CONTROVERSIAL wildflower meadows at Warwick’s St Nicholas Park are now in full bloom.
But opponents say while they may look ‘beautiful’ for a couple of months during the summer they are still in the wrong place.
The meadow was planted in the spring by the Warwick District Council to help improve the biodiversity of the park and provide added interest for visitors as well as creating an educational resource for schools.
Council parks spokesman David Shilton said: “I am absolutely delighted that our wildflower meadow project has proved to be so successful.
“Not only have we had some lovely feedback from park-users, but we have also created a haven for wildlife including butterflies, bees and moths.
“If you haven’t visited the park recently I would urge you to go within the next couple of weeks, when the meadow is still looking at its best.”
Friends of St Nicholas Park, which campaigned vigorously to try and stop the creation of meadows, remain unconvinced.
Friends chair Linda Bromley said: “I have been one of the first to agree they are beautiful – as they always are when in flower. They would have looked just as beautiful in more appropriate places such as the slopes of Myton Fields, the eastern end or some of the other neglected areas of the park.
“What we objected to were the locations chosen which were the main recreation areas where people enjoy playing football, walking and exercising.
“In summer months the park is packed with people picnicing and enjoying the green space and we did not want the recreation area reduced as it is so precious for our well-being.
“I have heard hayfever sufferers complaining that they cannot now walk around the park.”
Council chiefs say when the meadow has finished flowering for the season it will be cut for the winter to stop the grasses from dominating the flowers.
