CSA were originally approached by Hartlebury Castle Preservation Trust in 2021 to undertake ecological surveys to support the planning and installation of an outdoor natural adventure playground within the castle grounds. The castle is a fascinating site, previously home to the ‘warring’ Bishops of Worcester for over a 1000 years, from 855 to 2007!
Our team has been now been appointed by the Trust to compile a long term ecological strategy for the whole estate. This will enable appropriate decisions to be made for the restoration of heritage features, such as the moat, and managing areas for wildlife and visitor access. The grounds include a fishing lake and ponds; coppice and derelict woodland; historic parkland and pasture and an orchard with 400 year old mulberry trees.
We will be mapping the area and making recommendations for enhancing the biodiversity, alongside reinstating heritage features and providing public access allowing the site to be enjoyed by visitors and locals over the long term.