Five-year wildlife restoration project approved in Cumbernauld
It builds on the previous Creating Natural Connections project.
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The funding includes £2.6 million from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The goal is to plant thousands of trees and sow tens of thousands of wildflowers across Cumbernauld, with local volunteers playing a crucial role in these efforts.
The project includes managing more than 330 hectares of woodland, enhancing over 20 hectares of wildflower meadows, and removing invasive non-native species threatening Cumbernauld's native wildlife.
Tracy Lambert, project manager for Cumbernauld Living Landscape at the Scottish Wildlife Trust, said: "From the bluebell displays of Cumbernauld Glen to the river woodlands of Luggiebank, Cumbernauld is home to so much incredible wildlife.
"Sadly, however, much of it is in poor condition and needs a helping hand.
"For over 10 years, we've proudly worked alongside local communities to restore the town's green spaces, and we're excited to begin our next chapter with Nurturing Natural Connections."
The project also aims to equip local people with advanced skills and deliver citizen science projects to support North Lanarkshire Council's Local Biodiversity Action Plan.
Six full-time jobs and six trainee opportunities will also be created over the life of the project.
The initiative will support the town's infrastructure by promoting green infrastructure in Community Growth Areas and the planned redevelopment of the town centre.
Nature-based solutions will be implemented to tackle issues around flooding, drought, and wildfires.
Ms Lambert added: "We've seen the devastation caused by the nature and climate crises first-hand here in Cumbernauld, particularly with the recent storms and wildfires.
"However, we've also seen how powerful nature can be in helping us recover.
"By implementing nature-based solutions to some of today's biggest challenges, we can build a town that thrives in tandem with the natural environment."
Eilish McGuinness, chief executive of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: "This is a game-changing project for Cumbernauld.
"With nearly £3 million funding thanks to National Lottery players, the Nurturing Natural Connections project is set to transform the town's vital green spaces and places — connecting the community to nature and natural heritage on the doorstep.
"Led by the Scottish Wildlife Trust, this powerful partnership is restoring wildlife, planting thousands of trees and wildflowers, and unlocking the health and wellbeing benefits of nature for the whole community.
"It's about creating a thriving, greener Cumbernauld — now and for generations to come."
The project is a partnership between the Scottish Wildlife Trust, North Lanarkshire Council, The Conservation Volunteers, and Sanctuary Scotland.
The £2.62 million funding follows the successful delivery of a comprehensive development programme, which included £181,200 Heritage Fund support thanks to National Lottery players.
The work will begin this month and is set to be completed by June 2030.
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