Life on the Verge: Wildlife and Biodiversity Planning

Imagine the key green spaces around Buckfastleigh and Buckfast becoming havens for wildlife and awash with Dartmoor wildflowers. We’ve all been hearing about wildlife declines and the loss of their habitat. Once common species, from bumblebees to butterflies, are struggling – 56% of all UK species have declined in abundance since 1970. The good news is we can all help to reverse these trends. Our green spaces, verges, parks and gardens can be part of the solution.

Every Parish Council in Devon now has the opportunity to take on the responsibility for managing road verges from Devon County Council. Since 2015, DCC have only been cutting a handful of grassland verges for health and safety reasons and leaving the rest unmanaged. If the Parish Council takes the management over, the verges around the Parish could be managed for nature.

If you would like to hear more about this proposal /join in the debate/find out how to get involved, then come to Buckfastleigh Town Hall on 12^th September at 6.30 pm.  Donna Cox from Moor Meadows will give an introductory talk and renowned Dartmoor naturalist John Walters will be give a fascinating presentation on the Life on the Verge.  If weather permits we will visit some of the sites in Buckfastleigh interested in taking part.”