In 2006 we developed site-specific Biodiversity Action Plans for Meadowhall Shopping Centre in Sheffield and Blythe Valley Park in Solihull. These will be implemented from 2007 onwards.
The Meadowhall Plan identifies important habitats and species to restore wildlife to the Centre’s landscape. Priority habitats include the River Don, which flows alongside Meadowhall. The river has suffered from pollution, modification and land contamination since the Industrial Revolution. Priority birdlife includes House Sparrows, Tree Sparrows, Song Thrushes, Starlings, Black-headed Gulls, Redwings, Kingfishers and Mistle Thrushes. Key actions include:
- Controlling invasive species to allow native species to grow, working in partnership with Sheffield Wildlife Trust
- Phased replacing of exotic planting with native vegetation of local origin
- Encouraging birdlife by installing bird boxes in suitable locations
- Working with the Environment Agency and Sheffield Wildlife Trust to improve access for otters and fish through the weir on the River Don
- Developing plans for a green roof to encourage biodiversity and improve the energy efficiency of the building through insulation
- Developing the Nature Trail to enhance wildlife habitats and improve links for pedestrians, cyclists and horse-riders.
The Blythe Valley Park Plan contains measures to improve the biodiversity of habitats, including the extensive water, woodland and grassland areas. This will encourage a wider range of plants and animals to exist on the site. Key actions include:
- Providing a bird hide to enable users of the park to observe birds and other wildlife at first hand
- Agreeing management priorities for the River Blythe Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) with Natural England
- Implementing a rotational cycle of reedbed cutting
- Installing a floating platform for roosting birds
- Diversifying some woodland areas and retain dead wood habitat
- Installing a bird feeding station and nesting boxes for birds and bats.
Even before the development of a site-specific Plan for Blythe Valley Park the team implemented biodiversity initiatives including working with Warwickshire Wildlife Trust to develop an Education Pack for the many school parties who visit the site. Members of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds in Solihull enjoyed a bird watching walk around the park. Willow whips were planted with the help of children from Leapfrog Day Nursery. Occupiers also enjoyed a series of lunch-time guided walks to learn more about the diverse wildlife and habitats. New features included a bird feeding station and improved facilities for recording wildlife sightings. Recent wildlife sightings include Tawny Owls, Kestrel, Reed Bunting, Sedge Warbler and Little Grebes.
