Stroud District Council has launched The Nature Recovery Project, to restore natural areas and promote biodiversity across the district.
The new project encourages engagement from residents and schools to increase plant species diversity and promote outdoor activities, with more than 30 areas identified for the project.
The first recovery area in Heath Court, Dursley welcomed a group of children, the ‘Eco Warriors’, from Dursley CofE Primary Academy, to take part in educational activities related to nature recovery. Residents are also invited to take part in the project, with opportunities such as planting days, educational workshops, and the chance to grow vegetables in community planters.
Stroud District Council Housing Committee Chair Gary Luff said:
“It is fantastic to see the Tenant Engagement Team working with local school children to encourage a nature recovery area on housing land. The nature recovery project will enrich our land for wildlife, allowing plants to spread and thrive. The area will also encourage our residents to make the most of the wellbeing benefits that connecting with nature supports.”
The scheme aims to repair damaged habitats for wildlife to flourish, while tenants can enjoy the improved green spaces. Currently wild chives and foxgloves are growing, with the potential for many more species. Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust is a project partner, with expertise in biodiversity and habitat management, to ensure the scheme is effective and sustainable.
Dursley ward Councillor Helen Caton Hughes said:
“This pilot project is brilliant. It’s fun, and could help more types of plants grow here, while also making the soil healthier. It’s also lovely that, as locals, we can help improve the natural spaces where we live. This fits perfectly with what the council is trying to do – looking after our environment and bringing our community closer together.”
Heath Court marks the beginning of this exciting project, with plans to expand and collaborate with more schools, local businesses and community groups.
If you would like to participate, please fill out this form: Nature Recovery Project – Expression of Interest 2025
Each scheme will have a plaque, highlighting the area is a Nature Recovery Area with a QR code to a dedicated biodiversity page on the Stroud District Council website.