UK Biodiversity Efforts Expand Across South Downs, Wandsworth, Longford Hedgerows

Efforts to combat invasive grass species such as molinia and tor grass in the UK are ongoing, with conservation grazing initiatives using Exmoor ponies proving effective in restoring upland habitats and reducing wildfire risks, as seen in East Sussex and Ashdown Forest. Large-scale biodiversity restoration projects, like the one at Halnaker Hill Farm in South Downs National Park, aim to revert farmland to its historic natural state by planting thousands of trees and creating diverse habitats, guided by 18th-century landscape maps. Local biodiversity is also being enhanced in urban and semi-urban areas through targeted planting schemes, including native hedges and wildflower meadows in places like Clarks Village in Street, contributing to improved air quality and support for pollinators. Community involvement is key, exemplified by Wandsworth Council’s garden wildlife survey, which highlights the importance of private gardens in supporting species such as hedgehogs and stag beetles and informs the development of new biodiversity action plans. Meanwhile, Longford County Council in Ireland has launched a comprehensive hedgerow biodiversity research project to assess ecological health and historical significance, aiming to guide future conservation efforts. Together, these initiatives reflect a multi-faceted approach to restoring and preserving biodiversity across rural and urban landscapes.