More than 35,000 trees will be planted by Heart of England Forest at the former Manor Farm Golf Course in Harvington over the next year.
Restoring Manor Farm Golf Course into a natural landscape will begin in August with the ambition of opening the new woodland to the public in Spring 2027.
Manor Farm Golf Course to be transformed into new woodland (Image: Cllr Craig Reeves)
Emma Pestridge, operations project delivery officer at Heart of England Forest, said: “Over the next year we will be transforming this space into woodlands, wetlands, and grasslands. A real mosaic of habitats.
“Within our plans, we have worked in a permissive access route that will mean you will be able to walk pretty much teh majority of our sites throughout our woodlands and along some of the river.
“We are planting a big mix of trees here. Over towards the river and the wetter parts of our site will be those wetter species such as alder and willow that will help thrive in the wetter soils. Then towards the North part og the site, where it is that little bit drier, you will see a more traditional broadleaf mix that will include Oak and things like that.
“This project will be completed by March 31 2027. So we will be all up and ready for visitors in Spring next year.”
Manor Farm Golf Course (Image: Cllr Craig Reeves)
Open areas will be managed as traditional hay meadows and grazing land, while preserving historic ridge-and-furrow features and the character of the riverside landscape. Low-lying areas that naturally flood will be planted with species such as willow, alder and poplar, creating wet woodland that supports wildlife and is adapted to changing conditions.
Former golf course features, including bunkers, ditches and drains, will be reshaped into wetlands, with new scrapes and restored ponds helping to slow floodwater and provide habitat for birds, amphibians and other species.
Healthy existing trees, woodland, and hedgerows will be retained and enhanced, with an additional 340 metres of hedgerow strengthening wildlife corridors across the site. New walking routes will link to existing public rights of way, with further permissive paths planned to improve access while protecting sensitive habitats.
The project marks a significant step in turning a managed golf course into a thriving natural landscape that will benefit the local community and wildlife for generations to come.
Cllr Craig Reeves (Image: Cllr Craig Reeves)
Cllr Craig Reeves said: “It’s great to see development that is not houses or flats for a change.
“It will be open to the public, and it’s a breath of fresh air.
“The Heart of England Forest is Felix Dennis’ legacy, and the charity is doing this in a number of places. It’s a great project.
“Everyone is really happy; I haven’t heard anything negative.
“It’s got the river, and it will be lovely. That part of the village is severed by the A46, so it is not used as much as it should be.
“It’s a really lovely walk and should attract people back into nature.”