Hedgerows provide important habitat and food for wildlife. Historically hedgerows in Britain have been planted with food producing plants. Berries are an essential food for overwintering birds and small mammals, while flowers provide nectar for pollinating insects. They are also vital corridors for wildlife to move along, including bats which use them to find their way around whilst echo locating and hunting at night.

In the past hedges have been cut twice each year, avoiding the bird nesting season (March-August). Sometimes extra cutting is required due to health and safety requirements, or for road visibility issues.

Our research shows that if this was changed we can increase the biodiversity of hedgerows. Less cutting dramatically increases berry production and flowers.

We are drawing up a hedgerow management plan. This will identify hedges where there are no encroachment or visibility concerns that can then be cut less often. We can also identify trees in hedges that can be left to grow, look at planting new hedges to create wildlife corridors, fill in gaps in hedges and lay suitable hedges.