Charnwood
The most important area for wildlife in Leicestershire
Our vision is for a Charnwood Forest that has a healthy environment, rich in geology, wildlife and wild places, where people can learn about and enjoy the beautiful and exceptional landscape, set in a working environment.
The most important area for wildlife in Leicestershire, Charnwood Forest contains a high concentration of Sites of Special Scientific Interest and Local Wildlife Sites. These places have become increasingly isolated by activities such as hedge removal, ploughing of grasslands and development. The building of the M1 motorway in the 1950s effectively split the area into two.
The Trust is already a big landowner in Charnwood Forest and aims to link its reserves together by working with neighbouring landowners and others, promoting government grant schemes, and perhaps building wildlife bridges over the motorway.
Virtual tour by Mike McFarlane
What's happening?
The Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust, in partnership with other organisations, is working to restore a mixture of woodland, wood pasture, heath grassland and meadow habitats. Since the area is also important for its geological features, these will be incorporated into the habitat restoration plans to help enhance the unique natural heritage of the forest. The Trust is also engaged in trying to influence the emerging Local Development Framework.
The scheme aims to expand and link together the numerous TWT reserves in the area. Part of the scheme area is also within The National Forest.
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Start date: 2011
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Scheme area: 12,500 hectares
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Trust reserves within the scheme: Charnwood Lodge, Ulverscroft - Herbert's Meadows, Charley Woods, Rocky Plantation, Lea Meadows, Blacksmiths Field, Mountsorrel Meadows, Cossington Meadows
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This scheme is helping species including native white-clawed crayfish, raven, heath-spotted orchid and Natterer’s bat.
- This scheme is also helping wildlife adapt to climate change, improving access for people, providing recreational opportunities and encouraging green tourism
Partners
Aggregate Industries, farmers, landowners, businesses and local communities.
More information
Email info@lrwt.org.uk | phone 0116 272 0444 | visit Charnwood Forest Living Landscape and Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust
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 Adam Cormack.JPG)
