Hickling Broad Land Purchase Appeal - £1 million raised!

An amazing £1 million has been raised to help us secure 655 acres of vital habitat at NWT Hickling Broad, the largest of the 40 Norfolk and Suffolk Broads, internationally recognised for its conservation value as a wetland.

A flagship nature reserve, it is home to common crane, breeding bittern, bearded tit and Cetti’s warbler. Large numbers of marsh harrier, merlin and hen harrier roost together in winter. Water vole, otter and the rare Norfolk Hawker dragonfly are often seen. Plants such as milk parsley thrive, providing food for the caterpillar of Norfolk’s iconic swallowtail.

Hickling Broad first became a wildlife reserve in 1945. With the help of our members, the public, charitable trusts and businesses - we have raised an unprecedented £1 million in 6 months.

Norfolk Wildlife Trust's Chief Executive, Brendan Joyce said, “I am delighted to announce that £1 million has been raised in such a short time. This is an exceptional response by our supporters and we are very moved by how much people appreciate the value of Hickling Broad, which clearly holds a special place in the hearts and minds of many people in Norfolk and beyond.”

A further £1 million loan has been offered by the Garfield Weston Foundation as the Trust also had to contribute £1.5 million to secure the land. 

Brendan continued "The significance of the loan from Garfield Weston cannot be underestimated as it will allow us to proceed with the acquisition with confidence. We expect to complete by the end of April. Whilst the £1 million has been raised, the Trust's fundraising activity will continue. The Garfield Weston Foundation loan has to be paid back over the next five years and we've had to also use half a million from our reserves."

We are therefore grateful for any donations that continue to be made. Thanks to everyone who has helped us reach our target and so quickly. You’ve been amazing!