The Mend the Gap programme is enhancing the Chilterns and North Wessex Downs National Landscapes that have been negatively impacted by the electrification of the Great Western Railway mainline around the Goring Gap.
So far we have:
- planted nearly 2,000m of native hedging and trees
- supported more than 20 local enhancement projects
To continue this work we need to make contact with landowners and communities in the programme area. We are particularly seeking to identify and support nature recovery projects for wetland, chalk or arable habitats that will enhance and enrich the outstanding landscape that links the Chilterns and North Wessex Downs for wildlife, residents and visitors.
Find out more
About Mend the Gap
Our aim is to reduce and compensate for the visual harm done to the Chilterns and North Wessex Downs National Landscapes by the electrification of the Great Western main line.
Enhancement Projects
Find out more about the types of projects and schemes that could be supported, including our small grant scheme (up to £15,000).
Mitigation Projects
Tree planting and hedgerow restoration to help screen, mask, distract from and soften the impact of the steel gantries and other electrical equipment.
Hedge and Tree Planting contracts
Are you, or do you know a contractor who would like to tender for our tree and hedge planting taking place this winter, across the Chilterns?
To find out what is available please visit this page
Access Consultation with Kieran Foster
One of the key visions of the Mend the Gap programme is that the outstanding landscape that links the Chilterns and the North Wessex Downs will be enhanced and enriched for wildlife, residents and visitors.
To this end we are currently carrying out some consultation and survey work, in conjunction with a countryside access consultant Kieran Foster, to explore opportunities to enhance and improve public access in the Pangbourne, Goring and Cholsey area. We will be looking at making locations more accessible for elderly and disabled residents and visitors. This web-link will take take you to more details of the consultation, including a link to a questionnaire, on local access opportunities and potential improvements. Please complete the consultation and please forward it to any individuals who you think may have a particular interest in the contents.
Watch our video
Where does the programme operate?
The programme area covers the railway corridor along a 20km stretch of line between the outskirts of Reading and Didcot and 3km either side of the line.
Our partners: Chilterns
Our partners: North Wessex Downs
