Volunteers with the Lockdown Woods project have planted over 2000 native trees of over 25 species in five locations around West Berkshire. The Lockdown Woods team, together with corporate volunteers, carry out regular maintenance visits to all the small woods.

The Newbury Nature Corridor project is an extension of our Lockdown Woods environmental work, and will link two of the Lockdown Woods in Newbury via a Nature Corridor.

The woods in Goldwell Park and Barn Crescent, 2.5 miles apart by foot, will be connected through this initiative. The route between them includes significant landmarks such as the Kennet and Avon canal, City Recreation Ground, St Bartholomew’s school, and the John Rankin schools, as well as residential streets with gardens and wide verges. The area includes nine sites managed by Newbury Town Council.

By capturing people’s imagination with the bold idea of linking two existing nature sites in town, we aim to encourage residents to take action to support local wildlife. Work with the relevant local councils to improve open spaces and verges for wildlife along the route is also key to the success of this project. This will all enhance biodiversity in the project area.

We hope this project will involve many residents and children, teaching a love of nature and giving skills to care for their environment. Newbury Friends of the Earth is also reaching out to local scout, church and other community groups to widen participation.