No Mow May to return after complaints in 2023

A council aims to address complaints about an ecology initiative in 2023 over the likes of poor visibility at road junctions, before it is re-launched next month.

Warwick District Council's No Mow May will see parks and open spaces left to grow, with residents encouraged to let their gardens run free too.

Bosses declared an ecological emergency in 2022 and say leaving grass to grow gives wild plants and insects a boost.

But after complaints from residents, the council says the likes of road verges, sports pitches and cemeteries will be exempt.

"Last year was the first time the council supported this initiative and feedback received from residents has been used to guide the initiative this year," a council statement read.

"As always, safety is paramount and there will be a change to the way highway verges are managed to maintain visibility.

"Council housing estates, children’s play areas, sports pitches and cemeteries will be excluded and the council will continue to mow these locations."

Councillor Will Roberts, portfolio holder for neighbourhood services, said No Mow May was an important part of the local authority's biodiversity action programme.

"Allowing grass and wildflowers to grow unbothered for a month creates habitats and food sources for early-season pollinators when other flowers are scarce," he said.

Similar schemes have also been run in other parts of the country, including Suffolk and West Yorkshire.

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