Community launches Crowdfunder to protect access to ancient woodland
Friends of Crich Chase have launched a Just Giving campaign to raise money so Derbyshire Wildlife Trust can purchase an important local woodland.
The 182 acre site was recently put up for sale and the community wants to raise £720,000 to buy it and help Derbyshire Wildlife Trust in its management and care. The concern is that a private buyer could change or restrict the informal access currently enjoyed by local people.
The ancient woodland has a history dating back to Medieval times and is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. It is one of the largest and most diverse ancient semi-natural woodlands remaining in the Derwent Valley. Within the woodland are scrubby areas and grassy clearings, making a rich mosaic of habitats for fungi, reptiles, mammals, butterflies and insects, with buzzards often seen soaring overhead.
An anonymous and generous local landowner has already pledged £50,000 to the community appeal to use as match funding so for every £ donated, they will match up to a to £50,000.
Sarah Woodman of Friends of Crich Chase says
“This ancient woodland refuge for both wildlife and people holds a special place in our hearts and we rely on it more than ever. The woods with their scented bluebells and birdsong in spring, dappled summer shade and rich autumn colours are a balm to the senses and the soul. They have played a crucial role in our mental and physical health especially in the last two years - it’s unthinkable that our children could grow up not enjoying their own adventures here.”
Danielle at Derbyshire Wildlife Trust says
“Crich woodland is incredibly special to the local community, places like this are vital for people and wildlife and we would be honoured to include it in our suite of reserves, and be involved in its care for generations to come. A number of donors have already stepped forward to pledge their support and we encourage anyone who can to help the community before it’s too late.”
The just giving page is open here Friends of Crich Chase is fundraising for Derbyshire Wildlife Trust (justgiving.com)
More News From Amber Valley Info
| Mobile speed camera locations in Derbyshire during September 2026 Derbyshire Casualty Reduction Enforcement Support Team (C.R.E.S.T) will be carrying out mobile safety camera enforc read more | |
| Residents Urged To Temporarily Limit Fridge And Freezer Disposals By Derbyshire County Countil Steps are being taken by Derbyshire County Council to temporarily limit the number of read more | |
| South Normanton Shop closed in partnership operation On Wednesday, PCSO Hunt from the Amber Valley SNT assisted Derbyshire County Councils Trading Standards department with inspecti read more | |
| Have you spotted an orangutan cycling around Amber Valley? Alfreton man Peter McEvoy is preparing to cycle 425 miles from Sheffield to Paris dressed as an orangutan, raising money f read more | |
| Partnership agreement marks another milestone for the Market Place redevelopment The transformation of Derby's Market Place has taken another step forward, with the signing of a Mas read more | |
The Amber Valley Info Noticeboard
| Food waste recycling is coming to Amber Valley From June 2026, Amber Valley Borough Council will introduce weekly food waste recycling across the borough as part of a phased roll-ou read more | |
| Stallholder Bookings Now Open For The Tansley Big Day Out We're excited to announce that Tansley's Big Day Out 2026 will take place on 6th & 7th June 2026! read more | |
| Christmas and New Year bin collection dates Over the festive season, bin collections will operate on revised schedules. Some collections may take place up to two days earlier than u read more | |
| Launch Of WOMBLE MANIA! At the Heights of Abraham, Opened by Marcus Robertson, Son of Wombles author, Elisabeth Beresford, officially launched WOMBLE MANIA! at the Heights of Abraha read more | |
| Belper School and Sixth Form Centre Closed Today Due to a significant water leak, resulting in the water being turned off at school, we unfortunately have to close the school today. read more | |
