A project to connect Croft wood with other woodland habitats will be launched this month.
In support of the Government’s Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP), Swindon Borough Council’s Ranger team, with the help of volunteers, is creating a green corridor 100 metres long, linking Croft wood off Pipers Way to other nearby woodland habitats.
When established, the corridor will link Croft wood to a network of trees hedges and woods over 24km long including the Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) at Coate Water Country Park.
Croft wood was planted almost 20 years ago and has proved to be extremely popular with local people as well as developing into a valuable habitat for wildlife.
The new green corridor will benefit a number of creatures from tiny bugs and beasts right through to bats and birds of prey. When the greenery matures, it will add to the beauty of the country trail, with flowers, berries and the chance to see local wildlife.
People are being invited to get involved in the project by taking part in a day of hedge planting with the Ranger team on Sunday, 15 January. The team hope to plant a total of 525 hedge plants on the day.
Cllr Nick Martin, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Streetsmart and Parks, said: “The fragmentation of woodland is recognised as a key threat to our country's wildlife as it leads to a poorer diversity of plants and animals, which can in turn lead to the extinction of local wildlife populations.
“I am delighted we are creating this green corridor as it will help to combat these problems, allowing wildlife greater freedom of movement and access to food which would otherwise not be available.
“I would urge anyone who is free on Sunday 15 January to pop down and lend a hand to an incredibly worthwhile project that will benefit Swindon’s wildlife.”
David Boase, of Swindon Borough Council’s Ranger team, who has organised the project, said: “By doing something as simple as planting hedges we are investing in the future of our countryside. I’m very proud to be a part of such a great project.”
Anyone interested in taking part in the hedge planting should meet at Croft wood car park, off Pipers Way opposite Nationwide House, at 10am. The Ranger team will be on hand to provide tools and gloves, but those taking part should wear stout footwear and warm, waterproof clothes. Due to the nature of the task, wheelchair access will be limited.
If you would like to get involved, or simply want to know more about this and other Ranger events contact the Ranger team on 01793 490150 or email: David Boase at: Dboase@Swindon.gov.uk