Central Cambridge is set to gain two new native wildflower meadow areas, thanks to a collaboration between Cambridge City Council and King’s College Cambridge. Traditional methods, including the use of heavy horses, are being employed to prepare the sites near the University Arms Hotel on Parker’s Piece.
On Wednesday 14 October, heavy horses will transport 30 bales of green hay from an established meadow in front of King’s College Chapel. This hay will be used at Parker’s Piece to supplement the same mix of local wildflower seeds that proved successful in creating the King’s College meadow.
The King’s College meadow has demonstrated resilience, remaining green through this year’s extreme heat and drought until its hay was cut in August. It has become a haven for pollinating insects and other species, contrasting with many other lawns across the city. It is hoped that the new meadow at Parker’s Piece will similarly flourish, potentially supporting species such as orchids and native wildflowers.
This initiative is part of the council's broader efforts to enhance biodiversity in the city's open spaces, aligning with its Biodiversity Strategy. The mature Parker’s Piece meadow is intended to become part of an interconnected network of habitats across the city and beyond, contributing to the wider Cambridge Nature Network.
The project's timetable includes mechanical removal of turf and seed bed creation between 5-7 October. Heavy horses will undertake traditional ground preparation on 12 October, followed by the hay transport on 14 October.
“"It has been a privilege to work with King’s College on this project and I’m really looking forward to what should be a spectacular sight of heavy horses making their way through the city centre to help with the work establishing a new meadow on one of our most beloved open spaces."
“"This is just one of the many projects which form part of the city council’s Biodiversity Strategy for the city – which aims to reverse biodiversity decline, strengthen ecological resilience, and embed nature at the heart of our communities— to bring about environmental, social, and health benefits long into the future."
