Wilding West Chevington
Northumberland Wildlife Trust is restoring habitats across 327 hectares of former opencast mining land at West Chevington. The project combines tree and hedge planting, natural regeneration and conservation grazing to develop woodland, scrub, grassland and wetland habitats.[1][2]
Current position
Cattle were introduced for conservation grazing in June 2026. The initial funded habitat works have ended, while the wider West Chevington project continues.
Project details
- The site was acquired in 2022 with a £2 million donation from the Reece Foundation.
- Reported works include 10,000 native trees, a kilometre of new hedge and seven copses.
Timeline
2022
Northumberland Wildlife Trust acquires the site.
2024–26
Species Survival Fund supports habitat works.
June 2026
Conservation grazing begins.