More than fourteen thousand spring bulbs have taken root across Stockport's urban landscape, marking a significant step in a community-led initiative to re-wild the town centre. The ambitious planting scheme is a core part of the Wild About Stockport project, spearheaded by Groundwork Greater Manchester.
Community Effort Drives Urban Rewilding
Throughout the autumn, groups of local volunteers dedicated their time to a series of planting events at key locations. Activities were focused on several prominent sites, including the area opposite the former Debenhams store at Wellington Road North and Heaton Lane, St Peters Square with pupils from St Joseph's RC Primary School, and at Great Egerton Street beside the Redrock car park entrance.
At Great Egerton Street alone, a remarkable 8,000 bulbs were planted by a team of Groundwork employees and community volunteers. Beyond bulb planting, the volunteer efforts extended to creating bug hotels and refreshing the planters on Suffragette Square, further enhancing habitats for local wildlife.
Boosting Wellbeing and Biodiversity
The Wild About Stockport initiative was established in 2024 with a clear threefold mission: to re-wild the town centre, increase local biodiversity, and connect both adults and children with nature in the heart of the town. The project has received funding from the UK Government's Shared Prosperity Fund and is delivered by Groundwork in partnership with Stockport Council, Totally Stockport BID, and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA).
Judith Baird, community project lead at Groundwork Greater Manchester, highlighted the project's profound impact on participants. "Many of our volunteers got involved to build confidence, explore new skills, or take gentle steps towards employment," she said. "It was rewarding to see how simply being outdoors and contributing had a positive effect on their wellbeing."
A Blooming Future for Stockport
Lucy Stowell-Smith, strategic lead for urban nature at Groundwork Greater Manchester, emphasised the dual benefits of the scheme. "Wild About Stockport shows how community-led environmental action benefits both people and nature," she stated. "Connecting people with nature through practical activities like this not only improves our town centre for wildlife but also supports the health of our community."
The project team and volunteers now eagerly anticipate the colourful results of their labour, with the 14,000 bulbs expected to create a vibrant display next spring. Residents interested in supporting future Wild About Stockport activities can contact Groundwork Greater Manchester by email at greatermanchester@groundwork.org.uk, by calling 0161 220 1000, or by visiting their website.
