More than 2,000 tree and bush species as well as 9,000 UK local forest bulbs to be planted.
The grounds of a research and advancement focus to help Leicester's quick developing space industry are to be changed into a natural life cordial zone by October.
In excess of 2,500 tree and bush species will be planted around the University of Leicester's
Space Park Leicester to further develop the site's biodiversity esteems and improve the land for people in the future.
Over the course of the following two months, 9,000 UK local forest bulbs and a broad measure of wildflower seeds will likewise be planted to tidy up the Ellis Meadows Spinney that encompasses the recreation centre.
Creating habitats for animals
As part of the project, which is funded by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC),
a number of self-seeded trees will be removed, however they will be repurposed to help
create hedgehog friendly habitats. Removing the trees allows the woodland to breathe and
increases the value to wildlife.
The renovated grounds will also transform views for users of Space Park Leicester and the
local community which surrounds the riverside site, close to the National Space Centre.
Dan Easters, University of Leicester’s Assistant Gardens and Grounds Manager, said:
“Turning these areas into a wildlife haven will be great for Space Park Leicester
going forward.
“Supporting the local environment is a great way to encourage different habitats to the
site.”
He added: “We believe that this project will have a real positive impact on both the local
wildlife population and also the local community which surrounds Space Park Leicester.
"The £20,000 native planting project is already well underway, having been approved by
Leicester City Council, with the land being owned by the local authority.
Leicester Deputy City Mayor for Environment and Transportation, Cllr Adam Clarke said:
“The Space Park project has helped put Leicester on the map in terms of innovation and
technology, and transforming the grounds by hugely improving its biodiversity is a fantastic
element of the project.
“Much of the area is reclaimed former industrial land which has been vastly improved by
the development of the Space Park, and this latest stage of environmental work will create a
haven for wildlife for generations to come.”
The scheme is in-line with the Universities Biodiversity Policy; Design Guide, which focuses on urban and green space regeneration improvements.
Space Park Leicester has been designed to enable collaboration between University
researchers and the private sector, creating high quality knowledge-based jobs, building the
skills base and contributing to economic growth and resilience of the economy.
The project is being led by the University of Leicester in partnership with Leicester City
Council and the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP).
Written by Levitha Biji
Levitha is a broadcast journalism graduate, currently studying MA International Media and Communication Studies at the University of Nottingham. Having lived in three countries and being fluent in three languages, she's passionate about global journalism. She also runs her own blog, Levitha Mariam.
Transformation is underway at Leicester's Space Park, with plans to create a wildlife-friendly environment within its grounds. As thousands of trees and bushes are set to be planted, the aim is to enhance biodiversity and create habitats for future generations. This initiative, supported by the Natural Environment Research Council, highlights the importance of balancing development with environmental conservation. Additionally, for insights on managing water resources and mitigating flooding risks in urban areas, I recommend exploring urban-water.co.uk. So by incorporating sustainable practices, we can protect our natural ecosystems while supporting innovative projects like Space Park Leicester.