CRT works with Heathland Connections to restore heathland areas The CRT is delighted to join forces with Heathland Connections – a collaborative effort involving a wide range of organisations to restore, enhance and connect heathland areas that are often fragmented or in need of care. Our conservation team has been working with the project, funded by Natural England, to help restore and connect vital heathland habitats at Green Farm and Pierrepont Farm in Surrey. What is Heathland Connections? Heathland Connections is one of twelve large-scale Nature Recovery projects being delivered across England. By supporting landowners in managing these precious habitats, the project aims to create a network of thriving, wildlife-rich sites that help preserve the distinctive character of the Surrey landscape, while contributing to the UK’s broader biodiversity goals. The Project Partners The Heathland Connections initiative is a collaborative effort that involves a wide range of organisations, including: Surrey Wildlife Trust The National Trust Land App Surrey Hills National Landscape Surrey County Council Waverley Borough Council Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust RSPB Hampton Estate The CRT's Role in Heathland Connections The CRT's Head of Conservation Helena Darragh Helena Darragh, The CRT’s Head of Conservation, said: “The Heathland Connections project has been an invaluable opportunity to enhance our land management strategies. “At Green Farm and Pierrepont, we are focusing on restoring heathland habitats and exploring ways to connect these areas to neighbouring sites. This is particularly important in an age of climate change, as fragmented habitats can hinder species movement and reduce biodiversity.” Helena said one of the key aspects of the CRT’s involvement has been the creation and maintenance of wildlife corridors. “These corridors—such as scrubby areas and wildflower-rich zones—allow species that rely on heathlands to move more freely across our farm and between different heathland sites. This connectivity is crucial for maintaining healthy, resilient ecosystems that can better withstand environmental pressures,” she said. “Being part of the Heathland Connections project has also allowed us to forge stronger connections with neighbouring landowners and organisations. This collaboration has opened new funding opportunities and provided invaluable advice and support. We are no longer working in isolation but are part of a larger, coordinated effort to restore and protect heathland habitats in Surrey.” A Broader Impact on Nature Recovery The broader impact of this project is significant. By enhancing and connecting heathland habitats, it not only benefits local biodiversity but also contributes to wider efforts to combat climate change. “Our work at Green Farm and Pierrepont Farm plays a crucial role in ensuring that Surrey’s heathlands remain resilient to future challenges, while also enhancing the beauty and productivity of the landscape,” says Helena. More ways to support us If you want to help us protect local wildlife and habitats in other ways you can join as a CRT Friend, attend our in-person and online events and volunteer on one of our farms. You can also sign-up to our monthly newsletter 'CRT News' for regular updates from our farms, straight to your inbox. Join Events Volunteer News Published: January 2025 Manage Cookie Preferences