SOUTH Gloucestershire's hedgerows are set to receive some much needed TLC, thanks to a new project.
The local countryside charity, CPRE Avon and Bristol, has received a grant for a Hedgerow Heroes project, which will help overhaul the management of 118km of hedgerows alongside South Gloucestershire’s footpaths.
"Hedgerows are the vital stitching in the patchwork of our countryside," said David Worskett, Chair of CPRE Avon and Bristol.
"They provide homes and corridors for wildlife and they tackle the climate crisis by locking in carbon.
“Sadly half our hedgerows have been ripped out since the second world war.
"Years of aggressive machine management techniques like flailing have left them battered and struggling to recover.
"We’re really excited to be working with South Gloucestershire Council to explore how more sensitive, expert and people powered management can help our hedgerows recover and thrive. This project can in due course provide a model for the rest of the country to follow.”
He added: "We're calling on local people as well as parish and town councils to join a team of Hedgerow Heroes who will learn how to sensitively manage hedgerows before getting out into the countryside to put their new skills to work by giving our hedgerows the TLC they so badly need."
Toby Savage, leader of South Gloucestershire Council said: “We are delighted to partner with CPRE Avon and Bristol for this exciting new hedgerow management project. Hedgerows are such an important habitat within our landscapes and are home to a variety of wildlife. Some of South Gloucestershire’s hedgerows date back hundreds if not thousands of years and protecting and enhancing them is part of our commitment to the climate and nature emergency.
"This project will focus on hedges owned by the council, and we look forward to working with town and parish councils and residents to understand our hedges better and ensure they are properly managed for the future.”
CPRE is calling on the UK government for a 40 per cent increase in hedgerows by 2050. This will require adding over 4,000 miles of new and restored hedgerow per year. This project starting in June will provide a local response to this national ambition.
To register your interest in supporting the Hedgerow Heroes project, visit: www.cpreavonandbristol.org.uk/hedgerowheroes
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