Bee S13 Pollinators Project creates a 1.8-mile pollinator habitat trail

To start off the trail, tree saplings were planted along the entire 1.8-mile strip and a new pond was installed at both the Climate Action Hub and Hartcliffe City Farm sites. By early summer, all trees were planted, and the Climate Action Hub roof was reinstalled with a new irrigation system, which was then planted up.

The project reached a major milestone with the successful Pollinators Lantern Parade on 30th September. Over 600 people took part, doubling the expected turnout, highlighting the community's strong connection to the project. Two sculptures marking the endpoints of the pollinator trail were also completed and installed at both project sites.

Other activities included:

Pollinator animation workshops for local children
A new trail map, information boards and QR codes on pollinators
A living roof on the Roundhouse and living flower walls at the Heart of BS13 kitchen and Climate Action Hub
24 one-day planting workshops involving numerous community members
A spring fair featuring a pollinator safari trail and various hands-on activities.
Workshops on composting and the value of pollinators

Overall, the project has helped boost support for Heart of BS13 from local businesses who wanted to invest in nature recovery in Hartcliffe and from national media coverage. Stories ran by BBC helped secure additional funding to expand the youth workshops and install a permanent welding workshop at Heart of BS13.

Jenny’s story

One notable impact of the project has been the personal and professional growth of Jenny Liggett, Heart of BS13’s compost lead. Throughout the initiative, Jenny has deepened her understanding of pollinators, showing a remarkable transformation in both knowledge and confidence. She has actively contributed to the project and taken on leadership roles, including conducting tours and engaging with school groups.

Jenny’s dedication to environmental conservation has also attracted media attention, with outlets such as BBC News and Bristol 247 featuring stories about her journey. From starting as a local resident volunteering during the pandemic to securing a green job, Jenny’s experience highlights the positive outcomes of community engagement and environmental efforts.

The funding provided by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority has been crucial in creating opportunities for individuals like Jenny to thrive. Her story exemplifies the transformative impact of such initiatives, showing how investment in community projects can lead to meaningful personal and professional development.

Jenny’s journey has also inspired many volunteers on the horticulture team, several of whom have now pursued their own paths toward environmental careers. Many have enrolled in City and Guilds courses, hoping to follow in Jenny’s footsteps and secure green jobs.

This ripple effect demonstrates the broader impact of the project, benefiting not only those directly involved but also the wider community. It highlights the importance of investing in initiatives that support the environment while empowering individuals and driving positive change.

Read more about Jenny on BBC News