Rewilding in Gloucestershire

Throughout my life, I have walked to see trees, wild flowers, birds and much more. This afternoon, I walked five miles through the fields and on the lanes, noting down all I could see. Most of my teaching career has been in rural locations. But even when I taught in cities, I always referenced the urban wildlife.

I taught ecology in Gloucestershire for many years and so I was delighted to hear about a new research project at the University of Gloucestershire aimed at improving of wellbeing and health in urban areas. 

Dr Alesso Russo a senior lecturer in landscape architecture, is leading the project. He is especially focussed on the use of rewilding to improve communities. He will coordinate the project with support from Dr Alice Goodenough from the University’s Countryside and Community Research Institute and Adam Sheppard, senior lecturer in Urban Planning and Design. 

The university has been awarded £40,000 from RECLAIM Network Plus which will create twelve UK-based projects, focussing on creating sustainable, healthy and liveable urban systems. It is hosting a three-day workshop, Urban Rebuilding International, at the beginning of March. Speakers include experts on inclusive public spaces.

I’m so happy about this – I hope the idea spreads. It would be great to see rewilding in Gloucester and Cheltenham. Perhaps even Bourton-on-the-Water.