Northumberland Wildlife Trust Aims to Secure Largest Land Sale in England for Nature Recovery Project
The Rothbury estate, encompassing over 3,800 hectares, is at the heart of a major conservation effort led by the Northumberland Wildlife Trust, which seeks to purchase the land for £30 million. This would mark the largest single-owner land sale in England in around 30 years. The trust has set a fundraising deadline for September 2026 and has currently achieved about a third of its target.
Already owning the western part of the estate, including the Simonside Hills, the trust intends to complete the acquisition to establish a 40-mile nature corridor stretching from Druridge Bay to the Scottish-English border near Kielderhead and Whitelee nature reserves. The initiative prioritizes nature recovery and enhancing landscape-scale ecological connectivity over immediate rewilding, although the future introduction of species such as bison, pine martens, and beavers is being considered.
The project has garnered support from notable figures such as Sir David Attenborough, who endorsed the bid via a video message emphasizing collaboration with local farmers and communities. Engagement with local residents is ongoing, with the Rothbury Women’s Institute actively fundraising and a community development officer dedicated to addressing concerns and dispelling rumors, including those related to potential lynx introductions.
Plans associated with the nature corridor also focus on boosting tourism and local opportunities through events like dark skies viewing, wildlife observation, and cookery schools. These aims reflect the trust’s commitment to fostering a harmonious relationship where both people and nature can thrive together.
