National Trust Launches Ambitious 10-Year Hedgerow Restoration

A significant hedgerow restoration project has commenced at the National Trust’s Wimpole Hall estate in Cambridgeshire. Over the next decade, the conservation charity aims to plant or restore approximately **23 km (14 miles)** of hedgerows on its **1,000-hectare (2,500-acre)** property. This initiative is designed to enhance wildlife habitats while simultaneously benefiting the working farm through improved firebreaks and erosion control.

The farm and countryside manager, **Dave Hassall**, emphasized the impact of restoring each section of hedgerow. “Each section of hedge that we restore makes the whole network bigger and better,” he stated. The restoration efforts will also contribute to a more resilient landscape, enhancing its functionality as a connected ecosystem in response to climate change.

Restoration Efforts Underway

The Wimpole Estate features a grand mansion, expansive parkland, and a functioning farm. This winter, staff and volunteers have successfully planted **30,000 trees** and restored **2.3 km (1.4 miles)** of hedgerow. The restoration strategy aims to promote flourishing hedgerows by encouraging flowering and fruit production, thus providing essential food and shelter for diverse wildlife.

Among the species expected to benefit are red-listed farmland birds like the **corn bunting**, **yellowhammer**, and **linnet**, as well as winter visitors such as fieldfares and redwings. Hassall noted that “we are using well-established, traditional techniques to restore our network of hedgerows.” He explained that while laying and coppicing hedgerows may appear drastic, these methods lead to rapid regrowth and revitalization.

Long-Term Vision for Biodiversity

The long-term hedgerow restoration programme was developed in **2023** and outlines specific targets for the estate. Approximately **10%** of the existing hedges will be coppiced, **6.7 km (4.1 miles)** will be traditionally laid, and **13.8 km (8.6 miles)** of new hedgerows will be planted, which translates to around **83,000 native trees and shrubs**.

This comprehensive approach not only aims to enhance biodiversity but also to create a sustainable environment that supports both wildlife and agricultural productivity. The National Trust’s commitment to restoring hedgerows reflects its broader mission to safeguard natural habitats and promote conservation efforts across its estates.

The Wimpole Estate continues to serve as a vital hub for conservation and education, showcasing the importance of traditional farming practices in maintaining biodiversity.