BCP Council says it will adapt its controversial ‘Let it Grow’ grass biodiversity scheme having “listened to residents’ concerns” during the trial period last year.

A senior councillor has said that grass in “areas of importance” across the conurbation will be kept tidy, however also said that some areas “will not be cut”.

The ‘Let it Grow’ scheme launched in July last year and saw an allowance for grass to grow in open spaces, on roundabouts and verges for longer periods without being cut to help increase biodiversity.

However, the trial proved controversial with some residents and the Daily Echo published numerous reports of complaints that the scheme had “ruined” local green areas, including children’s play areas and cemeteries.

Bournemouth Echo: The Let it Grow scheme was criticised by residents across the conurbationThe Let it Grow scheme was criticised by residents across the conurbation

In August last year, the council prepared a U-turn on parts of the trial before the original September review date.

Council leader Drew Mellor said: “Our trial approach to grass management has a lot of benefits. I am also aware that it has created a lot of debate and has become controversial.

“Part of trialling something is to take soundings from those affected, and I’ve heard loud and clear that there are some areas where the trial is not engendering a sense of pride in place.”

More than seven months later, BCP Council will soon create a map feature on its website to allow residents to check what areas are being cut.

Portfolio holder for environment and place, Cllr Mark Anderson said: “In response to our declaration of a climate and ecological emergency, we are continuing to trial several changes to the way some green spaces across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole are managed.

Bournemouth Echo: Children's play area in Hamworthy in July, 2021Children's play area in Hamworthy in July, 2021

“We have listened to residents’ concerns and these changes will help us to develop policies and procedures that are sustainable, help tackle climate change and improve conditions for wildlife whilst ensuring areas of importance are kept safe and tidy.

“So, some areas of grass will not be cut, and others will be cut less frequently. Benefits of wild meadows include an increase in biodiversity and carbon sequestration. We are very lucky to see rare plants and wonderful species such as orchids and gatekeeper butterflies.

“Informal footpaths and areas for picnics and recreation may also be cut in larger meadows to allow residents and visitors to enjoy their surroundings.”

The council is in the process of updating its webpage with information, FAQs and the new map feature.