Woolhope Dome (Phase 2)

Herefordshire Nature Trust has moved into the second phase of the Woolhope Dome project for the following 18 months, until June 2007. The overall aim of the project is to:
· Achieve sustainable outcomes for the characteristic biodiversity and locally distinctive natural features of the Woolhope Dome through rebuilding functional habitat networks and links at a landscape level
· Reconnect people with nature by furthering associated social and economic benefits, whilst assisting implementation of relevant policies and targets

The Project Officer (funded independently through English Nature) will use the resources provided by the LEADER+ funding to deliver further environmental and socio-economic gains for the Woolhope Dome area. LEADER+ funding will employ a part time Enterprise Officer and a part time Administration Officer.

Phase 2 seeks to build on the successes of Phase 1, fulfilling the demonstrated need for continuance and development work of the aspects that took place previously, ensuring the longer term sustainability of the Dome and its community.

The project seeks to work in partnership to provide information, expertise, advice, guidance, facilitation and incentives to land owners and managers, other businesses and community interests. This will bring about interconnected improvements in, and generate opportunities for, the local economy and ecology, by focusing on linking local produce, producers and consumers and environmentally friendly production methods, and by fostering related visitor attractions and facilities.

Aspects of the project that will be delivered are:

• A re-launch event, celebrating the achievements of Phase 1 and promoting Phase 2
• A socio-economic scoping study of the Woolhope Dome, to identify potential markets and skills gaps
• Small business seminars
• Tourism training events
• Training days for orchard owners
• Woodland training days

There will also be a lot of advice given to the owners of small holders, which includes grants and funding, practical habitat advice and conservation management. Promotion of the importance of semi-natural grassland, the new agri-environment schemes, sustainable economic woodland management and local natural attractions are all part of this project.

This project contributes to three of the five key challenges identified in the regional biodiversity strategy for the West Midlands (2005) through: developing an area based approach to restoring wildlife; maintaining and improving the condition of habitats, species and ecosystems; and, re-connecting and integrating action for biodiversity with other environmental, social and economic activity.

Chris Stubbs
Project Officer
Herefordshire Nature Trust
Tel: (01432) 356872
Email: cstubbs@herefordwt.cix.co.uk

Francesca Griffith
Conservation Manager
Herefordshire Nature Trust
Tel: (01432) 356872
Email: fgriffith@herefordwt.cix.co.uk

Website: www.wildlifetrust.org.uk/hereford