Our Story
The decline of wildflowers is a factor behind the drop in pollinating insect numbers in the UK, something that the Urban BESS project has scientifically measured by looking at introducing perennial meadows into urban areas.
Not surprisingly, open green spaces consisting of a few species of turf grass offer little in the way of wildlife habitat. Regular mowing maintains a landscape that is mostly barren as it prevents plants from flowering and producing seeds.
Deciding to manage these green areas differently, Brent Council sowed wildflower meadows across some of the borough's parks and open spaces to create a seven-mile-long "bee corridor". The team also curated the mix of wildflowers to encourage a host of different pollinators to return.
Our advice
Maintained lawns can be made into important wildlife habitats by changing how they're managed. It can be challenging at first. Many people didn't like the long grass, and it takes time for the wildflowers to appear.
Fast track with a mix of seed types. Engage local residents: give away free wildflower seeds, involve community groups, and produce infographics to explain the annual lifecycle of meadows.
This scheme saves the council money, by reducing the number of times grass has to be cut from 16 times per year to once.
Our Changeprint
Our Changeprint can be measured by hectares of turf converted into perennial wildflower meadows; the increase in the number and diversity of pollinating insects recorded; the number of residents/groups involved and wildflower seed packs distributed; positive feedback from local residents in surveys; ongoing reduction in annual mowing/maintenance costs for the council.
