RESIDENTS visitors and other stakeholders are being invited to help shape the future of the Malvern Hills and Commons, as the Malvern Hills Trust opens a further public consultation on its next Land Management Plan.
The charity, which manages over 3,000 acres of diverse landscape, is hosting a series of meet-and-greet events.
People attending the events will be able to learn more about the challenges facing the Hills and share their views on how the Hills could be managed in the future, before decisions are finalised.
The Hills play a central role in everyday life for many people, from walking and recreation to providing space for wildlife and iconic landscape views.
Caring for the Hills requires active management, however increasing visitor numbers, climate change, financial pressures and tree diseases are placing a growing strain on how the land is cared for.
The arrival of several tree diseases, including Ash Dieback, has tripled the resources needed for management and has impacted the approach to tree management in the future.
“We all value the Hills in different ways,” said Jonathan Bills, Conservation Manager at Malvern Hills Trust.
“Managing the Hills and Commons well is essential to protecting a landscape that people care deeply about – whether that’s for access, wildlife, scenery or recreation.
“The meet-and-greet events are designed to be informal and accessible, giving people the opportunity to ask questions, understand the current land management and environmental issues, and contribute their views and suggestions.”
The updated Land Management Plan will guide how the Hills and Commons are managed over the next five-year period, between 2027-2031.
It aims to deliver on Malvern Hills Trust’s statutory obligations and balance public access, environmental needs and long-term resilience.
The public meet-and-greet events will be held:
• 13th May – Lyttelton Well (Main Hall), 3–7pm
• 20th May – Welland Parish Hall, 10am–3pm
• 10th June – Colwall Park Hotel, 3–7pm
• 17th June – Malvern Link United Reformed Church, 1–5pm
Visit www.malvernhills.org.uk/LMP for more information.
