Objectives of the scheme

Establish a Nature Reserve

Safeguard the land as a sanctuary for native wildlife, enhancing biodiversity and contributing to local nature recovery.

Continue to farm the land.Conduct surveys to improve knowledge and measure impact.Create an environmental management plan to set goals and guide management.Adopt sustainable land management practices to improve and diversify habitats.

Community Engagement

Create a lasting benefit for the local community through permissive access and participation in positive action for nature.

A permissive footpath will be created to enable people to experience and enjoy the nature reserve.

Opportunities for people to get involved through volunteering to help manage and maintain the land, fundraising and events, surveying etc.

Updates on progress and celebrating milestones/achievements.

Strengthen community sense of place and connection to nature

Educational Access

Facilitate use of Town End Field by Great Ouseburn School, promoting health, environmental awareness and nature connection.

Approximately 0.5 acre will be set aside solely for use by the school as a playing field as well as access to the nature reserve.Pupils will have space to play and learn in a natural environment.Opportunity to explore a variety of habitats.Participate in hands-on activities such as tree planting.Learn about the environment and sustainability.

"To have our own playing field would be an absolute game changer for the children at Great Ouseburn Primary School."
Nick Oswald
Headteacher at Great Ouseburn Primary School

Protect Landscape Character

The views the land affords are a significant feature of the village and are specifically mentioned in the village 'Conservation Area Character Appraisal'.

UOCT to manage the land in perpetuity as a nature reserve.

Maintain the land as a ‘green’ space.

Gather a history of Townend Field to inform management and engage people.

Strengthen community links with local heritage and natural history.

Outline Plan to Achieve Objectives

  • Secure funding to make an offer and complete the purchase of the land – Deadline 28th February 2025.
  • Ensure financial sustainability for UOCT and Townend Field (eg. Land rent, government subsidies, green finance etc).
  • Identify conservation objectives through management plan.
  • Encourage and grow community participation in all aspects of UOCT.
  • Fundraising to deliver agreed outcomes. (Eg. donations, crowdfunding and grants).
  • Develop mutually beneficial relationships with local businesses, schools and environmental organisations.