Newtownabbey Borough Council is looking for farmers, landowners and anyone with an interest in bringing their hedgerows back to life!  As part of the “Hedgerow Hopes” project, the council will be running a number of training days in the traditional practice of hedgelaying.

Mark Mc Dowel, Hedge Laying Association of Ireland explains “Hedgelaying is the art of cutting hedgerow stems partly through near ground level so that they will bend without breaking and will continue to grow. The laid stems are arranged to form a stock proof barrier by removing gaps. New growth comes from the cut stump rejuvenating the hedge and thickening up the base.”

Learn how to manage a variety of hedgerows at different life stages and become confident in the skills, tools and techniques of hedgelaying. The training days will also teach how to create a stock proof barrier, as hedges were originally intended for or create a feature in your garden or field to encourage native wildlife.

This project is supported by the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund, ‘Your Heritage Programme’ in partnership with Antrim, Belfast and Carrickfergus Councils.

Please register your interest with Lindsay Matthews by emailing lmatthews@newtownabbey.gov.uk  or calling 028 9034 0069.