Case Study: Habitat Bank Creation - Worcestershire
Transforming Arable Land into a Thriving Ecological Landscape
Location: Worcestershire
Scope: Installation of a 17-hectare Habitat Bank, delivering a comprehensive programme of habitat creation and infrastructure works.
Located in the Worcestershire countryside, the site lay adjacent to ancient woodland, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and a local Wildlife Trust reserve — making it a strategically important location for biodiversity recovery and landscape connectivity.
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Scope of Works
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Species-Rich Lowland Meadow Creation – Establishment of floristically rich grassland using locally sourced, brush-harvested seed across both arable and improved pasture.
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Excavation of Ponds – Excavation of 3 permanent ponds to create habitat for waders, amphibians, and aquatic invertebrates.
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Scrub and Hedgerow Planting – Structured planting of over 10,000 plants across the site comprising of trees, mixed scrub and hedge whips.
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Traditional Orchard Creation – The planting of 65 traditional orchard trees protected by bespoke made wooden stockades.
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Stock Fencing – The erection of 4,500 metres of stock proof fencing to facilitate low-intensity grazing, integrating habitat management with ongoing farm operations.
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Water Pipe Installation - The installation of 1,200 metres of water pipe with above ground hydrants in order to connect with low-impact, dragable livestock troughs to minimise soil compaction and poaching.
Overcoming Constraints
A key challenge was addressing historic soil erosion, particularly on steep boundary banks. To stabilise the site and support vegetation establishment, we implemented a phased seeding strategy:
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Undersowing with barley to quickly bind the soil and reduce erosion
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Followed by application of a native wildflower meadow mix to deliver long-term biodiversity value and ground cover
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This method successfully stabilised the site, enhanced soil health, and provided ideal conditions for habitat establishment.
Outcomes and Long-Term Benefits
Through the successful delivery of key infrastructure and habitat works, Field and Estate has played a central role in transforming the 17-hectare Martley Habitat Bank from intensively managed arable land into a resilient, ecologically rich landscape. Our team’s expertise in land preparation, planting, and sustainable infrastructure has ensured the long-term functionality of the site as a high-value habitat and a benchmark for nature-based solutions in landscape-scale restoration.​
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“Field and Estate delivered the Martley Habitat Bank works to an exceptional standard. Their professionalism, attention to detail, and ability to adapt to site challenges made them a reliable and valuable delivery partner throughout the project."
— James, Project Manager
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