Remember when our gardens and parks were full of butterflies and bees, and bursting with life? Unfortunately, the UK is now one of the most nature depleted countries in the world. According to the recent State of Nature report, nearly 1 in 6 species of plants and animals (16.1%) in the UK are now threatened with extinction due to habitat-loss, pollution and other factors. Here in Cheshire, the situation is particularly challenging. Less than 5% of Cheshire has tree cover, putting wildlife at severe risk of extinction. 

Rewilding the village

At Hartford Parish Council, we aim to support biodiversity as much as we can. From December 2024 to January 2026, we have planted 1000 native tree and bush saplings around the village – mainly on the Green Field and Grange Park. These saplings were all free of charge from the Woodland Trust. We plan to plant 400 more in Winter 2026.

We have stopped using pesticides on all of the land that we manage, and we only use herbicides when necessary as a last resort, to treat invasive species such as Knotweed. 

We manage Jubilee Wood (opposite the church on Chester Road) and Ann Todd Gardens (the woodland next to Grange Park), and aim to do so in a way that allows native species to flourish, and our volunteers help us to maintain our fragrant herb beds, alongside the Green Field. 

We are also supporting local groups, for example, providing grant funding to help volunteers maintain the Marshall’s Arm nature reserve, providing a grant to a primary school to set up a school garden, and supporting Hartford Cycle Hub. 

Saving money and resources

As well as our efforts to support nature in the village, we are working to reduce waste and emissions, and save costs. In the Village Hall, we have switched to LED lights and a renewable energy provider, whilst at the Pavilion on the Green Field, we have installed eco-friendly, economical solar panels, and outdoor solar lighting along the path. 

For residents, we are running a Equipment Loan Scheme. With the scheme, you can borrow gazebos, a thermal camera, a fruit press and other equipment, free of charge. 

Find out more and share your views!

Alongside the examples of our work above, we are planning many more activities to support biodiversity. Take a look at our Biodiversity action plan.

We welcome your thoughts on our Biodiversity action plan. Please email clerks@hartfordparishcouncil.org with any ideas or comments.