CambridgePPF’s most ambitious project is the creation of a major new nature reserve on the western edge of Cambridge. Our aim is to transform 200 acres of farmland into a richly layered landscape alive with colour, sound and wildlife.
This future reserve will reduce flood risk, support climate resilience and provide space for wellbeing for the Cambridge community. From the hilltop there will be wide views across flower-filled meadows; hedgerows, scrub and woodland will hum with insects and birdsong; and streams and ponds will teem with life.
Over winter, our team has been laying the groundwork for that vision.
Woodland and Scrub
We have planted 1,300 trees east of the M11, creating five acres of new woodland and scrub. Following last summer’s drought, 700 trees were replanted in Manor Field and 500 on Red Meadow Hill.
Planting is only the beginning. Young woodland near Coton Footpath, planted in 2004, has been carefully thinned to strengthen its long-term health. Scrub planted in 2005 on Red Meadow Hill has also been managed to ensure it develops into valuable habitat.
Hedgerows
The reserve contains over five kilometres of hedgerows. Some are historic and ecologically rich; others are newer and being shaped for maximum wildlife benefit.
This winter, staff and volunteers have been laying the hedge beside the Reserve car park. Hedge laying, a traditional rural craft, encourages dense growth at the base and incorporates deadwood, creating vital shelter for birds and mammals. Before wire fencing, this technique also kept livestock contained.
Over the past decade, 700 metres of hedge have been laid at Coton. On your next visit, see if you can spot the difference.
Meadows
Our Belted Galloway cows were moved from Wandlebury to Coton, where they have helped control scrub and coarse grasses, improving meadow diversity. Repairs to fencing ensured grazing could continue safely and effectively.
Thanks to a grant from Cambridge Water, we will also establish a temporary flower meadow beside the car park this spring. It will provide nectar for pollinators, followed by seed heads to sustain birds through autumn and winter.
Wetlands
Behind the scenes, we continue working with Anglian Water and Norfolk Rivers Trust on plans for a significant new wetland at the reserve. We hope this next phase will begin later this year.
Coton is changing steadily, season by season. What is now farmland will become a living, resilient landscape for people and wildlife alike.
