Thursday, July 27 2023
For immediate release
Biodiversity project sees wildlife meadow created in Cropston
A meadow area been created on Jubilee Park in Cropston to encourage more wildlife to the site.
The area on land which is loaned by Charnwood Borough Council has been designed by Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council and sees relaxed mowing of the open space which is encouraging more species to habitat.
Over 100 tree saplings have been planted and mowing has been altered to allow some areas to become more natural and attract more species.
Funding for the project has come from a SHIRE Environmental Grant from Leicestershire County Council.
Cllr Anne Gray, the Council’s lead member for open spaces, said: “It is fantastic to see this area be created at Jubilee Park and I very much enjoyed hearing about its creation and the plans.
“We always want to see different species and wildlife at parks across Charnwood for walkers and visitors to enjoy.
“This is just the beginning of the project and I look forward to seeing it grow and expand over the coming year.”
Cllr Sue Graham, chair of the open spaces committee at Thurcaston and Cropston Parish Council, said: “We are so pleased to see this project begin and the impact that it is starting to have already.
“It is important for us to become more biodiverse and attract wildlife to this park and make it a habitat for different species by providing both food and shelter.
“This has been a real community project and I would like to thank the volunteers, local schools and different community groups who have helped with planting and the develop the plans.”
The saplings were donated by the Woodland Trust and planted by volunteers and members of the parish council.
Wildlife surveys have taken place at the open space from March to July this year and they have shown 65 species of plants, 25 species of birds and 15 species of mature trees and hedgerow shrubs. These surveys will continue to take place to monitor the impact that it is having on attracting wildlife to the area.
Information boards will also be added to the park to highlight the project and the types of wildlife that can be found at Jubilee Park.
The Council maintains over 600 acres of open spaces in the borough through its partner idverde.
ENDS