Overlooking the chalk valleys of South Wiltshire, the Stonehill Habitat Bank at Red House Farm lies in the heart of the Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs National Landscape. Owned and managed by Dineley Farming Company Ltd, this 56-hectare project transforms improved pasture into a rich and varied mosaic of species-rich grasslands, scrub, woodland and scattered trees—all maintained by carefully managed, low-intensity grazing.

This habitat bank delivers high-quality offsite Biodiversity Units (BUs) under the Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) regime, with a legally secured 30-year Habitat Management and Monitoring Plan.

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Restoring a Mosaic of Habitats

The site’s enhancement strategy is tailored to its complex soils and geology, using calcareous, neutral, and acidic grassland establishment methods depending on location. Restoration actions include:

• Creation of lowland calcareous, neutral, and acid grassland using locally sourced green hay and low-fertility management
• Planting of 2,670 native trees to introduce structure and habitat heterogeneity
• Development of mixed scrub and a broadleaved woodland copse to promote successional dynamics
• Adaptive grazing using cattle and sheep to simulate lost herbivore pressures and manage vegetation naturally

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This nature-led approach is designed to evolve over time into a scrubby grassland ecosystem, promoting both biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.

Strategic Ecological Location

The site lies adjacent to Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS)-designated chalk grassland on the adjacent scarp, enhancing connectivity for butterflies, birds and specialist downland flora. It is within two National Character Areas—Blackmoor Vale & Vale of Wardour (NCA 133) and Dorset Downs & Cranborne Chase (NCA 134)—and within the Cranborne Chase National Landscape, further reinforcing its strategic ecological value.

Proximity to Prescombe Down SAC/NNR and Gallows Hill SSSI adds to the landscape-scale significance of the project. All interventions are compatible with nearby conservation designations and support long-term ecological recovery objectives for the wider region.

Public Benefit and Oversight

With public footpaths crossing the site, Stonehill Habitat Bank also offers accessible nature recovery, with signage to promote public awareness and engagement. Delivery of units is to be secured via a Section 106 agreement with Wiltshire Council, ensuring regulatory compliance and long-term protection of the ecological uplift. We are partnering on the project with Restore Nature