Winnall Moors - an Exemplar for the River Itchen
The ‘Winnall Moors - Exemplar for the River Itchen" restoration project is a five year Heritage Lottery funded project. It began in September 2008 and is undertaking an ambitious and exciting programme of works to develop the nature reserve as an exemplar for the Itchen Valley of best practice in all areas of land management (grazing, fishing, heritage, education, etc) in a way that is compatible with the needs of wildlife.
Site description
Spanning approximately 158 acres of floodplain and within walking distance of the centre of Winchester (click for directions), the reserve offers an almost unique glance at the full range of habitats that once would have been present along the whole river valley. The site has the highest conservation designations for its varied habitats and rich wildlife, while many historical and cultural features are still evident. Its proximity to Winchester means that the reserve plays a vital role in helping to absorb water and protect the city during floods.
Project Aims
An extension to the reserve in 2006 enabled the Trust to control most of the floodplain in this area. Following a comprehensive review of the reserve's management and the effects of external landscape pressures, we identified significant opportunities for restoring habitats, enhancing conditions for wildlife, including ‘lost' species, preserving important historical features and engaging more fully with the local community. The project will:
- undertake a programme of habitat restoration for chalk streams and fisheries, fen meadow and wet grassland, wet woodland, as well as important historic features.
- develop a highly accessible & richly interpreted wildlife-rich reserve, encouraging the public to visit and inspire them with the values of nature conservation.
Winnall news
Download our latest Winnall newsletter (Issue 1, Winter 2009/2010).
Learn more about the Project Objectives and how to get involved. For more information, contact Martin de Retuerto (Winnall Moors Project Manager), email feedback@hwt.org.uk, tel: 01489 774400.
The Winnall Moors Restoration Project is a partnership between Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, Heritage Lottery Fund, Tubney Charitable Trust, Environment Agency, Winchester City Council and Natural England.
