Newport

Grassland management in Newport: Creating Greener Spaces for Communities
In 2022/23, Newport took a big step forward in transforming its green spaces through the Local Places for Nature initiative. By purchasing grass-cutting machinery and increasing the Leave to Grow areas to 75 hectares across the city, the LNP have been able to enhance biodiversity and provide high-quality green spaces for local communities.

Investing in Nature
With new specialist equipment, including a large tractor, trailer, and robo-cutter, they have been able to manage larger and more challenging areas more effectively. These improvements mean that even steep or difficult terrain can be maintained in a way that benefits both people and wildlife.

This approach was welcomed by local residents and decision-makers alike, with growing support for the shift towards more sustainable grassland management. Importantly, they have seen real changes in biodiversity, with an increase in plant and insect species—a clear sign that the cut-and-collect method is working.

A Success Story: Ty Coed, Bettws
One of the most exciting new sites added to the Leave to Grow network this year is Ty Coed in Bettws. Located in a community ranked in the top 10% on the deprivation index, this 4.7-hectare site provides a vital green space on the edge of a housing estate, next to a woodland.

Before the project, Ty Coed was identified as marshy grassland with a good mix of grass and sedge species. Recognising the ecological value of this rare habitat, the LNP created a tailored management plan. Key features included maintaining mown “desire paths” for accessibility while allowing the majority of the site to follow a seasonal cut-and-collect approach.

Restoring Biodiversity
Since the introduction of the Leave to Grow approach at Ty Coed, biodiversity has flourished. Species such as Devil’s Bit Scabious, Dyer’s Greenwood, Greater Butterfly Orchid, and the Marbled White Butterfly have been recorded on site. These species are strong indicators of a healthy meadow, proving that removing excess nutrients from the soil through cut-and-collect management allows dormant seeds to thrive once more.

Alongside new plant life, the site has also seen a boom in invertebrates, further enriching the local ecosystem. This success has encouraged the wider community to get involved in nature conservation.

A Win for People and Wildlife
By expanding Leave to Grow sites across Newport, the LNP are not only improving biodiversity but also providing people with better access to nature. These green spaces play a crucial role in boosting mental and physical well-being, supporting climate change mitigation, and creating more resilient local ecosystems.