CHANGES are being introduced to grass cutting across the borough as the council looks at 'rewilding' plans.

‘Rewilding’ means restoring, reclaiming, and protecting natural habitats and native species and rewilding of urban areas is being encouraged across the country.

Reading Borough Council (RBC) has said “most of the borough’s verges will continue to be mowed as normal” but it will include changes to grass cutting in some areas.

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In a statement online, RBC said: "Most of the borough’s verges will continue to be mowed as normal.

“All verges in residential areas that are crossed regularly by driveways, and all small areas of grass will be mown.

“At present, the grass is growing very fast, so it is difficult to keep everything looking smart, but, later in the season, as the rate of growth slows, this will be addressed.

“The unmown areas will look cared for with a mown strip alongside roadways and footpaths, and desire lines cut through some of them to help with walking access.”

The changes come as part of the council's efforts to better biodiversity in the area as well as a response to the council's declaration of a climate emergency in 2018.

Within the ‘Nature’ theme of the strategy is a wide-ranging requirement to improve the urban environment for flora and fauna.

The council is working to provide an action plan of solutions to climate challenges, such as improving habitats to help wildlife and people adapt to the impacts of climate change.

The changes to grass cutting to highway verges is hoped will allow for more 'species-rich long grass' and provide corridors for small animals and insects to move around town, as well as providing food for birds and insects.

Cllr Karen Rowland, Lead Councillor for Recreation, said: “I am very excited about this project as rewilding connects people back with nature.

“This is a perfect time to do it – when residents are walking and cycling more."

She continued: “We know some verges will look wonderful because they are species-rich, whilst others will not, and we need to know to which these are.

“The appearance will change over the course of the summer, and we cannot understand how without trialling growth in these areas.

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“We are not making any permanent changes, and we can reintroduce mowing where rewilding does not ‘work’ either ecologically or visually. As such, this is essentially a ‘live’ consultation. We very much encourage you to tell us what you think. You can send us an email at rewilding@reading.gov.uk and visit www.reading.gov.uk/rewilding to find out more.”

The project will also include signs and activities that can be downloaded for families to get involved.

The council will review this project at the end of the summer and will make specific proposals to guide future mowing practice.