A major restoration at Brockenhurst Park Estate, supported by the New Forest National Park Authority (NPA), is reviving lost historic parkland features and local biodiversity.
The Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme, run locally by the NPA, has provided over £23,000 to re-establish the lime avenue and historic parkland, which has lost more than 120 trees over the past century. So far, 130 native trees, including lime and oak, have been planted.
During dry periods, the estate uses around 6,000 litres of water each week to keep young trees alive. Last year, drought killed 10 newly planted trees. To tackle increasingly dry summers and demonstrate climate-resilient land management, FiPL funding has enabled the estate to invest in a shredder turning green waste into composted mulch. This retains moisture around tree roots, reduces water loss, and offers a better chance of survival.
The mulch heaps also create valuable breeding habitat for grass snakes and slow worms, with careful seasonal management to avoid disturbing the reptiles and their eggs. Together with the tree planting, these efforts will support up to 280 species of insects and a wide range of birds, bats, and lichens.
Paul Walton, Head of Environment and Rural Economy at the New Forest National Park Authority, said: ‘This isn’t just about restoring a beautiful landscape, it’s about adapting to today’s environmental realities. Brockenhurst Park is showing how heritage, sustainability, and biodiversity can go hand in hand.’
The restoration is part of the wider Net Zero with Nature programme, which supports landowners across the New Forest in tackling biodiversity loss and contributing to national climate goals.
Estate Manager, Sam Haynes said: ‘We’re proud to be restoring Brockenhurst Park’s historic landscape while making space for nature and building resilience against climate change. It’s a long-term investment in both our environment and our heritage.’
Farming in Protected Landscapes, a national programme from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), was originally launched in July 2021. Since then, almost £1 million has been invested in the New Forest, with projects assessed by a Local Assessment Panel. The funds help farmers, commoners, and landowners improve natural habitats, cultural heritage, public access, and farm resilience across the National Park.