South Ribble's parks, woodlands and green spaces are set to become richer habitats for wildlife after South Ribble Borough Council approved plans to create six new Habitat Banks across the borough.
When new housing and commercial developments are built, national planning rules require developers to deliver improvements for nature and wildlife. If suitable projects are not available locally, developers can invest in habitat improvements elsewhere in the country. By creating Habitat Banks in South Ribble, the Council can help ensure that more of this investment is spent within the borough, improving local parks, woodlands, ponds and green spaces so that residents and wildlife benefit directly from future development.
The plans will bring long-term investment into sites in Leyland, Penwortham, Longton, Bamber Bridge, Lostock Hall and Coupe Green, helping to create more wildflower meadows, improve ponds, plant trees, and provide better habitats for a diverse range of local wildlife.
The six locations can be found in designated areas in:
- Church Wood, Bamber Bridge
- Coupe Green Park, Coupe Green
- Lyndale Fields, Lostock Hall
- Middleforth Green Park/Pear Tree Park, Penwortham
- The Grove, Longton
- Worden Park, Leyland
Councillor Kath Unsworth, Cabinet Member for Environment and Streetscene, said:
"We know how much residents value our parks and green spaces, and these plans, approved by our ecologists will help make them even better for both people and wildlife.
"Across the six sites we'll be creating new opportunities for nature to thrive through measures such as wildflower planting, woodland improvements, pond restoration and habitat creation.
"This is about investing in the future of South Ribble's natural environment. By securing long-term improvements to these sites, we can support local wildlife, enhance biodiversity and ensure future generations can continue to enjoy beautiful green spaces across our borough."
Over the coming years, developer investment will support a wide range of environmental improvements including woodland enhancement, pond restoration, tree planting, wildflower meadow creation and the removal of invasive species. These improvements will help create healthier habitats for wildlife while making local green spaces even more attractive places for residents to visit and enjoy.
Importantly, all six sites will remain open to the public. Residents will continue to enjoy the borough's green spaces while new management approaches help nature flourish alongside recreation.
Various activities will be undertaken at each site, depending on local conditions and requirements. Where appropriate, these may include:
- Woodland improvements and additional planting
- New hedgerows and trees
- Pond restoration and habitat improvements
- Removal of invasive plant species
- Enhanced habitats for birds, insects and other wildlife
The Habitat Banks form part of South Ribble Borough Council's wider commitment to enhancing biodiversity, tackling climate change and creating greener, healthier communities across the borough.