Lifescapes Project

Lifescapes was part-financed by English Nature as well as LEADER+, and looked at opportunities for environmental enhancement through mapping and community involvement. The aim was to make use of local knowledge and involve rural communities in this process, consulting them on what they would like to see done locally to the benefit of biodiversity (wildlife) and landscape.

The mapping element of the project had two tiers: a macro-map and a micro-map. The macro-map was designed to summarise the areas it shows, to give a broad view of the opportunities for landscape, habitats and conservation. The micro-map covered smaller parcels of land, showing much more detail. These maps were used to highlight the ideas, needs and requirements from communities as to things they would like to improve or add in to their environment.

Using the mapping process as a foundation, the community entered a phase of consultation with the project officer. Members of the Stapleton Group Parishes then implemented the creation of Coles Hill Toposcope.

Training was provided to community groups in conservation and biodiversity. They were also encouraged to draw up plans of action for particular river areas/issues. The Lifescapes team then supported the community to become sustainable and to succeed. They did this through:

• Help with accessing funding
• Mediating with individual landowners
• Accessing resources from statutory agencies
• Training in specific conservation skills (in line with certain needs)

Throughout all of this process, Lifescapes simply offered communities a chance to have their say about their localities, to improve, rebuild or begin new habitats of their choice, and to take on growing responsibility for their area and the future of their particular projects. The Lifescapes officer gradually took a step away from the running of the community-led projects, until they could function successfully on their own.

Lifescapes Project Officer
Tel: (01432) 383026
Email: jallen2@herefordshire.gov.uk