Wildflower Meadows to Be Planted In Winchester
Three areas in Winchester are set to become a haven for biodiversity thanks to wildflowers being planted.
More than 25 native wildflower species will be planted by the council's contractors, idverde, at open space in Thurmond Crescent in Stanmore, Ivy Close in Badger Farm, and opposite Stanmore Recreation Area.
The news comes as the council prepares to set out its Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) in January 2021 which will highlight how leaders intend to enhance and protect essential biodiversity across the district.
Planting wildflowers creates important biodiversity benefits - especially for insects as they provide leaves, nectar and pollen and also shelter and places to breed - this in turn helps insects pollinate the wildflowers that enable them to grow seeds that can spread to grow in other places.
The project came about after the council invited residents who were keen to see more wildflowers in the district share their suggestions for natural improvements to the area.
Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Cllr Lynda Murphy, said:
"We as a council are committed to stopping the decline of species in our district and to ensuring we're an area where wildlife thrives. Protecting biodiversity is one of the key reasons we made it our goal for the council to be carbon neutral by 2024 and the wider district by 2030.
"Planting wildflowers is vital for providing a habitat for pollinators and promotes increased biodiversity in the area. We will continue to look for opportunities to plant more wildflowers in the district, as the benefits they bring are enormous."
The council has previously planted wildflowers in recent years including at St Giles Hill and Water Lane.