About biodiversity
Biodiversity is the variety of all living things on our planet. More biodiversity means a wider variety of species, habitats and ecosystems.
Why it matters
Since the 1930s, the UK has lost an estimated 97% of its wildflower meadows (according to research from Natural England, 2020). This has had a serious impact on pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hoverflies, which rely on flowering plants for food and habitat.
The Environment Act 2021 introduced more biodiversity duty for councils in England. This means we must think more about how we can conserve and enhance biodiversity in everything we do.
About the scheme
To help reverse the decline in biodiversity, we’re trialling a conservation grass verge scheme. This is a local initiative designed to transform selected grass verges into vibrant, biodiverse spaces that support wildlife and bring nature closer to our communities.
One way we’re doing this is by changing how we manage certain grass verges. These changes aim to:
- increase the biodiversity value of grass verges
- reduce the frequency of seasonal grass cutting
- reduce the use of herbicide (weed killer)
- lower the carbon footprint of verge maintenance
- maintain road safety while exploring new management methods
- create a cost-effective way to manage verges for biodiversity across Stockport
How it works
Our pilot scheme follows a simple but effective approach, inspired by successful projects in other councils. It includes a:
- spring cut (April); one mow with all cuttings removed
- autumn cut (around September); one mow with all cuttings removed
No herbicide (weed killer) will be used in the pilot areas.
Between April and September, the grass will be left to grow and flower, creating mini-meadows that support pollinators and provide a splash of natural beauty.
Over time, this method encourages a greater diversity of wildflowers to thrive, simply by cutting at the right times and removing the cuttings.
Together, we can make Stockport greener, wilder and more beautiful for people and for nature.
Get involved
If you'd like your area to be considered for the scheme, you can contact us at ecology@stockport.gov.uk.
We also welcome your feedback on the project so far. If you have any thoughts, questions, or concerns, do not hesitate to get in touch.