Hedgerows are the lifelines of our countryside. They provide food and shelter for wildlife, capture carbon, help reduce flooding and weave together habitats across the landscape.
But these vital green corridors are disappearing. Since 1950, around half of the UK’s hedgerows have been lost, leaving nature fragmented and our countryside less resilient to the challenges of climate change.
That’s why we launched our Hedgerow Heroes Project in 2023.
Bringing together volunteers, landowners, schools, businesses, community groups and local partners, we’re working to restore, create and protect hedgerows across Gloucestershire.
Every hedge planted and restored helps reconnect habitats, support biodiversity and strengthen the natural environment for future generations.
But Hedgerow Heroes is about more than planting hedges. It’s about empowering people to take positive action for nature, learn new conservation skills and play a part in creating a greener, healthier and more resilient county.
Together, we’re rebuilding Gloucestershire’s hedgerow network, one hedge at a time.
GET INVOLVED THIS SEASON
We’re excited to launch our fourth season and are seeking volunteers, supporters and partners to help us make an even greater impact across Gloucestershire this autumn and winter!
From restoring vital hedgerows to supporting local wildlife, there are countless ways to get involved. Whether you’re a countryside enthusiast, eager to learn practical conservation skills, or simply want to give back to nature, we’d love to have you on board…
Previous project seasons
Season 3: 2025-6
Over 2km of hedgerow planted and restored!
Our third Hedgerow Heroes season was our most successful yet, exceeding our target with 2,085 metres of hedgerow planted and restored across Gloucestershire. Working closely with farmers, landowners and volunteers, we helped create and improve vital habitats that benefit wildlife, landscapes and local communities.
Building on the momentum of previous seasons, this work is helping to connect habitats, boost biodiversity, capture carbon and ensure Gloucestershire’s hedgerows continue to thrive for generations to come.
Season 2: 2024-5
2.4km of hedgerow planted and restored!
Season 1: 2023-4
1.5km of hedgerow planted and restored
Give a hedge a helping hand
Could you spare just £2 to help our hedgerows thrive?
Every donation, big or small, helps us restore more hedgerows, support more wildlife, and create a greener future for Gloucestershire.
CPRE has championed hedgerows for a century, first warning against their “indiscriminate destruction” in our 1926 founding manifesto.
Today, CPRE groups across England are continuing that mission through the Hedgerow Heroes initiative, restoring and protecting hedgerows for wildlife, climate and future generations.
CPRE Gloucestershire joined the movement in 2023, and by becoming a Hedgerow Hero, you’ll be helping to continue this vital work right here in our county.
