The UK’s rare and threatened species have received a significant boost thanks to a £13 million investment through the Species Recovery Programme’s Capital Grants Scheme, running from August 2023 to March 2025. Led by Natural England, this targeted funding is helping fragile wildlife populations thrive once again.
Among the beneficiaries are iconic species such as the water vole, oystercatcher, lady’s slipper orchid, hazel dormouse, and Atlantic salmon. In Somerset and North Somerset alone, two key projects received support: Wilder Woodlands, in partnership with Avon Wildlife Trust, and the Cam and Wellow Eel Project, managed by Bristol Avon Rivers Trust.
Wilder Woodlands was awarded a £398,000 grant to focus on species recovery within the North Somerset and Mendip Special Area of Conservation. The initiative aimed to restore habitat diversity, shifting from uniform plantation woodland to a varied environment with increased light that benefits native species like greater and lesser horseshoe bats, barbastelles, and dormice. The introduction of seven dexter cattle and several goats plays a vital role—their dung attracts insects, providing essential food for the bats.
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Comprehensive surveys conducted during the project have established a crucial baseline for ongoing species monitoring. Furthermore, a steering group made up of local landowners has been formed to coordinate landscape management, fostering a collaborative approach. The project has also engaged the community, offering 250 practical volunteer days, multiple training sessions, and guided nature walks to deepen public connection with the environment.
Meanwhile, the Cam and Wellow Eel Project received a £175,000 grant, enabling improvements to river habitats. Eel tiles were installed along the Wellow River to assist eels and elvers in navigating the waterway, and plans are underway to remove two obstructive weirs on the Cam Brook. Additionally, barriers on the Midford Brook at Dunkerton were removed to aid lamprey migration. These efforts are fostering dialogue around further barrier removals across the catchment, enhancing aquatic connectivity.
Tony Juniper, Chair of Natural England, highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts during an event in Warwickshire: “Nature recovery projects across the country are proving how much progress we can make when we work together. This programme shows that with targeted actions, commitment, and funding, we can reverse species decline and restore ecosystems.”
He emphasized urgency and inclusivity: “Turning around nature’s decline requires collective action — not just from specialists but from volunteers, businesses, and communities. Increased investment from all sectors, along with tackling pollution and environmental quality, is essential.”
Juniper also referenced the upcoming government Environmental Improvement Plan revision, noting the need for ambitious strategies on species recovery, habitat management, and species reintroductions as pivotal for reaching the UK’s legally binding environmental targets.
Beyond the direct environmental benefits, the scheme has deeply engaged the public, with over 80,000 people participating in 465 educational events and activities nationwide. Volunteers contributed nearly 100,000 hours of conservation work, valued at more than £1 million. The programme has also supported the equivalent of 60 full-time jobs in conservation, demonstrating positive economic impacts alongside ecological gains.