National Grid volunteers help restore Lincolnshire nature reserve

Graduates, apprentices and project supervisors from across National Grid projects including Eastern Green Links 3, 4 and 5 and Grimsby to Walpole, spent the day carrying out habitat creation, improving access routes and helping restore natural landscapes as part of the company’s volunteering programme. 

Guided by a team of National Trust rangers, volunteers braved high winds, driving rain and even hailstones to complete a beach clean, clear sand from footpaths and plant young scrub species – including gorse and buckthorn – to support the reserve’s long-term ecological recovery. The team also tackled litter across the site, uncovering a large amount of plastic waste and golf balls, a legacy of Sandilands’ former use as a golf course. 

The National Trust acquired the former golf course in 2020 and has since been transforming the site back to its natural coastal habitat, creating a haven for wildlife and improving public access to the Lincolnshire coastline.

Anthony van den Broek Coleman, National Grid’s New Talent Lead, Strategic Infrastructure, said: “We invited trainees to get involved from across our Strategic Infrastructure business – graduates, apprentices and project supervisors on our construction development programme – and had a fantastic turnout with around 70 people volunteering on the day. 

“The litter picking wasn’t easy, with thorny bushes and strong winds, but everyone threw themselves into it. Days like this are about more than just the practical work. It’s about supporting local communities, protecting the environment and coming together outside our usual roles to make a visible difference in the places where we work. 

“Despite the weather the team spirit was brilliant. It was hard work, but incredibly rewarding, and we ended the day with lots of tired feet and a real sense of achievement.” 

Ron Zaunbrecher, General Manager National Trust - Lincolnshire Coast, said: “It was great to see so many National Grid volunteers helping us restoring nature and improving access at the Lincolnshire Coast. With the nature reserve starting to establish and the build of our new café and car park underway, we are welcoming more and more visitors on site, so the generous help of volunteers is very welcome. A massive thank you to you all from the Sandilands team!” 

National Grid’s volunteering programme forms part of the company’s wider commitment to supporting local communities and enhancing the natural environment where its major infrastructure projects are delivered.