Chalk grassland restoration to create habitats

The project will cover land around Dover Castle and the Western Heights

A large area of chalk grassland in east Kent is to be restored to create habitats for key species.

The project will cover 20 acres (8 hectares) of land around Dover Castle and the Western Heights aiming to provide suitable homes for choughs, Adonis blue butterflies, early spider orchids and other flora and fauna.

A mixed-breed livestock herd will be introduced for long-term management through conservation grazing.

Dave Hedges, from English Heritage, said the "world renowned white cliffs offer such rich heritage and landscape combined".

"The work will allow species to travel across already established nationally important Sites of Special Scientific Interest to the east and west of Dover, making them more resilient to the effects of climate change by enlarging their habitats," an English Heritage spokesperson said.

Ian Rickards, area manager from Kent Wildlife Trust, said: "This initiative aims to breathe life back into these precious ecosystems, promoting biodiversity and preserving both our natural and historic heritage for future generations.

"Chalk grasslands are not just beautiful, they support a wealth of unique flora and fauna."

It is hoped the chalk grassland project will provide a home for choughs

The project is being organised by English Heritage, Kent Wildlife Trust, White Cliffs Countryside Partnership, and the Western Heights Preservation Society, with funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

It will run until December 2026.