Hedgerow Planting Success at The Oval

Over the course of two incredible days during National Tree Week, The Oval Bandstand & Lawns was transformed as volunteers came together to plant a vibrant multi-species hedgerow. This initiative, funded by The Tree Council’s Branching Out Fund, marks the first significant milestone in GRASS Cliftonville CIC’s Nature Recovery Plan, which aims to enhance biodiversity and ecological resilience across our 4.2-acre community space.  

The Vision for a Greener Oval

The new multi-species hedgerow spans 250 metres and has been carefully designed to complement The Oval’s existing single-species hedge. This project is about more than just planting trees; it’s about creating a sustainable, wildlife-friendly space that benefits both the community and local ecosystems.  

By introducing a wider range of native species, including hazel, blackthorn, holly, and rowan, the hedgerow will provide food, shelter, and vital corridors for birds, insects, and small mammals. It also forms part of our larger vision to establish wildlife corridors, tiny forests, and a wellness garden, contributing to a thriving natural environment.  

Planning for Coastal Challenges

Planting at a coastal site like The Oval comes with unique challenges. Exposure to strong winds and salt air can make it difficult for new plants to establish. However, thanks to nutrient-rich soil and expert advice, we selected species that are well-suited to coastal conditions.  

In the wellness garden, located just four metres from the cliff edge, the hedgerow will act as a natural windbreak, protecting more delicate plants while adding seasonal interest to the area. Careful planning and ground preparation ensured the saplings were planted in optimal conditions, with a sheet mulching system applied to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health.  

A Thoughtful Approach

The hedgerow spans four areas, covering a total of 350 square metres. These areas include 112m² along First Avenue, 96m² and 35m² along Eastern Esplanade, and 135m² in the wellness garden. The hedgerow was planted in double-staggered rows, designed to increase its width to around 2.5 metres and significantly enhance its ecological value.  

To ensure a thriving hedge, we selected a diverse range of native species. With advice from experts, we chose plants such as hazel, blackthorn, crab apple, holly, rowan, and wild cherry. These species are well-suited to coastal environments, providing essential habitats and food sources for local wildlife. Ground preparation included clearing and cultivating the soil, followed by planting saplings with 50cm spacing. A sustainable sheet mulching system, using cardboard and organic mulch, was applied to improve soil health, retain moisture, and suppress weeds.  

Maintaining the Hedgerow

The care and maintenance of the new hedgerow will ensure its success as a vital ecological feature. Regular pruning will take place in late winter to encourage lateral growth and promote flower and berry production, essential for supporting wildlife. Manual weeding will be carried out by volunteers to eliminate the need for chemical weed control, and mulch will be replenished annually using clippings from the existing hedge.  

Watering will be especially critical during the first two years to establish healthy root systems. For this purpose, we’ll use our on-site water supply, supported by a 600-litre motorised water tank towed by a lawnmower tractor, ensuring efficient irrigation during dry periods. Ongoing monitoring will be conducted as part of The Oval’s Nature Recovery Plan, with regular inspections to address any gaps, replant as necessary, and undertake corrective pruning.  

A Community-Led Effort

The success of this project was built on the incredible efforts of our volunteers. Families, individuals, and members of the Thanet Green Party turned out in force, contributing their time and energy to plant over 750 native saplings. Seeing people of all ages, from schoolchildren to retirees, working together to improve their local environment was truly inspiring.  

Special thanks go to Hope Grove Nurseries for supplying the saplings, the Thanet Green Party, whose enthusiastic volunteers made it all possible, and to The Tree Council, whose Branching Out Fund provided the financial support to make this project possible.  

As Simon Bell, Director of GRASS Cliftonville CIC, put it:  “This weekend was a fantastic example of what can be achieved when a community comes together. The new hedgerow will not only look beautiful but will also provide vital habitats for wildlife, supporting biodiversity for years to come.”  

Looking Ahead

The multi-species hedgerow is just one part of our Nature Recovery Plan, which will continue to deliver projects aimed at enhancing biodiversity and supporting local wildlife. Upcoming initiatives include planting tiny forests, expanding our wellness garden, and establishing more wildlife corridors across The Oval.  

We’re also working to engage the community further, inviting local residents and schools to take part in future projects. These efforts not only improve the environment but also foster a sense of ownership and pride in our shared community space.  

Get Involved

We’re always looking for volunteers to help with ongoing projects. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a complete beginner, there’s a place for you in our Ecology Group. Together, we can create a greener, more sustainable future for Cliftonville.  

To read more about our hedgerow planting project and the Nature Recovery Plan, visit: www.theovalbandstand.co.uk/nature-recovery-plan