WHAT IS THE KNUTSFORD NATURE ACTION PLAN?
The Knutsford Nature Action Plan was adopted in March 2020 as part of our commitment to tackling climate change and improving the town’s biodiversity and natural habitats. It was developed with advice from Cheshire Wildlife Trust and the lead resident from the Environment and Open Spaces group of the Neighbourhood Plan who we asked the question – what can Knutsford do for nature?
We have set aside a significant budget to help us achieve these missions, but we need the support of community groups and residents to really be successful.
OUR PLAN OF ACTION
WHAT WE’VE DONE
- Identified potential tree planting locations across the town
- Identified verges for planting schemes
- Identified open spaces where hedges can replace fencing
- Written to Cheshire East Council urging permission to be given for tree planting on highway verges
- Starting writing to planning applicants to encourage tree planting / replacement planting
- Launched a Tree Planting Mission
- Sown a Cheshire wildflower meadow on the Barncroft
- Installed a bug hotel at Walllwood and Higher Town Green
- Installed bat and bird boxes on our open spaces
- Organised an annual bulb planting programme
WHAT WE’LL DO
- Launch a campaign to promote hedgehog holes
- Work with landowners to create a wildlife corridor from Bluebell Wood to the Heath
- Work with landowners to create a wildlife corridor from St John’s Wood to Booths Mere
- Identify ponds for planting improvement schemes
- Encourage landowners to plant trees and hedges to connect wildlife corridors
HOW MANY TREES HAS KNUTSFORD PLANTED?
Each tree represents 1000 trees, as more are planted the leaves will grow. To date, the Town Council has planted 1,471 trees in the town.