In a unique move, a group of wildlife charities have come together to create a ‘showplace for nature recovery’, after securing the largest land sale in England for over 30 years. This historic transaction involves the purchase of a rural estate with the aim of preserving and enhancing its natural habitats.
The Wildlife Trusts, in partnership with Northumberland Wildlife Trust, has acquired the sprawling 3,800-hectare Rothbury estate in the north-east of England. This impressive tract of land, equivalent to 9,400 acres, was previously owned by the Duke of Northumberland’s son, Lord Max Percy. The estate, which has been in the family for seven centuries, was once used for game shooting and sheep rearing.
With this monumental purchase, the era of hunting on this land comes to an end. Instead, the focus will be on regenerative farming, supporting sustainable practices that promote environmental health and biodiversity. The change in ownership denotes a new chapter in the estate’s long history.
As part of a two-phase acquisition, the charities have already secured a significant portion of the Rothbury estate. This includes the picturesque Simonside Hills, an appealing mix of lowland areas, woodlands, riverfronts, and farmland. A public appeal has been initiated to raise £30m to facilitate the purchase of the remainder of the estate. The land is home to a variety of notable wildlife species, including the curlew, red grouse, merlin, cuckoo, mountain bumblebee, emperor moth, and red squirrels.
The Wildlife Trusts’ Chief Executive, Craig Bennett, expressed excitement over this development. He stated, “This is a thrilling moment for The Wildlife Trusts, as we join forces from across the UK. For the first time, we are creating a national flagship for nature recovery. It’s a historic moment for our federation.”
Image: Duncan Hutt
