Devon wildlife corridor aims to improve mental wellbeing

Volunteers created bug hotels, vertical planters, and a mini library for books

An urban gardening project to help improve mental wellbeing has officially opened in Devon.

The Wildlife Corridor is the latest work by the community group Inner City Seeds, which is working to tackle social isolation in Plymouth.

An alleyway behind the Village Pub in the Stoke area of the city has been transformed into a "wildlife haven".

Volunteers created bug hotels, vertical planters, and a mini library for books.

The project was made possible through funding from the non-profit group Plymouth Octopus Project.

Raising awareness

Helen Moore, from Inner City Seeds, said the group wanted to "show the community what we are all about".

"The aim is to help wildlife in urban spaces and bring awareness. We don't just grow food for people, we grow food for animals, too."

Helen Moore, from Inner City Seeds, wants to inspire people to help local wildlife thrive

She added: "We also provide shelter within the structures, like with the bug hotels."

Ahead of the opening Helen said: "We want to show people in the community what we've achieved.

"It's not just about showing them the corridor but inspiring people to take over urban spaces where they live, and it doesn't have to be a massive change."

Inner City Seeds volunteers describe themselves as wanting to take over unlikely spots, to help local wildlife thrive and to connect communities.