TEP Environment Grant Helps Create Inclusive Wildlife Learning Space

TEP Environment Grant Helps Create Inclusive Wildlife Learning Space

TEP Environment Grant Helps Create Inclusive Wildlife Learning Space
October 13, 2026

Last year, Growing People CIC at Lanjeth Nursery received a TEP Environment Grant to help improve access to the organisation's restored pond habitats in Cornwall.


Since then, the project has successfully transformed the area into a more accessible outdoor learning space, creating new opportunities for children and people with reduced mobility to connect with nature.


Working with a local carpenter, Growing People CIC commissioned the construction of a bespoke wooden boardwalk around two of the site's ponds. The finished project went beyond the original brief, with the addition of three wheelchair-accessible viewing gantries and specially designed hatches that allow visitors to safely observe pond life up close. These features enable children and adults of all abilities to explore freshwater habitats, learn about local wildlife and gain a better understanding of the role ponds play in supporting biodiversity.

The improvements form part of a wider restoration project at Lanjeth Nursery, where Growing People CIC is bringing 13.5 acres of woodland, ponds and water gardens back into active use for community benefit. The site is home to an exceptional range of wildlife, including 14 recorded species of dragonfly, creating unique opportunities for environmental education and nature-based wellbeing activities.


The new infrastructure is already supporting the organisation's growing programme of outdoor learning sessions. As the team launched its summer forest school programme, including sessions for children eligible for free school meals, the accessible pond area has helped more young people engage directly with the natural environment.


Reflecting on the project, Managing Director Mark Woolcock said:

We now have accessible ponds which are safe for children to access and learn more about the environment and the part they play in it. As we start our first summer forest school, we hope to see increased access to the ponds and a greater connection from all.


This project is a fantastic example of how relatively small improvements can remove barriers to nature, helping more people experience, learn from and care for local wildlife.


We are delighted to see the lasting impact of this project and would like to thank Growing People CIC for sharing their achievements with us.


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TEP's Environment Grant was established to support projects that inspire environmental learning, raise awareness of environmental issues and encourage positive action. Since launching in 2020, the grant has supported 17 projects across the UK, helping individuals, community groups and organisations bring environmental ideas to life. Now in its seventh year, the grant received a record 102 applications from across the UK. Following a detailed review process, funding has been awarded to two projects that stood out for their innovative approaches to community engagement, environmental awareness and learning.
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The publication of the new NPPF 2026 represents an important shift in national heritage planning policy. While the fundamental objective of conserving the historic environment remains unchanged, the new framework restructures how that policy is presented and introduces some important changes in how heritage assets are assessed and weighed in decision-making.
October 6, 2026
TEP's Environment Grant was established to support projects that inspire environmental learning, raise awareness of environmental issues and encourage positive action. Since launching in 2020, the grant has supported 17 projects across the UK, helping individuals, community groups and organisations bring environmental ideas to life. Now in its seventh year, the grant received a record 102 applications from across the UK. Following a detailed review process, funding has been awarded to two projects that stood out for their innovative approaches to community engagement, environmental awareness and learning.
September 22, 2026
The publication of the new NPPF 2026 represents an important shift in national heritage planning policy. While the fundamental objective of conserving the historic environment remains unchanged, the new framework restructures how that policy is presented and introduces some important changes in how heritage assets are assessed and weighed in decision-making.
August 19, 2026
As Biodiversity Net Gain becomes an increasingly important part of the planning system, local authorities are exploring how their land assets can play a greater role in supporting nature recovery while creating long-term environmental value. To help inform its approach, Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council commissioned TEP to assess the Biodiversity Net Gain potential across approximately 500 Council-owned landholdings. Using bespoke desk-based software the project sought to establish a robust baseline of biodiversity value, identify opportunities for habitat enhancement and provide strategic recommendations on how the Council could utilise its land assets to support the delivery of Biodiversity Net Gain .