New 'urban mini meadows' created in town

South Hams District Council said 11 new urban mini meadows would be created across Ivybridge

Selected green spaces in Devon are to be transformed into "vibrant wildflower meadows", the council has said.

South Hams District Council said the initiative to create 11 new urban mini meadows was part of its ongoing commitment to enhance local biodiversity and to support wildlife.

A selection of the council-owned spaces had already benefited from relaxed mowing regimes.

The work included removing the top layer of grass, moss, and organic matter, then sowing a locally sourced perennial wildflower mix including yellow rattle which the council said was a key species for meadow creation.

Councillor John Kay, executive member for climate change and biodiversity, said not only would the meadows brighten up the green spaces but also provide much-needed habitats for pollinators and other species.

He said: "We look forward to seeing them flourish and hope to expand the scheme in the coming years.".

'Positive response'

The project was a partnership with ParkLife South West Community Interest Company (CIC) and local volunteers.

It was funded from a planning development specifically allocated for off-site biodiversity measures to enhance habitats in Ivybridge.

Director of ParkLife, Keith Rennells, said Britain had lost 97% of its wildflower meadows over the last century.

"It is important that we create new ones, and these eleven new meadows combine to provide a rich habitat for insects, birds and small mammals," Mr Rennells said.

"We've had a really positive response from the community."

The council added signage would be at each site explaining the project.