01 Oct 2026

East Devon District Council's Countryside Team has secured funding from The National Lottery Community Fund to launch an exciting two-year project dedicated to improving and restoring hedgerows in community spaces across East Devon.

The new East Devon Community Hedgerows Project, led by the Countryside Team's Nature Reserve Ranger, Ben Morgan-Brown, will empower local communities with the skills and knowledge needed to care for these vital wildlife habitats and cherished landscape features.

At the heart of the project is the traditional rural craft of hedge laying, a time-honoured management technique that rejuvenates hedgerows, enhances biodiversity and creates stronger, healthier boundaries for wildlife. Community groups taking part will receive hands-on training in traditional hedge laying methods, including the safe use of hand tools and practical management advice from the Countryside Team.

To ensure groups can continue caring for their hedgerows after the training is complete, participants will also have access to a dedicated Community Hedgerow Toolbox. The toolbox was generously donated by Haven Banks Holiday Parks and will be added to with The National Lottery Funds, providing local groups with the equipment needed to carry out future conservation work.

The project is open to a wide range of community spaces and groups, including allotments, public green spaces, recreation grounds and playgrounds. Any community hedge may be considered, provided the necessary permissions are in place and the site is suitable and safe for conservation work.

Councillor Richard Jefferies, Portfolio Holder for Environment – Nature & Climate said: "This is an exciting opportunity for communities across East Devon to get involved in practical conservation and learn traditional skills that have shaped our countryside for generations. Healthy hedgerows benefit wildlife, improve our landscapes and create greener, more resilient places for everyone to enjoy. I am delighted that Ben and the team will help local people play an active role in protecting and enhancing these important habitats."

Ben brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the role, having competed in hedge laying competitions and leading hedgerow management across East Devon District Council's nature reserves.

Nature Reserves Ranger, Ben Morgan-Brown added: "Hedgerows are one of our most important habitats, providing food, shelter and wildlife corridors for countless species. This project is a fantastic opportunity to share traditional hedge laying skills with local communities and help people take an active role in enhancing nature where they live. I'm passionate about hedge laying and delighted to be leading a project that will leave a lasting legacy for both people and wildlife across East Devon."

Community groups interested in taking part, or those with a local hedgerow they would like to improve, are encouraged to contact the Countryside Team at wild@eastdevon.gov.uk.