Ardwick Stepping Stones

Ardwick is one of the most deprived areas in the country, seeing little action to retain its diminishing green spaces. This has contributed to the local area seeing a loss of around 65% of local biodiversity. Ardwick Climate Action’s aims are to regenerate and rewild areas for the community, offering a series of green spaces that serve to educate and engage local people.

Ardwick Stepping Stones will establish connected green spaces between the city centre and the University of Manchester, creating new and improved habits for nature and people. The project will see residents and local groups engaged in a series of events which also highlight wider environmental concerns and raise awareness of the climate emergency.

In total, around 11 sites are set to benefit from the grant, with interventions including:

• Communal composting stations at each site - thanks to carbon capture properties, these will also help mitigate travel emissions incurred by taking waste off site.

• A tool hire shop, allowing the community to get involved in nature by eliminating a key hurdle to local participation.

• Wildflower meadows at various points in Ardwick and Brunswick.

• Bird and bat boxes in the shape of iconic Manchester buildings will be placed at all sites to encourage wildlife, further boosting local biodiversity. This will be done with advice from the Eden Project, helping ensure these sites are utilised year on year.

• Working with City of Trees and Festival Manchester to plant trees that will have a great impact on biodiversity and climate change through providing shade and habitats for all.

• Raised vegetable and fruit beds showcasing tailored, seasonal produce that can be collected once mature.

• The St. Saviour’s Church site will be regenerated with support from the Museum of Manchester's botany department, utilising planting that illustrates the warming of the planet, with a focus on foliage that would not have survived as little as a decade ago.

• A world record attempt for most bulbs planted and most people gathered to plant bulbs, all working to create beautiful spaces that generations will be able to enjoy.

• Digitally interactive and educational signage, including signs that illustrate what has been planted and the effects on local biodiversity.

Ardwick Climate Action welcomes support from anyone who wants to get involved - please email ardwickclimate@gmail.com or visit www.ardwickclimateaction.co.uk for more details.