Historic hedgerows improved for wildlife

We are working together to bring traditional hedgelaying skills to the towpath that will breathe new life into canal’s centuries-old hedgeline, making it more attractive and better for wildlife.

The works

Hedgerows are invaluable for a wide range of species including field mice, voles and hedgehogs as well as a variety of birds and even amphibians. Along canals, with their abundance of wildlife and linear routes, the hedges provide corridors safe from the threat of predators and an important source of food. However, if left unmanaged the hedgerow will simply grow upwards and become a line of separate trees, leaving wildlife vulnerable to predators and the elements.

To prevent this, contractors will be carrying out hedgelaying, using traditional techniques which involve cutting stems and bending them so that over time they grow horizontally and intertwine, forming a thick, bushy barrier. Local volunteers will also have the opportunity to help deliver the habitat improvements.

The works are being carried out as part of a wider project that has seen 2km of canal towpath in the town improved for boaters and local people. Funding for the project has come from the Department for Transport through Sustrans’ Paths For Everyone programme as well as a Section 106 contribution from the Wellington Place housing development through Harborough District Council.

Protecting habitats

Richard Bennett, our heritage & environment manager, said: “The growing threat of habitat loss means that our waterways are an increasingly important haven for wildlife, and canalside hedgerows give many of our most cherished species a valuable lifeline.

“Canal hedges are often amongst the oldest, making them particularly valuable for wildlife. That’s why our work to keep canals alive and protect habitats such as hedgerows, is so important.

“The works will showcase this ancient countryside skill to people enjoying the new towpath and will soon reinvigorate the hedgerow, making them healthier, stronger and better for some of our best loved species.”

Sustainable and vibrant spaces

Clare Maltby, Sustrans’ England Director Midlands, and East: "We’re committed to promoting sustainable and vibrant spaces across the National Cycle Network, so it’s great to be working with the Canal & River Trust to improve these canal side habitats. Hedgerows have a crucial role in supporting healthier, stronger, and more diverse ecosystems. They also make the National Cycle Network an even more attractive place to be, providing a further reason to choose active travel. This is just one of the many improvements our Paths for Everyone programme is helping to deliver right across the country. Investment in active travel delivers so many benefits to the community, and it’s vital this continues.”

Many stretches of canalside hedgerow are over 200 years old and are the canals oldest established habitat. They would originally have been planted by 18th century private canal owners to protect the towpath from cattle and other livestock.