LESSONS have been learnt from last year’s No Mow May, say green-minded council chiefs, as the scheme is set to return in Warwick district.
No Mow May, which aims to create habitat and provide resources for bees and other early-season pollinators, will return for a second year next month.
Grass cutting will again be suspended on highway verges and the majority of the district’s parks and open spaces, while residents will also have the option to join in and let the grass grow in their own gardens in a bid to help wildlife flourish.
But the scheme proved unpopular among many residents when it was adopted for the first time last year.
Residents said at the time that not only had many parts of Warwick been left looking awful but the long grass had potentially dangerous consequences – posing a fire hazard and obscuring oncoming traffic at road junctions.
Other criticisms included pavements became overgrown, with some of the tougher weeds becoming trip hazards, thistles and dandelions became more established and dandelion seeds were being blown onto residents lawns leaving them weed infested.
Residents also pointed out dog mess was either being left in the long grass or could not be found by owners, and large grass areas had become so overgrown that children could not play on them.
Warwick District Council’s grass cutting schedule was also set back significantly in June as it transpired their mowers were not able to cut effectively through the long grass.
But WDC’s neighbourhood services spokesperson Coun Will Roberts said this year’s No Mow May would be better.
He continued: “Participating in No Mow May is an important part of our Biodiversity Action Programme, as it helps us provide vital food sources for pollinators as well as enabling our green spaces and verges to become more resilient to the effects of climate change.
“Last year was very much a learning curve and I want to reassure residents that we have listened to their feedback and will be doing things differently this year, with a particular change to the way we manage highway verges, play areas and cemeteries.
“Nature isn’t neat, but it’s a big part of where we live. Beneath the long grass, wildflowers and what might be viewed as ‘weeds’ lies a thriving habitat of vital species that will help us combat the negative effects of climate change, delivering multiple benefits for wildlife and people.
“We hope you’ll join us in No Mow May and support the work we are doing to preserve and enhance nature in our communities.”
Neighbouring Stratford District Council is also set to take up No Mow May for the first time this May.
