Creating new habitats for nature
The best way to create homes for nature is by introducing suitable plants and habitats for different types of wildlife to use. That’s why we have teamed up with Groundwork to launch a new project within a gated area at Bullfinch Walk on the Arrowfield Estate.
What work is currently being done on the project?
We have started to introduce different types of wildlife features to provide areas for invertebrates to live in and we are soon moving onto creating hedgehog homes and features to benefit birds. Local residents have already helped by providing information about the birds which they see around the site. We have decided to make a small, experimental “Rain Garden” feature. We have planted moisture-loving plants at the bottom of this to drain water and prevent pooling. We have surrounded the Rain Garden with one of our new “Beetle Banks”. Beetle Banks are mounds where the grass will be allowed to grow long to provide shelter for different types of Beetles. Grasshoppers and other invertebrates will also benefit from these features.
What are plans for this site in future?
We aim for this site to be used as an educational area for school groups and nature-based events hosted by our Environmental Team. Some residents have direct access onto this site from their gardens and the Groundwork Team listened to their ideas before starting work on the site. We are aiming to create a community space for people to enjoy.
How can I get involved?
We would like to invite volunteers to get involved with creating this new community wildlife space. If you would like to know more about how you can get involved or the plants which we are introducing and any of the wildlife habitat features please contact our Urban Ranger, Debbie Wallace at d.wallace@southwayhousing.co.uk or call us.