Ribble Valley Borough Council Champions Biodiversity with Edisford Rewilding Scheme
A rewilding scheme at the former pitch and putt site in Edisford is helping to restore biodiversity in the Ribble Valley and reconnect residents with nature.
Over the past two-year period, a section of the former pitch and putt site on Edisford riverbank has been returned to its natural uncultivated state, allowing wildflowers and grasses to flourish, whilst also restoring the natural habits for both mammals and insects.
The Ribble Valley is rich in biodiversity along its rivers, in its parks, gardens and open spaces. Important in its own right, and as an indicator of the wider health of the environment, biodiversity also can improve people’s quality of life, providing leisure and educational resources whilst also providing opportunities to experience the natural world. Biodiversity can also help us to adapt to and fight climate change.
Ricky Newmark, chairman of Ribble Valley Borough Council's community services committee said: “For Ribble Valley Borough Council, our ambition is to protect and enhance our local environment.
“Improving the biodiversity of our open spaces is a key element in helping us to achieve this. Rewilding schemes, such as the one at Edisford, allow us to manage our biodiversity, particularly in creating spaces where pollinating insects and small mammals can be actively encouraged.
“The scheme includes a cut path to allow residents and visitors alike to enjoy the space and we are looking forward to seeing what becomes established.
“In addition, not having to cut the grass on the usual 10-day cycle also means less tractor use, which, of course, is better for the environment.”
Initial feedback from residents indicates that the scheme has been well received and Ribble Valley Borough Council are hoping to consider other areas for roll out in the near future.