Grants of up to £100,000 are to be offered to projects across the West of England which support the region’s bees.
The new funding is being launched by Metro Mayor Dan Norris today, Thursday 4th August, at Grow Batheaston.
Whether it is planting blooming wildflower meadows in schools, installing bee-friendly green roofs on community buildings or working hand in hand with local people to construct brand-new “bee paths”, the grants will help pollinator-loving groups who are encouraged to apply.
Habitat loss and bee-harming pesticide use mean 35 UK bee species could go extinct in the next few years. However, simple steps such as planting trees and wildflowers can make a real difference.
Speaking ahead of the visit to Grow Batheaston, Metro Mayor Dan Norris who has pledged to make the West of England the “Bee and Pollinator Capital of the UK”, said:: “I’ve made bees a priority for the West of England Combined Authority I lead.
“Bees are quite simply vital to make sure crops are pollinated and we have food to eat. But our pollinator pals have faced a tough few years so they need a helping hand.
“That’s why I am delighted to announce this £1 million for projects looking to protect and expand habitats for our food heroes. Together, let’s “Bee” the change we want to see.”
Grow Batheaston is a Bath charity set up during the first Covid lockdown. It has inspired the Batheaston community to plant their very own wildflower meadows to help the region’s food heroes.
Thanks to their efforts, over 500 native trees, 50 fruit trees and wildflower meadow have been planted, with the area now home to bees, butterflies, hoverflies and ladybirds.
They also started their own Bee Club for residents to learn how to keep bees and get their very own beehive.
The closing date for applications is 18th September 2022. To apply, click here.
