Chapter Meadows was purchased on behalf of the people and the city of Worcester by the Duckworth Worcestershire Trust in October 1998. The Trust works to protect this superb natural site, in the heart of the city, from development.
It is managed in a manor to safeguard its landscape, wildlife and historical importance. Seasonal flooding of the meadow, by the River Severn, has resulted in an area of land unchanged since records began.
Throughout history the meadow has been cut for hay, providing Romans, Norman Monks and subsequently Worcester Cathedral with food. Once cut, the land would be grazed by cattle for the rest of the summer and autumn. This traditional management, which continues today during the spring and summer months has allowed bird, flower, insect and mammal inhabitants to thrive. The meadows form part of the wildlife corridor that passes through the centre of Worcester city.
Chapter Meadows has an array of biodiversity. Species to look out for include the Club-tailed Dragonfly, Kestrel, Little Owl, Tawny Owl, Kingfisher and a variety of Bats. The site is managed by Worcester City Council, who is undertaking an ambitious programme of restoration projects with the help of Countryside Stewardship funding.
Work includes ditch clearance, replanting of native hedgerows along original boundaries and installation of stock proof fencing, bridges and kissing gates.
