Durham Hedgerow Partnership – Costello 2008/0042

Many of Durhams hedgerows are in poor condition, with neglect and mismanagement becoming an increasing treat to the decline of this BAP habitat. The project aims to help conserve these important features by providing financial assistant to farmers and landowners within the Durham Biodiversity Partnership area which covers the local authorities areas of County Durham, Gateshead, South Tyneside, Sunderland & Darlington.

The project promotes the restoration of hedgerows through the traditional practises of laying, coppicing and inter-planting, targeting schemes which will generate the greatest benefits to the landscape and the historical and wildlife value of the hedges. New planting schemes are also encouraged where it brings particular benefits to restoring landscape character, enhancing biodiversity or connecting BAP habitats.The number of visitors to the site is difficult to establish but the site is highly visible from the highway and public footpaths on the site.