Our Chippenham Habitat Bank is ideally situated for us to connect vital local landscapes located within Lyneham Strategic Nature Area. We’re transforming the previously arable land along the Cade Burna River corridor into a beautiful, biodiverse space teeming with native flora and fauna.

Following a thorough assessment of the site's vegetation, wildlife, geology, hydrology, soil chemistry, management history, and landscape connectivity, we determined the best possible habitats to establish and made sure these enhancements would be deliverable. We established an ecological baseline for the site using Defra’s biodiversity metric, so we can clearly demonstrate biodiversity gains over time.

This assessment enables us to generate a range of high-integrity Biodiversity Unit habitat types that will ensure robust ecological outcomes. We also offer planning support to make sure our Biodiversity Units provide an effective local BNG delivery solution for developers within the Wiltshire Council LPA area or Avon Vales NCA. Our Units are ready to purchase now, subject to availability.

The Chippenham Habitat Bank covers a vast expanse of nearly 70 hectares. The site lies just to the south of nine Local Wildlife Sites, consisting of a variety of meadow and woodland habitats.  

As part of the project, we are transforming a series arable fields and isolated woodlands into a diverse mosaic of wildflower grassland, native mixed scrub, woodland, ponds, and wetland habitats. These habitats will provide a myriad of opportunities for increasing abundance and expanding populations of local species.  

There is a public bridleway which crosses the Chippenham Habitat Bank. This will enable visitors from the local community to watch as the space transforms over the years. We’re truly thrilled that they will be able to experience such a biodiverse green space thrive before their very eyes.