Honley Village Community Trust CIO (HVCT), who owns and manages Magdale, is considering introducing conservation grazing as part of the long-term management. Before making any decision, we would like to hear the views of everyone who enjoys using Magdale. 

Conservation grazing is a traditional way of managing grassland, using livestock to help maintain healthy meadows, encourage wildflowers and improve habitats for wildlife. 

For several years, the grass across Magdale has been cut each year and removed as hay. Removing the cut grass gradually reduces the nutrients in the soil, creating the right conditions for native wildflowers to thrive. In turn, this supports a greater variety of insects, birds and other wildlife, helping to increase biodiversity across the site. 

Unfortunately, managing the land in this way has become increasingly difficult. Much of Magdale is uneven, wet or sloping, making it challenging to use machinery safely and effectively. As an alternative, we are exploring the use of conservation grazing, most likely with sheep (Ryelands). Grazing is a tried and tested method of managing meadows and was used at Magdale many years ago. It would achieve the same aim of removing grass naturally while providing a practical, sustainable and environmentally friendly way of caring for the land. 

The grazing would be seasonal, with livestock only brought onto Magdale when it is beneficial for the management of the grassland. The timing and duration of grazing would be carefully planned to achieve the best outcomes for wildlife while allowing people to continue enjoying Magdale throughout the year. 

Magdale is already divided into four fields by traditional dry stone walls, many of which are currently hidden beneath brambles. As part of this proposal, the walls would be uncovered, repaired where necessary and restored to their former condition. Gates would be installed to safely contain the livestock while maintaining access for visitors. 

To help balance nature conservation with public enjoyment of Magdale: 

No more than two fields would be grazed at any one time. 

There would always be areas of Magdale available where dogs could be exercised off the lead. Public access would remain unrestricted at all times. 

When walking through a field containing livestock, we'd ask for dogs to be kept on leads for the safety of both the animals and other visitors. 

The welfare of both the livestock and visitors would be carefully managed, with appropriate fencing, gates and regular inspections. 

This is a proposal only, and no decision has been made. We know Magdale is a much-loved place for walkers, dog owners, families and nature lovers, and we genuinely want your views before deciding whether conservation grazing is the right approach. 

We welcome all feedback—whether you support the proposal, have concerns, or have ideas that could help improve it. Your comments will help inform any decision made by Honley Village Community Trust. 

Please send your comments to consultation@honleyvillagetrust.org by Sunday 13th September 2026. 

Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and for helping us care for Magdale so it can continue to be enjoyed by both people and wildlife for generations to come.