Project details

This project will help secure the long-term future of the hazel dormouse, a nationally important but declining species, by restoring and strengthening hedgerow links between woodlands. Once widespread, dormouse populations have fallen sharply across the UK, making successful reintroductions especially valuable. Following the 2018 reintroduction at Ryton and Wappenbury Woods, local populations are doing well but remain vulnerable due to fragmented habitats that restrict safe movement.

Restoring existing hedgerows and creating new ones will reconnect habitats, enabling dormice and other wildlife to move more freely, find food and mates, and develop resilient, self-sustaining populations. Work will focus on the Bubbenhall–Ryton–Wappenbury woodland complex near Coventry, an area of high ecological value.

The project will also benefit local communities. Volunteers, landowners and community groups will take part in hedgerow planting and, over time, wildlife surveying and monitoring. This will build skills, encourage involvement and foster a shared sense of ownership of local nature recovery.

Securing funding for this phase will enable a second, larger phase of hedgerow creation and restoration in the autumn 2027 planting season, maximising impact and value for investment.

Scheme / Programme

The project is strategically supported by the People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES), which coordinates the National Dormouse Monitoring Programme. Nationally, hundreds of trained volunteers check nest boxes between May and November, recording numbers and condition. They collate these records to track national trends and assess conservation impact.

Scale

The scale of this project is 5,000 metres.

Project delivery timeline

The project will begin in autumn 2026 with detailed planning to identify the most effective locations for improving hedgerow connectivity. This phase will combine mapping analysis with active engagement of landowners, ensuring works are well targeted, practical and supported locally.
Hedgerow restoration and planting will then be delivered during the winter 2026–27 planting season.

Community involvement

As part of the project, we have developed a simple hedgerow surveying app that enables volunteers to record hedgerow information directly in the field. The app allows users to map the location, size and condition of existing hedgerows, including their height, length and structure, helping to identify gaps where restoration or new planting would have the greatest impact.

This real time data improves decision making and ensures investment is targeted effectively. Training has already begun with local communities to build confidence in using the app, with further volunteer training planned once funding is secured. In addition, local people will be able to take part in hedgerow planting through our established volunteer programme, creating opportunities for hands on involvement and long term stewardship.