A FORMER field on the edge of Blandford is being transformed into a new wildlife haven as thousands of trees and hedgerows take root around a major waste facility under construction.

The site, just off the A350, will become North Dorset’s new household recycling and waste management centre, replacing Blandford’s current recycling site when it opens in spring 2027.

But long before the gates open, nature is already moving in.

Around half of all planned planting is now complete, with native trees, hedgerows and grassland beginning to establish across the once single-crop agricultural field.

(Picture: Dorset Council)

A second phase of planting is planned before the centre opens.

The project aims to balance essential infrastructure with environmental gains.

New woodland is being planted to screen the site and create habitats for wildlife, while Dorset Council has pledged to manage the area for at least 25 years.

Visitors may one day spot everything from bats and butterflies to hedgehogs and dormice, thanks to ponds, wetlands, wildflower meadows and specially designed wildlife corridors.

(Picture: Dorset Council)

The site is expected to deliver a 33% Biodiversity Net Gain with features including bat and bird boxes, reptile shelters and habitats for species such as the White-letter hairstreak butterfly and Barberry carpet moth.

Cabinet member for regeneration, infrastructure and growth Cllr Jon Andrews said: “This project shows how Dorset can deliver the facilities people rely on while also making a real contribution to nature recovery.

“The scale of planting already completed is impressive and will create a greener, more resilient landscape that benefits wildlife, visitors and the wider area for years to come.”

The development is being delivered through a partnership between Dorset Council and Heidelberg Materials UK.