WITH TWO ancient woodlands and a selection of old hedges, the site will see an explosion of nature recolonising the ecologically degraded ex- agricultural fields as natural processes are re-established.

Harold’s Park Wildland will become one of the leading nature sites in the region and is the third site owned by Nattergal. The 206-hectare Green Belt site is steeped in history and boasts fantastic views of the London skyline. The plan is to transform the low productivity arable fields, intensive grassland and Christmas tree plantations into an abundance of biodiversity and wildlife.

Nattergal chose this site because of the unique combination of its history and potential for nature restoration. They plan to return it to wood pasture, reminiscent of the ancient deer parks from 1,000 years ago.

Nature will be given a helping hand In the early stages, but for the most part, nature will take the lead, as free-roaming ancient breed cattle, pigs and ponies are re-introduced to shape and drive the ecosystems.

Harold’s Park Wildland will also be a habitat bank that developers can pay into when they are not able to meet the required Biodiversity Net Gain on their own sites, a win for both nature and housing.

BNG was introduced by the Environment Act 2021. It requires developers to ensure new proposals feature at least 10% improvement to biodiversity. Developers can buy off-site BNG units from Nattergal which must be registered on the government’s BNG register, ensuring developers are compliant with their BNG obligations.

Councillor Ken Williamson, responsible for Shaping our District at Epping Forest District Council said:

I’m thrilled to announce the first wildland site in the Epping Forest district at Harold’s Park in Nazeing.

This is great news for the grassland and woodland habitats at Harold’s Park with hotspots of life all around the land. The site is ripe for rewilding.

Habitat interventions have begun, including the use of wildflower seed and lovely green hay from sites managed by our own CountryCare team.

Epping Forest District Council now has a BNG habitat bank on the national register, supporting our local nature recovery strategies while creating and enhancing natural habitats.