and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs).
The countryside charity CPRE Hampshire is behind it, saying they're committed to creating a thriving countryside that benefits people, nature, and wildlife.
Education is a key part of their approach to help hedgerows flourish and ensure they remain an important part of the UK landscape. In doing so, the Hampshire Hedge has seen:
- 3 Hedge-laying traineeships with professional hedge-laying business
- Over 150 people participating in hedge-laying training events
- 18 people trained in surveying
- 588 children and young people involved
- 10 schools and colleges engaged with the project
Ellie Banks, CPRE Hampshire hedgerow project officer explains “We are thrilled to see the Hampshire Hedge come to life through the hard work and dedication of our incredible supporters. It’s been a real team effort.
"I’ve been amazed at the commitment of volunteers, helping us achieve this ambitious project. I would also like to thank the farmers and landowners who have worked with us this year.
"The success of this initiative highlights the importance of community involvement and is testament to the positive impact that can be achieved through collective action.
"I’m really looking forward to welcoming existing supporters back to the project for our second year of the Hampshire Hedge and would also like to take this opportunity to extend an invitation to anyone new who would like to get involved and help build Hampshire’s biggest nature corridor.”
Help the Hampshire Hedge flourish with the Green Match Fund
After the success of last year’s Big Give campaign, the Green Match Fund will once again double a donation to further support the growth of the Hampshire Hedge.
To donate, click here.