JUST six months after a community-led charity secured land for Broken Bridges Nature Reserve, the quiet stretch of countryside between Bemerton and Harnham is already showing signs of renewal.

The project, which saved 34 acres of former farmland at Fitzgerald Farm, was launched to restore and protect an area once rich in wildlife but left in decline after years without proper management.

Rank vegetation, failing trees and a badly eroded footpath had all taken their toll on a site that includes part of the River Avon Site of Special Scientific Interest and Special Area of Conservation.

Since taking ownership, trustees have focused on stabilising the land and laying foundations for long-term recovery.

Broken Bridges Nature Reserve map.

Early work included surveying and making safe trees overhanging the Broken Bridges public footpath – a vital walking link between Harnham and Bemerton – with support from Wiltshire Council and Salisbury City Council teams.

Attention then turned to the meadows where long-neglected grasses and sedges had crowded out wildflowers and rarer species found in wet floodplain meadows, wood pasture and carr woodland.

With help from neighbouring farmer Nick Saint, city council machinery and volunteers, all meadows were mown and sensitive areas carefully cleared.

Plans are now taking shape to reintroduce grazing cattle – a key step in restoring biodiversity by naturally controlling invasive grasses and helping native plants thrive.

Discussions with local graziers are under way, guided by conservation specialists.

Fencing is also being repositioned away from the path to give walkers more space while allowing animals to be safely contained.

Work on the East Meadow is already complete, funded through generous donations and Wiltshire Council area board grants.

Despite the site’s recent challenges, wildlife is already making its presence felt.

Recent sightings shared by supporters include roe deer, a buzzard and a fox moving through the meadows – a reminder of what careful management could bring back.

Photo: Mike Banks

Future plans include improving year-round access along the footpath, controlling invasive species along the river and expanding volunteering, wellbeing and community activities.

As Broken Bridges enters its next phase, trustees say the aim remains simple: to restore a precious landscape and make it welcoming for both wildlife and people at the heart of Salisbury.