A major five-year wildlife restoration project is set to begin in Cumbernauld, backed by nearly £3 million in funding. Nurturing Natural Connections will enhance the town’s green spaces and biodiversity.

Delivered through the Cumbernauld Living Landscape initiative, of which North Lanarkshire Council is a key partner, the project builds on the success of its predecessor, Creating Natural Connections. The National Lottery Heritage Fund has confirmed £2.6 million in support, thanks to National Lottery players.

At the heart of the project is the local community. Volunteers will play a key role in restoring and protecting over 330 hectares of woodland and more than 20 hectares of wildflower meadows. The project will also tackle invasive non-native species and garden escapees that threaten native wildlife.

Importantly, Nurturing Natural Connections will promote the health and wellbeing benefits of nature, including through trauma-informed practices that support mental and physical recovery.

Cllr Helen Loughran, Convenor of the Environment & Climate Change Committee at North Lanarkshire Council, said:

“This is an exciting project for Cumbernauld and North Lanarkshire. We’re delighted that National Lottery Heritage funding will allow us to build on the excellent work of the Cumbernauld Living Landscape partnership. With our partners, we’ll be planting 2,000 new trees, improving access at Westfield and Cumbernauld Community Park, enhancing grasslands, and managing woodlands at Abronhill and Palacerigg Country Park. These efforts will boost biodiversity, improve habitats, and support the sustainable development of our woodlands.”

Tracy Lambert, Project Manager for Cumbernauld Living Landscape at the Scottish Wildlife Trust, added:

“From the bluebell displays of Cumbernauld Glen to the river woodlands of Luggiebank, this town is home to incredible wildlife. Sadly, much of it is in poor condition and needs a helping hand.

For over a decade, we’ve worked with local communities to restore these spaces, and we’re excited to begin this next chapter with Nurturing Natural Connections.”

In addition to conservation work, the project will offer advanced skills training, citizen science opportunities, and support for North Lanarkshire Council’s Local Biodiversity Action Plan. It will also create six full-time jobs and six trainee roles over the project’s lifespan.

The initiative will support green infrastructure in Community Growth Areas and the planned redevelopment of Cumbernauld town centre. It will also deliver nature-based solutions to address flooding, drought, and wildfire risks.

Eilish McGuinness, Chief Executive of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said:

“This is a game-changing project for Cumbernauld. With nearly £3 million in funding, Nurturing Natural Connections will transform the town’s green spaces, connecting people with nature and restoring vital habitats.

Led by the Scottish Wildlife Trust, this powerful partnership is unlocking the health and wellbeing benefits of nature for the whole community. It’s about creating a greener, thriving Cumbernauld - now and for future generations.”

Nurturing Natural Connections is a partnership between the Scottish Wildlife Trust, North Lanarkshire Council, The Conservation Volunteers, and Sanctuary Scotland. The £2.62 million funding follows a successful development phase, which included £181,200 in Heritage Fund support. Delivery begins this month and will run until June 2030.