A steep bank is being transformed with wildflowers to increase biodiversity with the help of community volunteers.
The Wild About Kingsbridge group thought the community would benefit from adding wildflowers to a steep grass bank at Squares Quay, in Kingsbridge.
Wild About Kingsbridge, which focuses on supporting the wildlife as well as protecting and enhancing its habitats, approached LiveWest to see if it would be possible. The bank, owned by LiveWest, is situated between some of its homes, and a car park run by South Hams District Council.
Dan Stathers, Wild About Kingsbridge volunteer, said: “The project has really captured the imagination of the Squares Quay residents and the people of Kingsbridge. The bank is right in the heart of town and is extremely steep, it’s almost like a natural amphitheatre. It had been thoroughly taken over by grassy tussocks, so during the past few month’s volunteers have been delicately cutting in terraces, raking out the dense thatch, and opening up the sward so wildflower seeds could be sown and plugs, and bulbs planted.
“Everyone is really excited to see what emerges this Spring, with well over fifty native species introduced. We’ve also planted a small orchard, so there’s lots going on to help our struggling insects. We’re very grateful to LiveWest for sponsoring the planting, along with our district councillors, town council, and local businesses, and a big thank you to all the volunteers and helpers who worked so hard to make it happen, with a special mention to the team from Till the Coast is Clear.”
Our Community Connector, Charlotte Holdsworth, who works closely with residents found out from them if they would like to volunteer on the rewilding project and has been keeping residents up to date with the progress.
Charlotte Holdsworth said: “This project aligns with our Environmental Strategy and focus on sustainability as it will increase biodiversity in the area, improve a green space and offer people the chance to volunteer together on helping shape their local environment. Residents have let me know they are very supportive of this wildflower focus so I’m really excited to see the wildlife and colour come Spring and the difference this will make to the area.”
Wild About Kingsbridge group members planted wildflower plugs on the bank over winter. They were assisted by members of Till the Coast is Clear CIC and LiveWest residents from Squares Quay who wanted to volunteer.The project was given £1,200 thanks to funding from Jewson Partnership Solutions, LiveWest and Kingsbridge Town Council.
Our resident, Alisia Jennings, said: “The land around Squares Quay has for many years been thought of as public land. But now finally residents can enjoy the wildflowers, and capture nature while embracing their new communal garden's. Residents have watched as Dan and other volunteers have worked hard, planting trees and flowers. They are now all looking forward to the seasons ahead, that will bring new life into their everyday interactions with nature.”