This project with three years' funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund has been gathering pace for several months with staff and volunteers now in place, activities and volunteer work parties planned for future work. Designed to inspire people to understand, care for and take action for the precious green spaces that envelop the urban Luton landscape, it has communities at its heart, using creative ways to engage diverse audiences and forge a new sense of place and belonging within the local green spaces.
Bradgers Hill is a hidden gem on the outskirts of the Bushmead Estate in Luton. A lush grassland habitat for significant wildlife and plants, this belt of green space has been utilised by humans for centuries, still bearing markings from medieval farming. Surrounded by the rolling North Chilterns Chalk hills, the fast-expanding urban landscape of Luton is a bustling community, which will be the focus of the project, both for inspiration and engagement, with a strong connection to the landscape. Alongside partner Luton Borough Council and volunteer community group Friends of Bradger’s Hill, the Trust will be delivering heritage and nature engagement activities.
The Trust's Communities Officer Noreen Iqbal said: “We had a great day with some lovely feedback; everyone enjoyed the activities that we ran at the Bushmead Community Hub as well as the guided walks out on Bradgers Hill. It was great that Sarah Owen, N Luton MP came along to lend her support. We look forward to building a sense of community and pride in this lovely local green space. As well as the conservation work outdoors, we're currently working with three schools, emphasising the importance of the natural environment and caring for it."
