Two Suffolk councils to plant more wildflower verges
Babergh and Mid Suffolk will allow wildflowers to thrive on council-owned land "where it is safe to do so"
Last updated 25th Jul 2022
Two Suffolk councils are to allow verges and across their districts to grow wild, as part of efforts to boost biodiversity and tackle climate change.
Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils will reduce grass cutting in several council-owned spaces to allow for wildflowers to grow; expanding on trial scehmes in Sudbury and Stowmarket.
The local authorities say wildflowers will only be planted in areas "where it is safe to do so" and where "the visibility of drivers isn’t affected."
Areas which are being left to grow wild will be marked with signs.
Councillor Jane Gould, a cabinet member at Babergh District Council, said:
“Supporting our local wildlife, such as bees, is key to achieving the aims of our Biodiversity Action Plan.
“We know many residents are keen for us to create more spaces for the benefit of wildlife. So, by introducing more wildflower areas across our district, both on our own land and by working with partners, we can help our pollinators to thrive.
“While reducing grass cutting might seem like a reduction in services for some, we’ve actually needed to invest in new cutting equipment, a dedicated biodiversity officer, as well as purchase millions of seeds.
"We feel this investment, while continuing to look after our open spaces just as carefully as before, is one worth making to ensure Babergh is a green and great place to live and work for years to come.”