National Trust and National Highways conserving iconic sites

More than £1.2 million is being invested in two projects aimed at improving Gloucestershire's landscape.

The National Trust will manage the projects, funded by National Highways, to benefit people, nature, and cultural heritage.

One of the projects, backed by £516,000 from the Environment and Wellbeing fund, will improve connectivity for communities and visitors by improving access to six public rights of way that link to the Cotswold Way National Trail, including Coaley Peak and Standish Woods.

The other project will use £700,000 to restore the Crickley Hill Ramparts, a scheduled ancient monument.

It will also fund the conservation and improvement of nearly 1.5 kilometres of drystone walling across several sites in the Cotswolds, including Newark Park, and the restoration of the Boundary Court barn.

National Highways is also currently working on the A417 Missing Link scheme, creating a three-mile dual carriageway on a stretch of road between Gloucester and Cirencester.

Jess Dudley, designated funds project manager, said: "Our work goes beyond operating, maintaining, and improving roads, and through our Environmental and Wellbeing fund, we're investing in the environment and communities surrounding our network.

"We’re delighted to be able to support such worthwhile projects which will help to support and reconnect the A417 with local heritage and the landscape whilst also helping to keep traditional skills alive.

"This is a glowing example of how this funding and partnership working can make life better for communities and the environment around our roads."

The projects aim to conserve and restore these features of the Cotswold landscape, protect habitats for invertebrates and birds, and increase accessibility for visitors.

Together, they aim to improve how people experience the landscape and boost people's wellbeing by allowing greater access to natural green space.

The work will also contribute to preserving traditional crafting skills, provide habitats for wildlife, and help to improve views across the region by better integrating the A417 with the natural surroundings.

Work is underway on both projects, and they are expected to be completed by March 2025.

Jonny Loose, general manager for the Cotswolds at the National Trust, said: "These access and conservation projects create a fantastic opportunity for us to welcome more people to the Cotswolds and for them to immerse themselves in this iconic landscape.

"Our project team has already started working with an amazing group of volunteers and drystone wall specialists using traditional methods to restore sections of walling near the Cotswold Way and the historic walls at Newark Park."