More wildflower meadows and “areas of woodland” planned to boost biodiversity in Wrexham

Ten wildflower areas have been planted on roadside verges across Wrexham in the last year, with plans from the council identify more suitable areas.

Details of the work and further plans to boost biodiversity across the county borough are outlined in a report due before members of the council’s homes and environment scrutiny committee on Wednesday afternoon.

It includes the creation of the new wildflower areas and details of the planting scheme alongside roads and roundabouts in the future.

However it is noted in the report that not everywhere will be “suitable” as visibility splays are for road users must be maintained.

The results of such schemes can also take time.

The report says: “In 2020/21 we have planted ten wildflower areas on highway verges across the County Borough, and it is intended to identify other suitable areas for future planting schemes.

“To maximise the benefit of these areas, the cuttings need to be removed and composted.

“We have now purchased ‘cut and collect’ machinery which allows us to undertake this work effectively, as well as provided training to grounds maintenance staff to enable them to work in this new way.

“We continue to engage with partners such as North Wales Wildlife Trust to expand our knowledge and experience in this area.

“As we look to expand these areas of planting, we must manage expectations. Not all locations will be appropriate/benefit from such schemes, and where they are implemented, the results can take time.

“In addition, we need to consider carefully any health and safety issues that arise, and ensure that highway safety will not be compromised by ensuring that visibility splays are maintained.”

Work has also taken place with local communities and schools to create more than 12,000 sq/m of wildflower meadows, and planted approximately 160 trees and 700 saplings

It is estimated this has saved approximately 235 tonnes of carbon per year.

The report adds: “As we work to address our Climate Emergency our commitment to protecting and enhancing biodiversity is more important than ever.

“Our Decarbonisation Plan contains a commitment to invest in woodland and wildflower planting for carbon sequestration; working with planning and ecology colleagues to deliver ambitious and innovative projects, such as:

• Progressing with the dedication of open-spaces within Country Parks under Green Spaces for Good
• Identifying opportunities for further wildflower planting on verges, roundabouts and within other areas of open-space
• The creation of new areas of woodland, and the protection/enhancement of existing trees and woodland – working in partnership with other organisations under the ‘Wrexham Forest’ project
• Identifying key communities to work with volunteers to create areas of woodland and wildflower planting within local communities.

Green infrastructure improvements in the town-centre have included street-trees, wildflower planting and the creating of a ‘roof-garden’ in Ty Pawb.

The report will be debated by members of Wrexham Council’s homes and environment scrutiny committee on Wednesday 17 November.