Headley Down Nature Reserve Trust
Other
We want to improve the nature reserve further by installing more paths and seating, planting trees and wildflowers, and locating nest boxes.
About this cause
Our charity is transforming a former abandoned landfill site into a Nature Reserve with public access. Before we began the project, there were longstanding problems with fly-tipping, littering and anti-social behaviour. By taking local ownershop of the site, bringing people and wildlife together, these issues have been greatly reduced. We are installing hard-surfaced and informal paths, creating wildflower areas to encourage biodiversity and providing interpretation boards of wildlife species. All visitors improve their health and wellbeing, especially those on the adjacent Heatherlands Estate, home to many people with protected characteristics. We collaborate with other groups, such as the neighbouring pre-school, to promote knowledge of the natural environment and a sense of community.
How this cause brings people in the community together
Our project promotes community cohesion by participation in a shared project. It reduces the instances of fly-tipping and littering by encouraging local ownership of the site. Providing pleasant areas for walking improves wellbeing, very important for local residents in vulnerable categories. Children from groups such as the nearby pre-school will visit to learn about wildlife and the environment.