Bath-based housing association Curo is working with Avon Wildlife Trust’s Nextdoor Nature project to breathe new life into The Plantation on Manor Copse Road in Writhlington.
Consultations have already taken place to ask the community what they would like to see in the area, and when complete, it will be a space for children to play among nature, for people to gather, and for wildlife to live. New signage will also be put up, highlighting some of the plants, animals and insects that can be found.
Work has already begun to clear some of the overgrowth, reinstate the woodland pathway and to remove rubbish that had been dumped. Over the coming winter months, planting will include bulbs, a section of diverse native hedgerow and trees. Seating will also be restored and a natural play space for children will be created, amongst wildlife habitats, such as bat boxes and hedgehog hotels. It is hoped that work will be completed by spring 2025.
Curo Estates Advisor, Henry Yates, said, “We’re delighted to be working with Avon Wildlife Trust to create a space that the whole community can enjoy. Curo is committed to providing attractive green spaces for our customers and local communities, and to promoting biodiversity and sustainability.”
Nextdoor Nature engagement officer, Stephanie Sharkey, added, “The Plantation has fantastic potential to be a place for both wildlife and people to thrive. We want to make sure this space is looked after for years to come, so will be involving local families every step of the way. When wildlife is protected and cared for, it gives back in a thousand different ways.”
There will be a bat box building workshop at Writhlington Village Hall on 12 October from 10.30am to 12.30pm.
Everyone is also invited to come along to help plant bulbs at The Plantation on 29 October from 10.30am to 1pm.
The Nextdoor Nature project is funded by the West of England Combined Authority through the UKSPF, administered by the West of England Combined Authority.