On World Environment Day 2025, we're proud to mark a major milestone in our support for the restoration of native woodlands in the communities we're proud to serve.
Representatives from our Sustainability Team were present, along with figures from the environmental charity Heal Somerset, Natural England and the Environment Agency to mark the ground breaking ceremony a major rewilding project we're supporting.
The occasion, which took place near Frome, marked the official launch of the woodland regeneration project that aims to breathe life back into an ecologically depleted landscape. Heal Rewilding’s CEO Jan Stannard and our own Head of Strategic Planning and Sustainability Shirley Robertson together drove in the first fence post of a new 4km perimeter around the site.
ABOVE: The fence posts which will protect the rewilding site are being prepared for installation
The work - which funded by SSEN as part of its £250,000 partnership for the Projects for Nature programme – is supporting the natural regeneration of 24 hectares of woodland on the southern fields of Heal’s first site.
More detail on the Heal Somerset project
The installation of deer fencing, to manage an overpopulation of deer on the land, will mean young trees will be able to grow and thrive in the landscape, boosting biodiversity, storing carbon, and ultimately helping the land to become more resilient to climate change.
Shirley Robertson, SSEN Distribution’s Head of Strategic Planning and Sustainability says:
“We're delighted to have been invited to break the ground on this rewilding initiative. It’s a powerful symbol of renewal and a vital step toward this site's recovery.
“As a founding partner of Projects for Nature, it’s heartening for us to see Heal Somerset’s site begin its journey of growth and knowing the tangible, lasting impact this will have in an area where our customers and colleagues live and work.”
Heal Somerset’s Founder Trustee and Acting CEO, Jan Stannard explains why this part of the project is essential to the future of the site:
“We’re already seeing lots of saplings—especially baby oaks—cropping up across the site, but the deer are nibbling them before they have a chance to grow. This fence will give them the protection they need to thrive.
"The site only began its recovery last year, and thanks to SSEN’s funding, we are accelerating the return of wildlife to this peaceful, restorative place. Their leadership and commitment to environmental regeneration is deeply appreciated.”
More detail on the Projects for Nature scheme
Projects for Nature showcases nature recovery projects that have been reviewed by DEFRA, Natural England, and the Environment Agency. The platform simplifies the process for businesses to contribute to environmental restoration. According to the 2023 State of Nature report, the UK remains one of the most nature-depleted countries globally, with one in seven native species facing extinction.
SSEN's sustainability commitments
In addition to this project, we continue to reduce carbon emissions across our operations and supply chains, reinforcing our commitment to environmental stewardship.