The matched crowdfunder has now ended but we are still fundraising for our target of £30,000.

You can still donate here and your funds will go towards this project.

Our vision is to transform 300 acres of farmland into a new large-scale area of 'wild-belt' on the western side of Cambridge. Creating a countryside reserve that is rich in nature, which mitigates climate change and improves the well-being of our community.  We need to raise £30,000 to make the first part of this happen next year - A Wilder Coton.

Every pound you give (up to £250) is matched by Aviva Community Fund for nature and wildlife. Be part of helping to create a wilder future in Cambridge for nature and everyone in the city to enjoy.

A Wilder Coton will be achieved through a series of new habitat creation projects which are progressed as funds are raised. The first of these projects will transform 27 acres of currently farmed arable fields into a mix of wetland, woodland and meadow at Coton Countryside Reserve in late 2024. Local people will help as volunteers by planting trees and looking after A Wilder Coton. 

Your donation will help pay for:

- preparing the ground so that we can plant seeds and trees 

- buying wildflower seeds and sowing them to create new meadows & ground cover

- buying trees and shrubs and planting 5 acres of new woodland & scrub

- buying aquatic vegetation and creating a new wetland to capture pollution & reduce flooding

- buying and installing materials like fencing, tree protection and visitor signage

- staff and volunteer time for after care and establishment of the new habitats

- arranging access and obtaining consents and agreements

Cambridge, Past, Present & Future is the only independent, local charity protecting the beauty of Cambridge and its environment. Whether historic buildings, green spaces, nature, housing or infrastructure – we are passionate about all of it. Protecting, enhancing and celebrating all that’s good about this special city, and its surrounding areas. 

We care for 550 acres of green spaces which are open to the public and free to access – Wandlebury Country Park, Coton Reserve and Barnwell Meadows. CPPF also runs an education programme for 2,000 + local school children each year to learn about nature and hosts 100+ cultural and educational events each year, most of which are free to attend, including the Cambridge Nature Festival.