What are we doing?
Alongside the District Council we are changing how we manage amenity grass sites to increase biodiversity and reduce our carbon footprint.
Where?
We have identified various areas in the village where meadow grass can be left uncut or where we can introduce wildflowers. These include an area near Willow Pond on the Recreation Ground, part of the bank along Church Street and strips along the footpath at Daffodil Court. We have also sown a floral mix of wildflowers around the trees at Foxglove, Jasmine and an area on Primrose Drive.
Why?
There are several benefits to insects and other wildlife of reassessing how we manage our open spaces. Amenity cut grass, which is the grass that is cut short for recreational purposes, often lacks biodiversity due to the frequency and intensity of mowing. Introducing areas of tall grass and floral meadow will enable more plants, insects, birds and mammals to flourish. All the designated areas will still be maintained around the edges of footpaths or boundaries to make it clear that we have left it intentionally and not just forgotten to cut it. Signage explaining the project with a QR code to our website will be placed at every site so that residents can find out more information.
How to get involved
Yaxley land ownership is quite complicated with areas being owned by the District and County Councils and housing developers. We would be happy to discuss with residents any areas that they feel would benefit this approach, we may not own the land but would be able to advise as to who does. Huntingdonshire District Council is pursuing a similar scheme and between us we aim to improve the biodiversity of the land we have.
Useful Links
For more information on biodiversity please see the below links.
Plantlife Website
WWF What is biodiversity
Wildlife Trust Net gain briefing
NFU Achieving Net Zero