Backed by broad public support and public grants, the conservation charities finalized the purchase of the former Percy family estate using donations and a bridging loan. Plans for the site include reintroducing native species such as beavers and pine martens alongside existing habitats for curlews and red squirrels. The project continues to face opposition from local agricultural figures and politicians who argue public funds are being diverted away from struggling tenant farmers.
Key points
The purchase successfully prevents the sprawling Northumberland estate from being split u…: The purchase successfully prevents the sprawling Northumberland estate from being split up among multiple private owners.
Conservation plans aim to blend species reintroductions and habitat restoration with ongo…: Conservation plans aim to blend species reintroductions and habitat restoration with ongoing sustainable agricultural practices.
Opposition persists among local farmers and local officials who question Defra spending p…: Opposition persists among local farmers and local officials who question Defra spending priorities amid broader agricultural funding pressures.
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- Published
Conservationists have completed the purchase of a huge upland estate following a two-year £30m public appeal backed by the likes of Sir David Attenborough.
The Wildlife Trusts - a federation of 47 conservation charities - and Northumberland Wildlife Trust (NWT) plan to "enhance the rich natural heritage" of the Rothbury Estate, a 9,500-acre stretch of former grouse moor, woodland and farmland - having headed off fears it could be split among multiple owners.
Broadcaster Sir David described it as an opportunity "to create something very special for generations to come".
Not everyone supported the campaign, though, with some local farmers having warned the purchase would be "a folly".
Owned by Lord Max Percy, the Duke of Northumberland's youngest son, the estate had been in the family for about 700 years and was understood to be the largest area of land put up for sale in England in decades.
Worried public access could become more difficult if it was divided between owners, the wildlife organisations bought an initial tract in 2024 covering the Simonside Hills and a mixture of…
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