Residents of the Canterbury District are being invited to work with Kent Wildlife Trust and their partners as they establish the Wilder Blean Community Advisory Group to help shape a co-designed vision for the Blean woods.
The charity is seeking to establish two community focus groups for anyone in the area interested in giving their views, opinions and ideas on the future of the Blean. One of the groups will be for adults and the other, the Wilder Blean Youth Advisory Group for those aged between 14 to 18 (parental consent required).
Kent Wildlife Trust is working in partnership with Woodland Trust and RSPB to take the Wilder Blean Initiative to the next phase.
Famed for the bison reintroduction with Wildwood Trust the organisation is now setting its sights on a bigger vision, which involves working towards connecting the fragmented habits across the Blean landscape, from Hoath to Chartham Hatch. By working with other landowners, community groups and charities to secure the future of the Blean and become a place not only visited for its outstanding wildlife and scenic woodlands but also recognised for its positive social and economic opportunities for the community.
Those interested in taking part are invited to attend one of three sessions planned at the Canterbury Umbrella Centre between 6pm and 8pm on the following dates, tea, coffee, pizza and pasties will be provided:
- Wilder Blean Community Advisory Group - Wednesday, 24th April – register here
- Wilder Blean Youth Advisory Group - Thursday 16th May (young people 14 to 18 years, parental consent required) – register here
Kent Wildlife Trust’s Sara Valencia says: “This is an opportunity to be part of something special in Canterbury and make a meaningful difference to the local community. We want people to share their views and passion and work with us to take meaningful action for nature.”
For more information contact Sara by emailing sara.valencia@kentwildlife.org.uk
If you would like to learn more about the Wilder Blean Initiative visit our website.