Biodiversity & Grassland Management

Grassland

There are a number of different types of grassland found in Solihull. The value of the grassland for wildlife depends upon a number of factors, particularly the nature of the soil and any previous management. Many pastures have been improved by the use of fertilisers and ploughing as a result of farming activity. These grasslands are typically dominated by rye grass and are relatively species poor. In contrast, species-rich unimproved or semi-improved grasslands have a high conservation value, supporting many colourful butterflies and other insects. Unimproved grassland meadows can have great floral diversity including a variety of grasses, hay rattle, knapweed, devils-bit scabious, and cowslips. Good local examples can be seen at Shadowbrook Meadows near Hampton in Arden and Monkspath Meadow, both of which are Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

Monkspath Meadow

The meadow is an ancient hay meadow of two and a half acres which was retained when Notcutts Garden Centre and the Tesco supermarket was developed. The meadow is a SSSI and Notcutts Garden Centre manages the site under the direction of English Nature. The meadow supports a diverse level of flora of over 150 recorded species. The site is open to the public on one or two weekends in the year. Local schools are also encouraged to visit.

Countryside Stewardship at Malvern and Brueton Park and Elmdon Park

With 95% of wildflower meadows having been lost from the wider countryside, the Council is continuing to make an important contribution to delivery of the Local Biodiversity Action Plan for lowland neutral grassland.  The grasslands at Malvern and Brueton Park and Elmdon Park are managed under a 10 year Countryside Stewardship Scheme (a central Government conservation initiative). In April 2005, seed gathered from a wild flower-rich, lowland hay meadow, from one part of the borough were spread in an area of Elmdon Park to introduce wildflowers. Similarly at Brueton Park, the wet meadow in the Local Wildlife Site (LWS) provided the source of seed for wildflower enhancement in three of the Local Nature Reserve fields. The meadow was cut and ‘green hay’ strewn, allowing plants like greater burnet and knapweed to spread.  In addition, tree planting and scrub and hedgerow management has been undertaken to improve the areas for biodiversity.
Amenity grasslands found in formal parkland and public open spaces have lower wildlife value, as they are closely mown and fertilised. However, they can provide foraging areas for birds and small mammals in urban areas.

In wet areas, often along rivers and streams, marshy grassland can be found. This can be very species rich with various tussock-forming rushes and sedges, meadowsweet, ragged robin, yellow rattle, marsh marigold and southern marsh orchid. Excellent local examples are at Bickenhill Meadows and meadows along the River Blythe (which is a SSSI).  Abandoned land can also develop a diverse flora which often supports a wide variety of insects and other invertebrates.

We can undertake grassland surveys, and give advice on implementing meadow management and after care on Council land and schools. In connection with grassland, we can give guidance on scrub management to increase diversity within a site. See our services and fees details.