A team of 16 volunteers from SSEN and our contract partner, OCU Group have taken time away from their usual roles for a day of environmental action at Chimney Meadows Nature Reserve in Oxfordshire.
Working alongside the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) the group tackled the spread of Himalayan balsam - an invasive, non-native plant species. Chimney Meadows is BBOWT’s largest nature reserve; a flagship site for lowland meadow restoration and home to a diverse range of plant and animal life.
Our team supported BBOWT’s vital conservation efforts by removing the Himalayan balsam by hand across uneven terrain, helping protect one of Oxfordshire’s most precious ecosystems. The invasive plant outcompetes native species and poses a serious threat to biodiversity across riverbanks and wet meadows.
Volunteer days like this form a key part of the Trust’s wider efforts to enhance biodiversity and build a better future for nature, while offering volunteers the chance to connect with nature, learn about local wildlife, and make a tangible impact through teamwork and shared purpose.
Florence Hickling, one of our Senior Project Managers said:
“Taking part in this conservation day at Chimney Meadows was a fantastic experience for our team. It’s inspiring to see the direct impact we can have on protecting local biodiversity, and it reinforces our commitment to supporting the communities and environments where we operate.
“Working alongside BBOWT and OCU Group was a great example of collaboration in action, and we’re proud to contribute to such meaningful work.”
Business Engagement Lead BBOWT, Victoria Bentiba added:
“We are delighted to be partnering with SSEN and OCU Group, who joined as BBOWT ‘Investors in Wildlife’ business members this year. Their volunteers showed serious dedication on a hot, sunny day.
“Without continued control, this non-native invasive species would reduce the diversity of the native flora and fauna at the reserve, which is remarkable for its diversity of plant-life, including rich wildflower meadows, and as a breeding ground for nationally declining wading birds like curlew.
“With discussions underway for car park restoration work at another BBOWT site, and further Wild Work Team Days in autumn, we look forward to continuing our partnership with the teams at OCU Group and SSEN.”
Paul Pleace, Senior Project Manager from OCU Group shared his thoughts on the day:
“It was a real privilege to contribute to the important work being done at Chimney Meadows. Days like this not only make a difference to the local environment, but also strengthen the connection between our teams and the communities and landscapes we work in.
“I’m proud of what we achieved together and look forward to more opportunities to support BBOWT’s brilliant conservation efforts.”
This visit supports our £200 million body of works which aim to upgrade the network in the Oxfordshire area. Communities and stakeholders can find further information on the programme at www.ssen.co.uk/oxfordshire.
Our colleagues are encouraged to take part in the company’s volunteering programme, which grants them time away from their day jobs to help the communities they live and work in.