NEWS: New meadow restoration project to boost nature recovery and volunteer opportunities

A new meadow restoration project will help boost the recovery of grassland into a more diverse wildflower meadow.  

The £9,469 project at Hallow Fields, Grimley, Worcestershire, is supported by Malvern Hills District Council and Funded by the Severn Waste Services Community Action Fund.  

The initiative aims to strengthen local volunteer capacity, whilst improving the condition of the site, with focus on the site’s marsh field, a floodplain meadow habitat with significant restoration potential.  

Funding will provide the tools, equipment and training needed for volunteers to carry out essential conservation work.    

Project work will include:  

• Cutting back tough and invasive species which are currently limiting the meadow’s biodiversity.  

• Spreading wildflower seed, helping to create a richer and more resilient meadow for insects and other wildlife.  

Jeremy Owenson, Portfolio Holder for Environment at Malvern Hills District Council said: “This funding will help to grow and develop the capacity of volunteers at Hallow Fields, allowing them to take positive action for wildlife within their local community, and enjoy the social and wellbeing benefits.  

“The Hallow Fields project will not only enhance a well-loved local green space but also establish a practical habitat restoration volunteer group with the skills and confidence to support nature recovery for years to come.”  

Cheryl Raynor, Grant Manager at FCC Communities Foundation said “We are delighted to support this important meadow restoration project at Hallow Fields through the Severn Waste Services Community Action Fund. The project will not only enhance biodiversity and help create a thriving wildflower meadow, but it will also provide valuable opportunities for local volunteers to develop practical conservation skills and play an active role in nature recovery. We look forward to seeing the positive environmental and community benefits this project will deliver for years to come.” 

FCC Communities Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation that distributes grants for community projects through the Landfill Communities Fund, supported by Severn Waste Services. 

Hallow Fields is a 45-acre community nature reserve, with open access 24 hours via the public rights of way, visit www.malvernhills.gov.uk/hallow-fields for more information. 

 Published 28 July 2026.