Biodiversity & Social Interaction Improvements, Maple Tree Area, St Matthews Str

Local residents, the ‘MAPLE Group’, hope to enhance a neglected but potentially much loved small green space. This lies underneath and around the mature Silver Maple Tree on St Matthew’s Street, opposite Edward Street (photo taken August 2022). We propose (a) two durable benches, at right-angles to each other, near western and northern edges of the grassy area; (b) a variety of insect-friendly biodiversity improvements; and (c) a dual-rubbish bin at the northeast corner. For consultation with local residents, businesses and eg St Matthew’s Primary School and Cherry Trees Day Centre – seeking support for general concept and agreement on details. Better use of this locally rare and precious green space would provide a valuable area for social interaction, while boosting green assets, helping to address both climate and biodiversity crises.

Elements sought: https://www.recycledfurniture.co.uk/Benches-and-Seating/Captains-Treble-Seat [2x] (£925, 25-year guarantee, maintenance-free, 100% recycled, wood-effect); https://www.recycledfurniture.co.uk/Planters-and-Raised-Beds/Muscari-Planter [2x] (£1400, reduces compression of tree roots; for eastern edge, near cable boxes); https://www.hedgesdirect.co.uk/acatalog/Mixed-Native-Hedging-Hawthorn-Based.html  £100, mixed native hedging for western edge etc, boosting biodiversity); https://www.suttons.co.uk/flower-plants/flowering-bulbs/woodland-garden-saver-collection_mh10381 [3x] (£90, shade-tolerant woodland bulbs, for planting around edge, between the concrete protective bollards); https://www.diy.com/departments/cyclamen-berrylicious-autumn-bedding-plant-pack-of-6/1750677_BQ.prd [10x] (£65, shade-tolerant autumn colour under tree); https://rocketgro.co.uk/product/peat-free-soil-improver [5x] (£50, peat-free soil improver); https://www.bin-shop.co.uk/hardwood-dual-litter-recycling-bin-78-litre [1x] (£450, bin); funds for consultation + labour to install.