Sopley Common grazing- Wildlife Trust seeks your views

Dorset Wildlife Trust wants to hear the views of locals about one of east Dorset’s lesser known but nationally and internationally important heathlands. Sopley Common, at Hurn, is a haven for some of the rarest wildlife in Britain and one of the most atmospheric and peaceful heathland sites, despite the proximity of the A338 and the intermittent roar of jets from nearby Bournemouth Airport. The Common, beloved of locals and wildlife alike, is home to Britain’s only year-round resident warbler, the Dartford warbler, as well as the sand lizard, not only the rarest lizard in Britain but also the most spectacular when in its bright green breeding colours. With an exceptional number of different insects and spiders as well as special plants of this habitat, Sopley Common is protected by law as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

How can I get involved?

Now Dorset Wildlife Trust hopes to restore the old tradition of grazing, which originally helped to create the Common as it is today, and would prevent it from being overtaken by invasive scrub and trees. Nigel Brooks, Dorset Wildlife Trust warden, said: “Sopley Common was created by the actions of man in the past and we have to continue to manage it to prevent it from deteriorating as a habitat. We hope to do this by the traditional and proven method of introducing grazing, taking Sopley back to its roots.”

Before grazing by a small number of hardy cattle can begin, fencing would need to be erected, with gates allowing public access to continue. Existing Rights of Common would not be affected. Dorset Wildlife Trust wardens are inviting local residents, all those with Rights of Common and anybody who has an interest in Sopley Common to come and meet them at a consultation event to talk about any concerns they may have. Nigel added: “We have found light grazing to work well on other sites, keeping scrub down and opening up areas for delicate plants to flourish. People enjoy seeing the cattle and often volunteer to help with checking them, which is done every day.”

The Sopley Common consultation evening will be on Monday 22nd November at Hurn Bridge Sports and Social Club, where wardens will be available between 4pm and 8pm to answer your questions. For more details, please ring Dorset Wildlife Trust on 01202 692033.

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Notes to Editor

For more information please contact Nigel Brooks at Dorset Wildlife Trust on 01202 692033.
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About Dorset Wildlife Trust www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk
Dorset Wildlife Trust was founded in 1961 to protect the wildlife and natural habitats of the county and now has over 25,000 members and manages over 40 nature reserves. Most are open daily and there are visitor centres providing a wealth of wildlife information at Brooklands Farm, Lorton Meadows, Kingcombe Meadows and Brownsea Island Nature Reserves, The Purbeck Marine Wildlife Reserve and the Urban Wildlife Centre at Upton Heath Nature Reserve.

The largest voluntary nature conservation organisation in Dorset, DWT plays a key role in dealing with local environmental issues. It leads the way in establishing the practices of sustainable development and engaging new audiences in conservation, particularly in the urban areas.