Northamptonshire’s historic canal-side hedgerows to be improved for wildlife

The project

The project will see our local volunteers out on the towpaths alongside specialists to breathe new life into centuries-old hedgerows, keeping them in shape whilst making them healthier and more attractive for wildlife.

Volunteers will be trained in the traditional countryside skill of hedge laying, which involves cutting hedgerow stems and bending them so that over time they grow horizontally and intertwine, forming a thick, bushy barrier.

Many stretches of canal-side hedgerow are over 200 years old and are the canals oldest established habitat. They would originally have been planted by 18th century private canal owners to protect the towpath from cattle and other livestock.

The aim of the current project is to have a trained team of volunteers that can look after the rejuvenated hedgerows on an ongoing basis.

Vital for wildlife

Hedgerows are invaluable for a wide range of species including field mice, voles and hedgehogs as well as a variety of birds and even amphibians. Alongside canals, with their abundance of wildlife and linear routes, the hedges provide corridors safe from the threat of predators and an important source of food. However, if left unmanaged the hedgerow will simply grow upwards and become a line of separate trees, leaving wildlife vulnerable to predators and the elements.

The project has been made possible through a £27,500 grant from the Drax Foundation, which provides funding for non-profit organisations. Works will be taking place at sites including Bugbooke, Braunston, Long Buckby, Stoke Bruerne, Gayton and on the Northampton Arm of the Grand Union Canal.

Giving our wildlife a valuable lifeline

Hannah Booth, our environment manager, said: “The growing threat of habitat loss means that our waterways are an increasingly important haven for wildlife, and canal-side hedgerows give many of our most cherished species a valuable lifeline.

“Canal hedges are often as old as the canal itself and this project forms an important part of our overall work to keep our historic navigable canals alive and ensure they are protected for generations to come.

“As a charity we’re grateful for the support of Drax Foundation which will help to keep this ancient countryside skill alive and reinvigorate the hedgerows, making the canal healthier, stronger and better for some of our best loved species.”

Jane Breach, UK Community & Education Manager at Drax, said: “We are proud to support the Canal & River Trust with this donation, which will be used to provide training for volunteers to tend to hedgerows alongside canals in Northamptonshire. Drax is committed to being a good neighbour and having a positive impact in the communities where we operate, and this project will have a huge impact on the diverse range of wildlife that rely on canal-side hedgerows for food and protection.”