With the help of a generous legacy gift, Cheshire Wildlife Trust has purchased two new nature reserves: Picton Pastures near Chester and Aldred’s Lea in the Peak District. Combined with last year’s acquisition of Greenbooth Nature Reserve near Macclesfield, these latest additions mark a major milestone in the Trust’s mission to recover nature, as it surpasses its ambitious goal to secure 100 acres of new land for wildlife. 

The 3x3 Anniversary Appeal, launched in 2022 as part of the Trust’s 60th year, set out an ambitious goal: to secure 100 acres for wildlife. Funds raised through the appeal were used last year to buy 30 acres of land at Greenbooth. This year, that goal of 100 acres has been realised – thanks to the remarkable generosity of our appeal supporters and the legacy gift from David Aldred. Together, their contributions have created a lasting impact for nature by enabling the restoration of these newly acquired sites, transforming previously low-value areas into thriving habitats.  

Aldred’s Lea is a 29-acre upland pasture in the Peak District, just 800 metres from Greenbooth Nature Reserve. It was secured thanks to a generous gift left to the Trust in the Will of David Aldred, whose support is now helping to protect and restore this beautiful landscape for future generations. The site features species-rich grassland and offers strong potential for habitat restoration that benefits upland birds and pollinators. Its location also strengthens the biodiversity of Cheshire’s Peak District, acting as a vital stepping stone between existing areas already managed by the Trust. 

Picton Pastures, near the Trust’s existing Gowy Meadows reserve, lies at the heart of the River Gowy floodplain south of Chester. The 51-acre site is crisscrossed by ditches and bordered by the River Gowy, making it an ideal location for wetland restoration. Lapwing, little egret, teal, wigeon and shoveler have all been spotted here. 

Greenbooth Nature Reserve is nestled between Whaley Bridge, Buxton, and Rainow, within the Peak District National Park. The reserve sits within a mosaic of acid grassland, heathland, and clough woodland. Brown hare, curlew, tormentil, and harebell have been spotted at the site. 

“Securing land is one of the most powerful tools we have to protect biodiversity,” said Charlotte Harris, Chief Executive of Cheshire Wildlife Trust. “By focusing on sites that currently offer little to wildlife, we can transform them into vibrant ecosystems and make the biggest positive impact for nature.  

Each new reserve is more than just protected land, it is a vital stepping stone towards building a connected network of habitats where wildlife can recover, flourish, and thrive. Through these acquisitions, Cheshire Wildlife Trust is strengthening the region’s natural heritage and creating safe spaces for wildlife to thrive.”