Volunteers to increase biodiversity on Weybridge Heath

The Elmbridge Countryside Team is dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the borough's rich natural environment. Our team of six rangers focuses on increasing biodiversity, improving public access, and ensuring that our woodlands remain healthy and resilient for the future.

To effectively manage our diverse countryside sites, we rely on a network of dedicated conservation volunteers who meet regularly - on a weekly or monthly basis - to contribute to our regular management works. We have established local conservation groups in Esher, Claygate, and Oxshott who collaborate closely with the countryside team.

Currently, we are seeking new conservation volunteers to join existing groups, but we would also like to establish a new group dedicated to caring for Weybridge Heath. This group would concentrate their efforts on restoring and regenerating the site's open heathland conditions, which are vital for local biodiversity.

Upcoming work parties on Weybridge Heath

We invite you to participate in our scheduled work parties this autumn and winter:

• 2 October 2024
• 13 November 2024
• 11 December 2024
• 12 February 2025

Time: 9:30am to 12:30pm (you can leave earlier if you wish) 

Meeting at: 9:30am at Cobbets Hill, Weybridge  - What3words Location: ///camp.enter.crops

Why get involved?

Volunteering with the Elmbridge Countryside Team offers numerous benefits, including:

• opportunities to learn more about your local environment
• a chance to stay physically and mentally active
• the ability to develop existing skills or explore new hobbies
• valuable work experience in environmental conservation

Cllr Simon Waugh, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture, and Commercial Strategy, said, “We are hugely appreciative of the substantial contribution made by volunteers to preserve and protect our environment. They do a fantastic job to help us work for a borough rich in wildlife, valued and enjoyed by many. Your involvement could make a difference in preserving the beauty and biodiversity of Elmbridge. We look forward to welcoming you to our team!”.

If you are interested in helping on Weybridge Heath or any other sites, please feel join us on the scheduled days advertised on our volunteering web page or email sdixon-jones@elmbridge.gov.uk for more information and a registration form.