Westmorland and Furness Conservation Project Wins Prestigious National Award for Pollinator Protection
A collaborative environmental initiative in the North West of England has been recognized on the national stage for its success in reversing biodiversity loss. The "Planting for Pollinators" project, a partnership between Westmorland and Furness Council and the Cumbria Wildlife Trust, has been honored with The Bees’ Needs Champion Award by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).
The award serves as a testament to the project’s exceptional efforts to protect the UK’s vital pollinator populations, which have faced significant declines in recent decades.
Transforming Landscapes into Habitats
Launched in 2023, the Planting for Pollinators project has already made a tangible impact on the local landscape. To date, 22 sites have been converted into species-rich lowland meadows or pollinator-friendly community gardens. This transformation covers 4.2 hectares of land, creating essential "stepping stones" for insects in the heart of towns and villages across the region.
Beyond the physical transformation, the project has prioritized community engagement. Over the past three years, the Cumbria Wildlife Trust has led a comprehensive program of workshops and training events, equipping schools, town councils, and local residents with the practical skills needed to cultivate and manage these thriving natural spaces.
A Critical Response to Ecological Decline
The timing of the project is significant. Recent data indicates that wild pollinator populations—including beloved species like bumblebees, butterflies, and hoverflies—have declined by up to 34% over the last decade.
"Nature reserves are simply not enough to help support these species alone," explained Tanya St. Pierre, Grassland and Pollinator Team Manager for the Cumbria Wildlife Trust. "We’ve been able to work closely with communities, groups, and schools to provide the opportunity and skills needed to establish and manage natural wildflower-rich habitats. I’m delighted to say that over 700 people have directly taken action to help support pollinators."
A Blueprint for Local Action
Councillor John Murray, Cabinet Member for Climate, Biodiversity, and Regulatory Services, expressed his pride in the project’s success, highlighting the crucial role that insects play in food production and ecosystem health.
"We can all take simple steps to help protect our pollinators," Councillor Murray noted. "From growing more nectar-rich flowers and trees to letting patches of garden grow wild, cutting the grass less often, and avoiding pesticides—everyone has a part to play in ensuring these buzzing insects continue to thrive."
Looking Ahead
The award from DEFRA acknowledges not only the work already completed but the ongoing commitment of the council and the trust to maintain these sites sustainably. As the project continues to evolve, organisers are encouraging more residents to get involved in the movement to protect local biodiversity.
For those interested in contributing to the project’s future, the council and the trust are welcoming new volunteers. Inquiries can be sent via email to: pollinators@cumbriawildlifetrust.org.uk.
