New nature reserve for Dorset
13 acres near Blandford are to be transformed
Last updated 10th Jan 2023
Dorset Council has purchased 13 acres of land near Blandford to transform into a wildlife haven and is looking for volunteers to help plant trees and hedges.
The land, which is currently arable fields and woodland, adjoins the Green Flag award winning Milldown Nature Reserve and North Dorset Trailway near Blandford.
The aim of the land purchase is to create new habitat and wildlife corridors to support the survival of one of the rarest bats in Europe, the Greater horseshoe bat. The project will see hedgerows restored, a wildflower meadow established, and more trees planted.
This purchase has been made possible through the council’s Habitat Compensation Fund, using money secured through developer contributions. With extra funding for the project coming from Defra’s Farming in Protected Landscapes programme (administered by Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), Blandford Forum Town Council and Dorset Council.
The new nature reserve will provide crucial habitat for adults and juvenile bats from the nearby Bryanston Site of Special Scientific Interest roost, whilst also supporting other bat species and a host of other wildlife.
Cllr Ray Bryan, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said:
“Protecting and restoring Dorset’s natural environment is one of the council’s key priorities.
“This recent land purchase is an excellent opportunity to create much needed habitat for Dorset’s wildlife, whilst providing more access to the countryside for residents.
“We are determined to work with partners to promote the recovery of nature and tackle the ecological emergency.”
To kickstart and celebrate this superb addition to Dorset’s greenspace, the council will be holding a volunteer tree and hedge planting event on the weekend of 21st and 22nd January at the site.
Members of the public are invited to come along from 10am on either or both days to help with the planting. Volunteers will need to wear stout shoes or boots and bring their own spade.
To find the event, follow signs from the Milldown Carpark (DT11 7FU) where council rangers will be on site to guide you.