Timberland Wild Fen

We are thrilled to share an exciting opportunity to acquire and protect two adjacent parcels of farmland on Timberland Fen — Plot 1 (approximately 62.33 acres) and Plot 2 (approximately 10.71 acres) — with the vision of transforming them into a permanently protected nature reserve and vibrant community green space.

Situated on the outskirts of Timberland village in North Kesteven, Lincolnshire, the site lies within a peaceful rural parish surrounded by essential local amenities, including a pub, church, and green. The area is just over 6 miles from Woodhall Spa, 12 miles from Sleaford, and 16 miles from the historic Cathedral City of Lincoln.

This vision was sparked when these parcels of land came up for sale — inspiring a group of local residents to dream big. We saw the potential to not only protect these fields for wildlife but also to create a shared space for our community to thrive alongside nature. Our dream is to establish a modern-day “common,” where land is shared and cared for collectively, offering both ecological and social value.

Two Sites, One Unified Vision

Plot 1 (62.33 acres): To be dedicated primarily to wildlife, this larger site will become a nature-first reserve, restored and managed to support priority species such as Turtle Doves, Water Voles, and Great Crested Newts. Habitat restoration will enhance biodiversity, preserve ecological integrity, and create a haven for wetland species in an increasingly threatened landscape.

Plot 1 Plans

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Overview Map

Plot 1

Plot 2 (10.71 acres): This smaller area will be more people-focused, developed into a welcoming space for community allotments, natural play, mindfulness walks, environmental education, and peaceful connection with nature.

Plot 2 Plans

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Overview Map

Plot 2

Together, these spaces will serve as both sanctuary and classroom — a place for walking, watching wildlife, learning about conservation, and supporting mental well-being. This initiative aims to address Lincolnshire’s critical lack of accessible green space — a region with some of the UK’s poorest access to nature, despite being known as the “breadbasket of England.” The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted just how vital nature is for mental health. We believe this project can help bridge that gap, creating lasting benefits for people and planet alike.

Rich Heritage Meets Ecological Renewal

Adding further value to the site, a portion of Plot 1 borders the Roman Car Dyke — a scheduled monument and one of Britain’s most extensive surviving Roman earthworks. Dating back to the 1st or 2nd century AD, this ancient engineering marvel enhances the cultural significance of the project and presents unique opportunities for heritage conservation and education. Its integration into the wider ecological vision will deepen community engagement and awareness of our shared environmental and historical legacy.

A Project for the Future, Powered by Community

We are currently in the early stages of the project and are applying for lottery funding to help bring this vision to life. Our aim is to register the reserve as a charitable trust, ensuring the land remains protected in perpetuity and managed collaboratively with the local community.

While national organisations such as the National Trust, Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, and Forestry Commission have already offered their support and expertise, the first major step is securing the land itself — a hurdle we must overcome quickly, as it could be sold at any time.

We are reaching out to our community to form a nature-focused group to help share resources, fundraise, and shape this vision together. This is not just a conservation project — it’s a chance to create a living legacy, a space that connects generations, safeguards biodiversity, and renews our relationship with the land.

If you’re inspired by this vision and want to get involved, support, or learn more — we’d love to hear from you. Together, we can turn this dream into a lasting reality.

Timberland Wild Fen

TIMBERLAND FEN PROJECT

NATURE, COMMUNITY & CONSERVATION

PROTECTING WILDLIFE

Community

Wildlife

Environment

Wellness

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Janette Dearden

Katie Scott

Chris Brooke