The Rewild Life Project CIC was established to restore biodiversity, promote sustainable land use, and engage the local community in environmental conservation. During the financial year covered by this report, the project continued to develop its four-acre site on the outskirts of Shepton Mallet, transforming former agricultural land into a thriving space for wildlife, sustainable food growing, and community participation. Building on the work undertaken in previous years, our focus has been on maintaining and strengthening the habitats already established. We continued to care for the 120 native trees and shrubs that form the foundation of our developing food forest and maintained over 200 metres of native hedgerow. These habitats provide valuable food sources, nesting sites, and wildlife corridors while also helping to capture carbon, improve soil health, and reduce erosion. Significant effort has also been dedicated to improving the site for both people and nature. Historic agricultural detritus, including sections of barbed wire fencing and other discarded materials, has been removed, helping to create a safer and more accessible environment. We have expanded our growing spaces, developed a protected outdoor growing area, The project continues to demonstrate positive environmental outcomes. By allowing areas of grassland to develop naturally, we have created habitats that support small mammals such as voles and mice, which in turn have encouraged the return of local wildlife, including barn owls. These early signs of ecological recovery highlight the value of rewilding former agricultural land. Throughout the year we hosted volunteer maintenance days, enabling local people to contribute directly to habitat management, food growing, and site improvements. These activities have helped strengthen community connections, increase environmental awareness, and provide opportunities for people to spend time outdoors and reconnect with nature. Although still in its development phase, The Rewild Life Project CIC continues to deliver environmental and social benefits through habitat restoration, biodiversity enhancement and sustainable growing practices.

During this reporting period, we consulted with stakeholders through a variety of methods, including: Volunteer maintenance days and community participation events, which provided opportunities for direct feedback and discussion. Informal conversations with volunteers, visitors, and local residents involved in site activities. Ongoing engagement with environmental organisations and local networks, including Somerset Wildlife Trust, Reimagining the Levels, the Somerset Rivers Authority, and CAG Somerset (Community Action Groups). Discussions with community members regarding future plans for the site, including habitat creation, growing spaces, and volunteer facilities. Actions Taken in Response to Feedback Feedback from volunteers highlighted the need for improved facilities to support community participation. As a result, plans have been developed for a composting toilet and small barn to provide shelter, storage, and basic amenities for volunteers and visitors. Community interest in sustainable food production encouraged us to expand the protected growing area and continue developing the polytunnel and outdoor growing spaces. Feedback from environmental partners has informed our ongoing habitat management, including the maintenance of hedgerows, support for pollinators, and protection of grassland areas that provide habitat for small mammals and birds. Discussions with stakeholders reinforced the importance of biodiversity enhancement and climate resilience, helping shape plans for future projects including the creation of a wildlife pond, additional hedgerow planting, bee and butterfly habitats, and the continued development of the site's food forest. Stakeholder consultation continues to play an important role in shaping the development of The Rewild Life Project CIC, ensuring that the project delivers meaningful environmental and community benefits while remaining responsive to local needs and opportunities.

No remuneration was received

No transfer of assets other than for full consideration