Increases in native insect and plant life have occurred in Eldon and Barker Street neighbourhoods

Huge increases in native insect and plant life have occurred in Eldon and Barker Street neighbourhoods following work to improve biodiversity.

Different grass cutting regimes, grass management plus bulb, wildflower and tree planting over the last few years has seen a 400% increase in native species with four new species of butterflies and bees identified.
There has also been a 175% increase in native plants on the estates with three new varieties of plants identified.

We have worked with the National Trust on the award-winning BioBlitz initiative since 2024 where local groups and customers count and record wildlife in areas improved by the housing association. It will now be expanded.

“We cannot believe just how successful our biodiversity work has been over the last few years and these figures show just how important it is to make this effort,” said FCHO's Head of Neighbourhood Care David Wrigley.

“The BioBlitz we undertook in these neighbourhoods with the support of our customers show conclusively how native plants co-evolved - when given this helping hand - with local insects, birds, and other wildlife to provide food and shelter.

“Our work has placed native plants front and centre to attract insects, birds and other mammals while managing invasive species. It has been a great success.”

Mr Wrigley explained BioBlitz is now active in open spaces across Sholver and Littlemoor where more biodiversity measures are up and running. Already up to 10 different types of native species and 12 types of native plants have been counted. Another BioBlitz will take place in these areas next year to confirm the initial success.

Three more neighbourhoods Chadderton, Holts Village and Coldhurst will also come into the project in 2027/28.

He added: “Our customers are loud and clear when they tell us they want to see more trees, wildlife, bulbs and wildflowers and many are supporting our efforts through taking part in a BioBlitz or by becoming Tree Guardian.

"It’s a brilliant team effort across our neighbourhoods and everyone is starting to see real benefits.”