National Highways Supports Hedgerow Restoration with £3,000 Donation

National Highways has donated nearly £3,000 to the Great Big Dorset Hedge (GBDH) project, aiding the restoration and expansion of hedgerows across Dorset to boost biodiversity and carbon capture.

The funding supported survey work and hedgerow replanting in Charmouth and Symondsbury, including species such as hawthorn, blackthorn, hazel, and whips. Volunteers, recruited through the project, carry out hedgerow surveys at the invitation of local farmers, helping them secure funding and guidance for effective maintenance.

Over the past 36 months, 400 volunteers have surveyed 1,000km of hedgerows, contributing 10,000 hours. 120 farmers have welcomed the project onto their land, with many adopting DEFRA-approved Sustainable Farming Incentive hedgerow standards.

Andy Gale, National Highways Service Manager for the South West, said: “We are committed to improving biodiversity along our road network and supporting local communities. Through initiatives like the GBDH project, we can restore habitats and create a healthier environment for future generations.”

The donation was made via the Community Legacy Fund, which focuses on social value across economic prosperity, environmental improvement, community wellbeing, and equality, diversity, and inclusion.

A spokesperson for GBDH added: “Thank you, National Highways, for your vital support. The GBDH community are very grateful for this contribution.”

The project is sponsored by the Dorset Climate Action Network (CAN).