Appendix 2 - Consultation Summary
Perth and Kinross Council · 31 May 2023
Back to Climate Change and Sustainability Committee — 31 May 2023 and its agenda
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Ward 1 Errol Park Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime PER0057 Ward 1 Naturalised boundaries will help provide corridors for wildlife No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. 3 different plant species and some butterflies were present during the inspection Generally it's a good idea. The strips in the park are quite small and so a bit fiddly. "Errol Park" is not a good name for the public park in Errol because "Errol Park" is the name of the house and its policies. I suggest "Errol Recreation Park" as an alternative. It's important to cut the grass once and late at the end of the season (to avoid shrubby growth). I asked and asked for the bigger strip at the bottom of Elm Street to be given a late cut and it wasn't. That ought to be remedied in late summer/autumn of 2022. some small tress were planted last year and they have bee hidden by the grass Errol is the nearest town to where I live. I am very pleased that some 'wilding' is planned but am hoping this does not just consist of reducing grass cutting but will include some planting of hedges or shrubs around the edge of the park The park is large and I agree that the areas around the edge by the hedges would be good to be allowed to be left for wildlife as they are not often used by the park's visitors. My local park. Because the school backs onto it, the kids will be able to visit it, helping with their education and helping them to appreciate the need for biodiversity. There is also a large grasses area round the corner in Elm Street which is now left uncut. This is good but is really just grass and nothing else. It really needs some proper planting and grass control. Appendix 2
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8 1 1 0 2 4 6 8 10 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagreeNumber of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 5 4 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 9 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site? I am curious about the site to the East of the park which is coloured blue. Is this managed by PKC? If so, it could do with a little help to make it useable for walking through - maybe some mown paths? the surface is very rough as it was spoil from the house building so includes bricks etc, which makes it difficult to walk over. There is a serious litter problem in the park. Maybe some conversation with the primary school might help with this. Sadly it is mostly children, who, while enjoying the park have to eat and drink highly packaged food at all times, and leave all the packaging where they happen to be. I genuinely think they believe it creates council jobs to tidy up after them. Errol Park is in the middle of the countryside. We don't need a 100m strip of weeds to encourage insects. It also makes it very difficult for dog owners to pick up waste. This is clearly not about biodiversity and all about cost. It wouldn't have been so bad if it was sown with wildflower seeds, but it just looks really bad. It does however serve as a reminder that although we live in a major economy, no corners will be cut when it comes to saving a penny at the taxpayers expense. It’s a large site in the heart of the village and next to the school so perfect for teaching the kids to appreciate the wildlife. Good to see other areas in the locale left to grow wild too.
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1 2 1 0 1 2 3 Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 2 1 1 0 1 2 3 Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 0 1 2 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site? Invergowrie Park Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime PIV0026 Ward 1 Wildflower meadows not just no cutting No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. Its the right thing to do to help with biodiversity. over 10 different plant species present I am strongly in favour of having more wild areas to support wildlife, including wild flowers, insects and birds. I live in Invergowrie and regularly walk in the park and would be very happy to see this. Increased number of bees, butterflies and other insects Park is neat, tidy and pleasant. There are lots of natural sites in this area- the Bay, Crop Research. The park is not that big and in my experience leaving areas just end up messy and full of litter . Also seems like a conventional excuse to cut costs Plant species present - Daisies, buttercups, clover, wild poppies, forget me nots, cowslip Ward 2
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Alyth Market Muir Plot Code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime EAL0120 Ward 2 18 different species of plants present. Bees, butterflies, and birds all present during inspection The areas are such that the grass cutting correctly and as planned will be difficult. At present the area already left for wildlife is used by owners’ dogs to carry out their business. Because Alyth never sees the Dog Warden or if he or she is here no actions are taken. This will continue and you will find the locals will strim the new areas. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. Species of plants present - common yarrow, lesser knapweed, dandelion, clover, ragwort, velvet grass, curly dock, buttercup, common selfheal, lesser stitchwort, bluebell bellflower, Field Woodrush, Cuckoo Flower, Slender Speedwell, Daisy, Autumn Hawkbit, Black Knapwood, lesser spearwort The park has perfect banks ideal for snowdrop and crocuses which could also be kept neat and tidy throughout the year, perhaps mowing once per month to let the self-heal, daisies, violets and clover to flower – a real pollinator stepping stone… and then cut short from late summer onwards to look good over the winter. The areas between the mature trees would look far nicer with long grass swaying underneath them, so long as this was cut again at the end of the year so as to keep down the docks and thistles which will most likely try to take over. If it's not cut at least once per year it will look neglected. There are little wooden bollards along Meigle Road which the lichens and mosses have come to live in, these should be retained to house the little beasts who have made their homes there too. Also, at the Meigle Roadside, the existing trees could be supplemented by some smaller fruit trees such as Crab Apples and Rowans to fill the gaps. Finally, the open space here is so large that an avenue of fruit trees (perhaps Pear, Plum and Apple?) down the middle of the park? Or even a row of these following
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close to the edge of the proposed trial areas at the South or East? I agree with the proposal for the south and east end of the muir to be left wild. The areas near the road need a re-think, unless they are going to be made into wildflower areas and not just left as rough grass. It's marshy ground which only occasionally gets used by dog walkers. It would be best to let it revert to a more natural state. I have lived for many years beside the ‘common’ as we know it (market muir as you know it). My children have played there, ridden their bikes, scooters, skied, sledged on, flown planes etc there. It is an area where many families enjoy an open space throughout all the seasons. For that we need the whole area to be mown. If it isn’t the dog walkers (of which I am one) would perhaps think it was an overgrown field and not pick up their dog’s mess. People would not come down to have picnics or play football. Groups would not use it to play games. The local guide and brownie units particularly enjoy it on a summers evening. We love this area just the way it is. It may not contribute to anything ecologically but socially it is a fabulous area for families and it would be a shame to spoil that. I think this site is perfect for naturalising for nature. It's naturally boggy. There are a host of birds (e.g., owls, sparrow hawk and buzzards) in the area along with red squirrels and hedgehogs. Frogs and toads are in the area but not sure if on the muir. Failing to cut grass at roadside will present an unkempt, unwelcoming look / eyesore to all entering and leaving the town. This area is used by dog walkers and to exercise dogs; more likely that uncut areas will be subject to fouling / not picked up by dog owners.
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We don’t need wild areas! Look around, we sit in the middle of the countryside. What we need are safe areas for children to play, for families to meet for a chat, and for open space for pets. We don’t need wild areas where no one goes because of hidden litter and poo. Please, just cut the grass The more areas for wildlife, the better! I have recently moved into cemetery lodge across the road and the number of birds and wildlife that come to my garden is amazing, I have even seen a red squirrel. I think the road leading to the cemetery could also benefit from being left to naturalise in the future; the trees, hedges and shrubs all provide valuable places for the wildlife live. Having a perfectly mowed green space may appeal to some, but it is our job to protect our local, native wildlife. Plus, beautiful long grasses and lovely wild flowers are so much more pleasing to see! This area gives the visitors their first view of the town when entering from the west. This plan will make the area look scruffy. It will have little impact on the variety of creatures inhabiting the space. Maybe there would be benefit in wilding all the ornamental beds baskets etc in Perth city. Certainly, be loads of objections to that proposal. Long grass around the perimeter will totally spoil the appearance from incoming roads. I suggest a broad area of uncut grass along the east and south sides but keep cutting to the edge along the west and north sides.
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Most people tend to walk around the edge of the Muir, only a few walks across so we feel the edges should be cut and the centre left unmowed. Not sure but I think the proposal might have been the other way round, i.e. leaving the grass long around the perimeter. 4 8 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site? 5 4 3 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 5 3 1 3 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change?
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Alyth Diamond Jubilee Plot Code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime EAL0114 Ward 2 12 species of plants present - Poppy, thistle, velvet grass, dandelion, cornflower, lesser stitchwort, curly dock, common lambsquarters, The area highlighted at the bottom of the park more or less closes the bottom entrance off at springbank road ( right in the corner) This is an entrance used by kids from the scheme and family’s to get to the park safely. If this area isn’t mowed or maintained it’s going to end up full of dog mess and the family’s won’t managed to get through to the park this way, a way which has been used for more than 30 years. The new path that’s being installed will be in the middle of this making the new path a waste of time of it’s surrounded in weeds and wild flowers. The bottom entrance at springbank with the double gates looks to be effected which again is access and used in the event of a flood. Looks very tight for getting vehicles in when events etc on. Again the new path comes through there. Why not use a space that’s not right at people windows and an area that isn’t used everyday by people. Make the area smaller or change the location to the area at mill street park away from the park where there is nobody there. No houses to worry about. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise.
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I just think cutting off the access and making it a dog mess area which it will become as it’s happened elsewhere The area planned for a “no-mow” area to the bottom of the Diamond Jubilee Park will close off a well used access route for locals. The area is well used by adults for walking and massively used by kids (especially from Springbank Road area). I have read Alyth Community Councils minutes from their latest meeting where the chairman agrees with the “no-mow” area and has also proposed fencing off the area….I can’t disagree strongly enough with this. If this area is to be taken away from locals to use for leisure and play then at least retain the historical link giving the people and kids access to the park. Fencing this area off will only emphasise a “wasteland” look It will just look a mess. It’s an excuse to stop the council cutting the grass. As for fencing it off which has been muted this would stop people from Springbank accessing the park from the bottom. It’s an area where the children from Springbank can play in site of their homes. Alyth is a country town. We are surrounded by fields, woods, hills and all are full of wildlife!! We don’t need our public spaces to look the same! Keep them tidy!! Alyth is being taken over by middle class eco warriors who do not take the views of those who were born and brought up here for generations. This town has become their play thing for all their little projects.
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the jubilee park is alongside fields, within ¼ mile of countryside. it's not exactly urban. in fact P&K is predominantly a rural county, there is no lack of open countryside. leaving what was maintained parkland for wildlife is unnecessary. this area will rapidly become a foul dog toilet as there are many lazy dog owners looking for an excuse to not 'pick up' long grass will be enough of an excuse. It’s a huge green space that could incorporate all its current facilities/uses (football pitch, play park, place to walk your dog as well as wild flowers. Anyway green stretches of mowed field are dull landscapes - bringing in a variety of planting will improve it and obviously be beneficial to wildlife The park is loosing enough space as it is with the path being put in now you have made essentially a litter tray for dogs. People will not venture into it to pick it up. And to top it all of it will look awful. It’s such a small space but will make the park look untidy and unkept. Council should focus more on giving children in the area a safe place to play than leaving it as an eyesore.
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This is just budget cuts, the area you're proposing to rewild is tiny and has multiple paths and access points through it. Not mowing it will just result in rubbish and dog poo building up and it is going to look absolutely atrocious especially given the Jubile Park disabled friendly pathway underway. Alyth will have a lovely new path for prams, bikes and wheel chairs and then a "wild" area full of rubbish to surround it. The bottom of Jubilee Park needs maintaining not abandoning. The Wall is falling down and is a danger to young children who frequently climb it to get into the fields. The trees that flank one side are coming down with every storm and there is so much broken glass it's not safe to play or walk dogs there anymore. I'm really hopeful the council will reconsider this neglectful approach and actually look after the Park instead. The park is a great space that needs to utilised for the kids surely there could be a “nature spot” else where. Young people in the area have nothing to do. It’s a rural town with plenty of space for nature. A outdoor gym or skate park would be better use for said space. Once the controversial path is built it only really leaves rooms for the football pitch. Alyth also lacks parking places. And also it’s not like you are planting wild flowers it’s just going to look awful.
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I live next to diamond jubilee on springbank and as predicted the now no longer cut “wildlife” park is only harbouring life for flies and maggots! As predicted the already huge problem in the town of people not picking up fog waste is now another problem in this area of long grass. My son and I both trod on dog faeces on countless times not to mention my eight year old going after his foot ball into the grass and it getting covered which he had to bring home to have washes with bare hands. We are surrounded in countryside and really such a small area really is only seen as sheer laziness by the community on the councils part to cut Back the limited amount of jobs they already do. Our town is struggling with dog waste and litter and it’s just another excuse for lazy Owners to not bother their backside letting everyone else suffer. It’s hard from a bin so no additional money thrown at bins will make any difference. That area of the park has never been a “ bog” as they have expressed, the locals of that area have used that as an entry point to the park for generations, the sole reason to leave this area a “no mow” area is simply because the council Cannot be bothered to cut it, it’s hard enough to get them to cut the area they are supposed to ie, the football pitches and parks
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This is a public access for all (especially older folks, children and dog walkers). This proposal will make it much harder for some people to access the park and will be inviting people not to pick up their dog mess. Personally my grandad uses a walker and accesses the park from this area, he would not be able to access the park anymore as the other entrances are too far away for him to access. Children need space and safe areas to play if the grass is left to grow long it will cause dog fouling to get out of control its bad enough as it is . Dog dirt is dangerous to children . The surrounding area of the park is very much green areas even with one of the golf courses less area But we have three within a very short distance of the park .. with the new walkway around the park we do not need more areas where dog owners can use as dog toilet .. if the park can be used again for annual show ..need as a whole area of park .. I disagree strongly against this it has always been there for children to play in play football and games walk through the park with your dog springbank Road is getting cut off from the park as children we could walk from the bottom of the park to the top now that is getting taken away from us due to this situation of people wanting to leave it for nature and putting a path in we have more issues in alyth that should be taken care of first like flooding instead of using all the money for the park
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Overgrown grass next to people's homes will attract vermin, it will look a mess, people use that part of the park have done for years their is better things you could use the money on than this We are in the country. No need to worry about wildlife. It's just an excuse to leave the place in a worse mess than it is. I don't know how many times Alyth volunteers have been out cleaning the place up. This is not the right site. Usage of this park is set to improve with the new path. Allowing such a large section to become overgrown and unkempt will adversely affect its usability and attractiveness. I think it's important to keep this park as neat, tidy and pretty as possible to help ensure the community are proud of it and want to help keep it that way. Thanks! The park is for kids playing and local football team. We have plenty countryside round about us. A skate park should be placed in park for the young ones . We seem to be going back the way. The park is a green space enjoyed by many, by blocking off this area , it is stopping people enjoying the park as a whole, blocking off a route from springbank road which has been used for years. It sounds like this is an excuse to save money as opposed to anything else
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Why do we need any more wildlife areas in Alyth, we are surrounded by country side, the area in the park to be left to go wild,why, it joins on to fields, hedge rows, walls basically from here to Kirriemuir, I understand there are groups who would like to turn Alyth into something like lord of the rings landscape but just walk 10min in any direction of the centre and you have it and leave the town the way it has always been managed, as a rural town…if there is land that becomes unmanageable in the town then why don’t you create areas for the kids,, example, skate park, hard ground area for five aside/basket ball, other towns have these areas. It allows the potential for wild grasses etc to establish. Though it would be even better if the top soil were removed then wild flowers, lichen, fungi etc would appear given time. An alternative would be to seed the area with Yellow Rattle to knock back the more dominant grasses. We live in a village that is short on areas for kids to play but big on wildlife all around. This is not needed at all, there's a strong feeling in the village that it's being g forced upon us Cutting off a big part of the park where kids play Lazy dog Walker just use it for there dog to poo in and the park is bad enough with that!
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The trial area significantly cuts into recreation space. Visually it looks very poor, and currently seems to serve as a dog toilet. Given Alyth is surrounded by green spaces this seems to be of no real benefit to the town, or the environment. It is unsightly and unnecessary. I have walked my dog through here for 9 years and have no issues with the wildlife area.. or new proposal for path .. and leave it fenced or unfenced, whichever makes most sense to the location . I believe a wildflower area in any area is a good thing, rural or urban. A few trees too ? We need better management of dog owners before this happens. Alyth is already suffering from irresponsible dog owners who don't pick up dog mess. I think the wild areas would be full of dog poo and would spoil the park even more than it already does! With the introduction of the path around the park, there will be more dog walkers using it. I disagree with this site being used at it will close off a well used right of way path into the Jubilee Park, the area in question is a mess with dogs fouling as it is and I'm sure it could put to better use to benefit the younger generation of Alyth with a skate park or somewhere that they can use and not an overgrown area that will encourage more dog fouling
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The space is a large park used by the public for walking, football, local scout groups and other sports. A large area is to be used which covers a big part of the park. I love the idea of having a wildlife free growing area but this could be a strip beside the boundary walls or trees rather than in the middle of the park. This would allow everyone to still use it without worrying if dogs have used it and also walking through disturbing nature. My honest opinion is i am all for wildlife and fully support the need to have greenspace but in the proper settings, we live in the countryside there is plenty green space areas outwith this area that would benefit the wildlife better not in a park where kids want to play football, run around etc. More money needs spent on our younger generation, they don't have much in this area and now you want to take away the bit ground that is their park for wildlife. This park is currently undergoing the development of a path to benefit all who visit. The part of the park you wish to leave for wildlife will just encourage dog walkers to leave their dog mess behind. This will leave many, especially children who use the park, to walk, run or fall into the dog mess. (I am a dog owner but very aware of many who don't pick up their dog's mess.) I do feel that the new path will also lose it's purpose and the park will not be used in full to benefit all. Also, Alyth has plenty of grassland, fields, open space and gardens which encourage wildlife throughout the year, we do not need long grass in the park to do this! I strongly appeal to you to continue to maintain this area of the park. Thank you.
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2 11 9 12 0 5 10 15 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 5 2 5 5 12 0 5 10 15 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 5 16 0 5 10 15 20 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site? You are denying access to the park at the bottom corner which has been utilised by residents for many, many years. Many residents are unable to travel the extra distance to walk dogs, exercise etc.
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Guildtown Park Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime EGN0154 Ward 2 3 different species of plants present - velvet grass, buttercup, clover I am in favour of the measures for purposes of biodiversity, reducing emissions and saving the council funds post COVID. Sadly many residents here are exremely concermed about the effect on ticks on themselves and their pets and went out and cut the no-mow area last summer themselves so a lot of community engagement and education is required to make it work. Perhaps fencing off some areas of long grass to prevent dog access whilst still allowing wildife eg hedgehog highways would help. Planting native trees between the burn and the astroturf, particularly on the raised area would further improve biodiversity and also help dampen noise. Also planting to restore the footpath from the park to the millenium bridge after the building works. I would like to see tiny forests implemented. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. I support the proposals in principle but PKC should note that there are additional biodiversity areas that have been established by the Community with support and funding by the PKC Community GreenSpace Team. I have shown these areas in green hatching on the upoaded file. Please note the following comments to this : 1. I have shown a momn path through one existing area to allow school pupils direct access across the park to the existing path which runs alongside the Astroturf. This form part of a safe route to school (short cut) which the children like to use. Children are now dropped off at the Village Hall Car Park rather than outside the school. They then walk across the park.
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2. The strip area to the South of the Playpark is not appropriate for a wild area as it is too small to be meaningful and will just look untidy. 3. There does not seem to be any of the 'new' areas marked in dark green and being managed as a meadow ie cut once a year. Could this be reconsidered > Plans look good. I would exclude the area of long grass (long strip) adjacent to the Community football pitch and beside playpark. This area is not necessary for overall benefit of the biodiversity aims I suspect will attract negative comments due to dog fouling in proximity to the pitch. There are a numbers of areas that have already been established in the PKC owned area of the park including a wildlife hedge and areas of fruit trees and rewilding grass. These were established over 10 years ago as part of a Community initiative with Guildtown Primary School. These should be identified in the project and management plan to ensure the biodiversity benefits are recognised and used as educational and promotional tools., the grass no mow areas in the park are not conducive to bees etc, the areas are a mess and full of dog poo and rubbish- cans, bottles, rubbish!!. Several of us use our time occasionally to go litter/etc picking. Unfortunately even when people watch there dog when tramping in the area it is still difficult to find poo , or successfully pick it all up as it becomes intwined with king grasses. I have always said that wild flower and pollinator areas are the way to go for wildlife and especially bees. We have lots of fabulous gardens in the village , with many homes having there own bee hives. So we are not short of bees , butterflies etc. But more is always good. I have asked many times to clear these no mow areas , clear the ground and plant/ spread seed to make beautiful wildflower beds. I have read, watched ,listened to experts in this field to help my own development . This actually takes my memory back to the fantastic parks the Victorian’s designed and actually got right, they where both spectacular to enjoy and had immense wildlife in. Sadly very few left.
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4 0 1 2 3 4 5 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 2 1 1 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 3 1 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site?
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Kinrossie Recreation Ground Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Current Maintenance Regime EBU0134 Ward 2 Plant species present - velvet grass, ragwort, common yarrow, bitter dock, wild parsnip, oxe-eye daisy, clover, buttercup No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. No voting recorded Increased number of insects
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Larghan Park Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime ECA006 8 Ward 2 35 different species of grass present This site is local to me. I think the plans are a really good idea. Cut and lift once a year 3 different species of butterflies, bees and birds present Biodiversity is important to me. Increased wildlife I think that leaving the periphery to wildlife and managing part of the park will give a good balance allowing space for children to play and wildlife to flourish. Most of the area chosen for management are logically the outer areas of grass, some of these areas are sloping or uneven and some a little damp. The damp areas may be suitable for managing into a stumpery which would be great for wildlife, naturalise ferns and or flag iris. Species of plants include - Buttercup, velvet grass, creeping buttercup, common yarrow, ragwort, lesser knapweed, ox eye daisy, field scabious, oregano, white campion, cow vetch, red campion, vipers buglosses, hogweed,Dandelio n, daisy, campion, yarrow, bluebells, There is no consistency in this approach. Why are the verges of roads being cut when other authorities are saving costs and disruption to traffic by leaving them to grow and preserve the wildflowers and fauna that this policy is designed to do. Wild areas within public spaces restrict the area and make it impossible to find and pick up dog poo. Dandelions are seeding as never before, spreading these into private gardens. Protect orchids and wild flowers by all means but not weed varieties. There are sites in Blairgowrie that are not listed here where the same would apply. The long grass restricts available area for recreation for pets & children and takes longer to dry out after rain.
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vetch, speedwell, Self heal, birds foot trefoil, clover, stitchwort, iris, grasses, Tansy, scabious, knapweed, bird’s foot trefoil, hawkbit, harebell,Willow herb, scabious, knapweed, I agree with the aims of this exercise. Larghan Park would be perfect for increased biodiversity - especially to offset the monoculture agriculture of the surrounding area. My primary concern hwever is with the area left to naturalise. From experience, I know this will in a short space of time (2-3 years) become dominated by stands of dock, creeping thistle, ragwort etc. I appreciate that these species in particular have significant biodiversity benefit but at the risk of alienating local people I would like to see these pernicious 'weeds' - if you want to refer to them as such - carefully monitored and managed. Organising local bioblitzes, or other citizen science surveys would be a great way to bring people along on this journey. People are afraid of change - especially when they see change as something to limit their freedoms. I worry that there is little engagement with these people in the online sphere, I know the council has traditionally eschewed such a format, but this is how people communicate and agitate these days. Oh, and the two shades of green on the maps are too difficult to differentiate, especially when there is only one per map. Not the best for colour blind folk.
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Although I agree with some areas of the park being left for wildlife, around the edge of the main grass area but being mindful of the iconic trees which have been planted.I do not agree that part of this should form the main body of the grass area around where the cricket pitch is. The are now fewer people walking around the full circle of the park as they do not like the long grass and for those who have dogs they do not want their dogs to go in this area as it would be impossible to clear up after them, they also are concerned re an increase in ticks in the area . There is a concern with regards to children going into this area if there is dogs have not been cleared up after. There has recently been an encampment in the park by travelling people and human waste was left in the long grass areas. There are many visitors to the park from far and wide who have expressed their displeasure to local residents as to how the park is now looking. This is a play park for families, The local pride of place group try to keep on top of the flower beds, willow, litter. They have had the help of local kids to paint butterfly stones, plant trees, put up information boards, which you can’t get to, unless you want very wet feet. They built a lover seat, again get wet feet to get to it. The snowdrop heart has been taken over by long grass. Older people walked to the coop seat at the top of the park, used to then walk down the middle, long grass and dare say dog poo in the way now. People got annoyed at the dog poo when the grass was cut, what is it like now. POP cleared the broom from the Side of the wood, now it is left wild. There are areas that can be left wide, but NOT the old cricket pitch area. I have emailed the councillors regarding this, but to date no reply. Just not interested? The park is just a large dogs poo place it is a disgrace . We had a lovely park after cricket stopped the children played up there. Then travellers come in leave all the rubbish used wood where school have outside classroom t As a toilet the wildlife flowers just look like weeds. We have very little where children can play as other park is just as bad.
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I like the idea of more wildlife-friendly land, with managed access (path going through the area) and encouraging folk to observe and learn about wildlife. I cannot make any sense of just what is happening in Larghan Park because there is no detail given. Just saying leave areas of grass uncut until September is telling me nothing. What areas of grass???? I agree with the principal of leaving areas of grass uncut to help to increase the number of insects but not the entire park. Trying to navigate the maps is a nightmare and I just gave up. Regarding the lack of grass cutting at the Eastern edge of Larghan Park, evidence so far highlights the detrimental effects on the local area and community. This includes: A shift in the habits of the existing birds. Since the grass has not been cut there are now no Oyster Catchers or Pied Wagtails. They had been fequently seen in this area. Dogs, if left to run free, were doing their business in this area and owners did not venture in to remove any waste. Regular users of Larghan Park who previously would walk and exercise from one end of the park and return on the grass were prevented from doing so. If walking around the path and stopping for a break at the Eastern end, the previously beautiful view had changed to seeing a field of grass. Families in caravans came and parked on the edge of the uncut grass, there is evidence of fires, which ultimately is a fire hazard. They then dumped garden waste in the long grass and behind the tree line, also in the grass which had been allowed to grow. On leaving, black bags of waste were left in the grass. It was impossible to use or get access to the cricket strip (discrimatory as the football areas were cut).
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0 2 4 6 8 10 Agree Disagree Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site? There was no evidence of an increase in wildlife or flowers in this area. It is a mess! However, leaving the grass uncut at the side of the lower path (along from the tennis courts) did result in some wild flowers appearing but these were often dwarfed by the larger unwelcomed weeds. The lack of cutting also meant that the bee trail path was overgrown and not inviting for families to use. The park is no longer an inviting walk. I go less 8 3 1 2 0 2 4 6 8 10 Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 7 3 4 0 2 4 6 8 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change?
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Goshen Park Scone Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime PSC0018 Ward 2 2 different plant species present It’s near our house. Proposal makes sense. It’s beside trees No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. 1 0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 1.2 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site?
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Scone Park Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime PSC006 7 Ward 2 12 different plant species present - Velvet grass , daisy ,buttercup ,Common selfheal Common starwort,white clover,Dandelio n, nettle, thistle, clover, hawkweed, plantain This is a very well used park and next to the school so is a vital part of village/community life. Important to create wild areas for nature to show people that this is good for the planet and this no mow practice is something to be encouraged in as many places as possible. Hopefully notices can be erected to explain the benefits of this practice to park users. Could more areas be left to grow in the park rather than just edges ? Mown paths through these areas give children interesting places to play. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. Increased number of insects, birds, bees and butterflies Unkempt areas will look untidy. They will become areas full of litter and dog poo and no longer areas where children can walk or play. It is a historical park given to Scone as a park. It is just an excuse for the council to even less. If were not so intent in building over woodland would not be the need to create ‘ wild life parks’ except to save mobey I think encouraging further biodiversity is a very good idea. I introduced a little no-mow area and a tiny pond in my own small garden near this park last year and saw an increase in insect and amphibian life. I have seen red squirrels, frogs and toads in my garden. I strongly believe that anything
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which will improve the habitats of wildlife in an urban area is a good idea. This will also provide more interest for children exploring in the park. The plans could go much further in terms of ambition and scope. But I suppose a Trial period is better than no change. Ideal site for the proposal Lots of wildlife live here. Mainly ducks, swans, moorhens, gulls, and woodland birds too. Also it’s a major gathering place for frogs and toads in April. Any help for them with more nature areas has got to be good. There can be littering and teenage behaviour here, so if the Nature Areas are obvious, it would help. At the moment, the birds and animals have no privately designated space, so people are always encroaching on their living space. Wildlife is so important to humans and needs to be cherished and helped. Many people are starting to grow wildflowers in their gardens and if these proposals are taken forward, it may encourage more to do the same. It will be good to see the park looking less "man-managed" and allowed to go back to nature somewhat. We really need to focus on improving biodiversity when ever we can. Further some of the weed killers in common use are also hazardous to human health. It's important for the environment Too many large areas left unlooked after, grass now long and straggely, traps litter, cans and discarded food, responsible dog owners unable to find droppings to pick up,. Areas should be prepared and sown with wild flowers to encourage wildlife ie butterflies, moths would also enhance the beauty of the park. Area around pond was cleared several years ago and then left, now a mass of weeds, nettles, thistles and giant hogweed.
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11 2 1 1 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 9 2 2 1 1 0 2 4 6 8 10 Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 11 4 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site? Would it not have been better for the Council to wait until after the implementation of the empty bottle /can scheme. I have visited most of the areas concerned and found them to be full of litter and dog waste. I don't know about the south inch car park but in its present state I am embarrassed to be a resident of Perth. Perth is looking like a tip at the moment and it would be better if the large amounts of litter which are now lying in all the uncut grass was cleared up. goodness knows what the tourists think passing along the likes of Glenearn Road. I don't mind the long grass but what an amount of rubbish lying in it all.
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Wolfhill Common Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime EWH015 8 Ward 2 The playground is hardly ever used. It would be nice to return the area more to wildlife. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. 7 different species of plants present - Velvet grass, lesser stitchwort, autumn hawkbit, bitter dock, common selfheal, hogweed, lesser knapweed, Whilst increasing areas of ground for wildlife is a laudable plan, it seems to me that it is could also be considered a smokescreen for cutting council costs. There are significant margins of both areas of village green in Wolfhill which haven't seen a mower in years, where brambles and birdlife already flourish. To reduce the areas of mown grass further, will encourage more irresponsible dog walkers to leave their dogs poo "to fertilise" these wild spaces. We already have a considerable dog poo problem in our village. More long grass will only exacerbate the problem. I can understand the desire to green up urban spaces, but Wolfhill is a country hamlet, surrounded by green lanes and field. The wildlife round here is doing fine by itself. How difficult would it be to continue mowing as before and allow the children of the village a generous, safe and clean space to play and the older residents to enjoy a comfortable stroll on the village green they have known for years. I've yet to speak to a village resident who supports this plan. They may not comment as I have done, but do not discount their dissatisfaction with this I'll thought put plan.
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We are in the country with plenty of wonderful green countryside and wild flowers . We do not need the park to be covered in WEEDS And long grass going to seed! Where can children play without being at risk of insect and ticks or tripping in the long weedy grass.The single track roads leading into the village are now so overgrown with weeds that it is unsafe to walk as there is nowhere to stand with dogs/children if a car passes! ( we have no pavements ) Also difficult in a car when turning out the village to see if Its safe to turn onto other road. Just nonsense, cost cutting excercise leading to everywhere looking unkempt and untidy. I agree with the overall aims of the trial, however what we have at Wolfhill common is a disgusting mess of an area that was always tidy. If it is going to be a managed trial, then surely some wild flower seed could be scattered to put a bit of colour into it rather than left to grow completely wild. We also have a lot of dogs in the village and the wild areas may become dog toilets as it it will not be so easy to spot where a dog has made a mess. Some irresponsible dog owners do not even pick up when the mess is on short grass. There is huge potential to make a difference to the biodiversity of Wolfhill by changing management on the common. Unfortunately the grass cutter cuts back an extra bit every time he is there so there's only a small wild area left. Putting in native wildflower plugs & seeing how they fare in a small area would be a good addition.
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The common is an overgrown mess of dockens and weeds. There is no biodiversity! All it looks like is that Perth council does not want to respect the nice place we live in. It is rapidly becoming a dog toilet and horrible for people living nearby to look out on. The common belongs to the people of Wolfhill not to Perth council! Glad to see positive action to mitigate biodiversity loss! 4 3 0 1 2 3 4 5 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site? 3 1 1 1 1 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 3 1 2 1 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change?
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Ward 3 Carsie Blackloch Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime EBL0165 Ward 3 Increase in bees, butterflies and other wildlife 10+ species of plants also present Many dog walkers in the area and worried about increased ticks in the area given the number of deer also in the area No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. It’s important to do as much as possible to increase and look after wild life and wild areas . Different species of grass present - Timothy grass, slender speedwell, velvet grass, lesser stitchwort, clover, buttercup, common yarrow, dandelion, oyeseye daisy, ragwort, Will prevent access to walk beside loch. Also will not be vey attractive to residents who have to live next to this area of ground or overlook it from their houses. Don’t want grass encroaching into private garden. Elderly people use this piece of ground as a meeting place after dog walking or just out themselves to chat to passers by. Whiteloch Ave is a busy road so this area offers people an element of safety to meet . People with Invalidity Scooters also use it as it is the only area of green space accessible to them. Think there is enough woodland surrounding this area, plus the Golf Course and private gardens for nature to flourish. Give every house in Carsie a packet of seeds to plant instead.
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This area at Carsie is highly visible to residents and visitors to the Carsie community. It currently looks very welcoming as it is being reasonably maintained. It also leads into the adjoining wood and loch which is extensively used by many visitors, particularly dog walkers. Unfortunately, many of them do not lift their dog mess as they regard it as being unnecessary in the rural environment. Also, some are using it as a dumping area for rubbish. If the grass is left uncut, this abuse of the area will extend towards the houses, it will become unsightly, full of dog poo and useless weeds which will seed and multiply. They are of no benefit whatsoever to the environment. It takes very little time to cut this area with your machinery (I know as I have watched it being done!) so the saving on emissions is negligible. Sorry but the people of Carsie deserve better than your proposal. Letting this go to unmanaged would make the area like waste ground and untidy to the detriment of the residents. We can guarantee in a couple of years time the land will then be categorised as waste ground and set up for development.
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I agree with ANYTHING that is going to help native fauna and flora. I am tired of seeings strimmed/mown verges; it isn't necessary. Some of the verges in Blairgowrie hold populations of orchids, if allowed to grow. The Carsie site is a 15-minute walk from sizable populations of tufted loosestrife, creeping lady's tresses and coralroot orchids: all nationally rare; it is also 15 minutes walk to one of Perthshire's two twinflower colonies. People are not aware of these things, nor their importance. We regularly see hedgehogs and field mice in our garden, and we need to encourage this. I've lived in countries that have a greater biodiversity than this, encouraged through sensitive management, and the paucity of species here, by comparison, is alarming. Please, stop mowing ALL verges that don't need it for safety reasons. People that complain about untidiness don't deserve to be sharing a world with these species: nature is not tidy; it will not do what we want it to do, and the sooner we realize that, and educate our communities about it, the more chance we have of survival as a species. So, yes, please keep this site wild (already a number of buttercup and speedwell species are populating it), and please, PLEASE, keep ALL verges and green spaces like this managed for wildlife. the area is not used much for games etc and is good for wild flowers with just paths cut through for access to local walks. There are lots of natural areas in carsie. Having this right at the entrance makes the entrance into carsie look a mess There are already lots of areas where grass is allowed to grow to promote wildlife. Having the main area into Carsie is not required and looks unsightly.
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This area is used extensively by both local children and dog walkers. Not only does it look an absolute mess but the long grass reduces play opportunities for children, creates a health hazard as dog waste cannot be effectively cleaned up in the long grass and will not contribute to the wildlife population as there are ample wooded areas and fields around it. Loads of wild flowers which get mown down every year, shame to see as there are hives at the end of the road. Untidy mess encouraging tics and encourages people not picking up dog poo. Carsie has a garden for each and every house why on earth do you need to grow grass for the wildlife. Area used by walkers and children. Leaving this unattended creates issues of ticks. Agree less chemicals and more Wilding but not less cutting As a resident of Carsie its a blooming mess. Everyone sick of it we can't walk the dogs now they've never had so many ticks. I'm all for saving wildlife but this is an absolute mess. Badly needs cutting. Plenty food in wood for wildlife This is very unsightly, people aren’t picking up after their dogs. There is an increase in ticks on children and dogs - this is a cause for concern and risks people getting Lymes disease. Apart from area looking a total disgrace and unkempt,it is a heth and safety hazard.children walk through the area as do adults, dogs poo in the long grass and you cannot clean it up due to grass length. Also children used to play on.the area which was good for there well being and mental health. Total disgrace. The street is bad enough with the potholes etc and then you are now faced with the unsightly long unkept grass, not to mention the encouragement of ticks.
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Feel it's an eyesore although understand the reasoning for doing it, feel there are places that could be used instead. Put wild flowers in woodland areas for a trial. I have seen this done in other areas of Scotland and it seems to work well in terms of encouraging biodiversity. 7 6 1 1 6 0 2 4 6 8 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 6 1 1 11 2 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 7 14 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site?
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Rattray Common Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime Live locally. Good large area allowed to naturalise. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. ERA0002 Ward 3 9 different plant species present I agree with some of the areas marked on the map, but it seems that all the areas are marked as red passive managrment (i.e. Cost cutting by not mowing) rather than actual proactive wildlife management. This will result in the space looking over- grown and unkempt and is likely to encorage even more litter dumping - this is already an issue in Rattray Common Mainly grasses, docks and ragwort I would like to see much more extensive naturalisation and less mowing and no weedkilling chemicals. This applies to every Council greenspace, Rattray just happens to be the nearest to where I live. We live in a green belt.. No need to make the few decent areas into a mess. People leave dog mess etc in the longer grass. I think this is just a cost cutting exercise saving money on grass cutting. It just looks a mess when we already have lots of meadow area around us. Please cut the grass so kids can play there. Kids play in this area and the long grass is full of ticks. It also looks like a complete eyesore for visitors to the town. Makes the area look completely run down. It's not just the green marked areas that have been left to overgrow either. The whole town is overgrown and looking very unsightly, it really isn't a good image. Kids have played on the hill above the school football pitches for a hundred years. The size of area being used on Rattray common is a disgrace. Looking at the area specified on your maps it seems like this is not about biodiversity at all, it’s money saving plan. It all the areas that are the hardest/time consuming to cut!!!
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I disagree because it says the areas in blue are not part of the scheme. Maybe someone should tell the pkc groundcare team this. All of the blue areas are overgrown, Victoria Street path is barely passable without the risk of being stung! Rattray common playback is not being maintained, again a blue shaded area. Just an absolute joke. I'm all for increasing the wildlife habitat but not in dedicated children's play areas or paths and pavements. Sort it out please. This is a kids play area for local community and the school, has been for many years, kids play up and down the the hills of the common suing holiday season and weekends, you try to encourage your kids to go and play out doors and new kids again instead of being stuck on electronic but how can they do that when the council are slow taking everything away and neglecting the FREE PLAY that they can go and do due to the state of the main parks in Rattray and Blairgowrie. Even dog walking is a issue as dogs are catching ticks as well as kids. It’s not safe or hygienic. Blairgowrie and and Rattray is surrounded white green space and bio diversity that you don’t need to take kids playing areas away or local dog walking rotes. Yes it’s a good idea to some extent but please it’s juat became an eye sore especially for a town that’s a mainly a tourist attraction. If they see that mess then they want understand why and will give bad reviews. Please understand from someone who has stayed and played and trying to raise 3 kids for 34 years. Many locals have the same thoughts as I do and even resorts to social media and PKC to complain. Please find other things to do instead of this. It’s not working! It's right next to a school and by a main road and it looks awful and run down and left to be neglected. The Davies Park would be fine if there was more care and though put into what's going to actually improve the wildlife without causing major issues with dog mess and litter. While I am not against encouraging wildlife, I live in this area and I am disgusted by how untidy and bad this makes the common look. There is not one person I have spoken to in this area who disagrees with this. It is a total mess The untidiness is an absolute eyesore and embarrassing for the local community for anyone passing through
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I agree with some areas being left to manage themselves but in this case it appears to be the majority of the site. This area is used extensively by children to play in and the long grass is a breeding ground for ticks which can cause serious health problems. I think smaller areas out with the main paths would be better set aside for this. Scattering of meadow flower seeds might also have helped to get residents on side as the aesthetics would have been much better. We are surrounded by countryside , this particular area should to available for local people to enjoy. Reducing open spaces for local children to enjoy/ play on means that they have to travel to other open spaces to enjoy so takes away from the climate change argument! I strongly disagree due to the impact it can have on childrens health and animals as long uncut grass can prevent people from picking up dog poo and also ticks are known to live in long grass which can have a life threatening impact if not removed properly and carry a number of diseases which can make a child or adult or animal serious unwell Large open space ideal for naturalisation. A job of promotion needed to change attitudes of those who are used to closely mown grass. It looks dreadful. It makes Rattray look like an extremely depraved area. Children are unable to play at the park and common they way they can when it’s being looked after. It feels dirty and the flys etc are unbearable in this summer weather. It’s encouraging people not to pick up dog mess as it’s in the long grass. It’s an absolute mess. Very sad sight to see. The town looks rough and unkept I get that it's for biodiversity but surly not at the expense of how it looks for locals and children being safe to play. Area is covered in dog mess in the long grass. This is an eyesore! And many other areas in P & K.There is a huge safety issue with spread of disease, risk of fire. People unable to collect dog waste. Also, used needles could be dropped and children could potentially stand on them in the long grass. This is an area that should be used for families and children to play. There is miles of country side in rural Perthshire for insects to flourish.
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It makes the area look downgraded and unkempt. Children have played all over this park for years and are now coming home with tics or dog poo on their shoes or cut with broken glass. It is said RattrY is an underprivileged well the state of the common make it look very underprivileged. Never had a problem with insects being extinct. Just a cheap way of PKC trying to save money it’s an absolute joke some over privileged eco warrior sitting at a desk who doesn’t have to look at the mess every day It’s disgusting to see the state of the common. No thought whatsoever for kids wanting to enjoy their holidays. These kids had two years taken from them for a virus and now they can’t play safely on a play area. Sort it out The comman is an absolute disgrace. It was donated to the children of Rattray to play on, not for some green team to run trials. It needs cut down so the kids can enjoy their holidays. Some of these children are deprived and won’t see past the comman in their summer holidays. What about the dog mess that will now be in this long grass that children can’t see until it’s too late? Do these things matter? Would you be happy allowing your children to play within that? It’s looks atrocious, it’s also a fire hazard, children and animals getting ticks which can cause Lymes disease! I understand biodiversity but don’t think we need all these public places looking like this, there are fields that farmers set aside for the bees etc. the weeds growing all over the place in housing areas is a disgrace too, it’s really not our lovely wee town anymore, it’s an eyesore !!! This area is widely used by children and has been for a lot of years it is close to houses and the school and the area looks unsightly unkept and children, adults and dogs have been affected by insect bites and tics. There are plenty of other areas that can be used for this kind of trial which doesn’t have to be in play areas that will affect the health and well-being of people and animals alike my views are repeated for the davie park area also. Biodiversity is important but in the right areas there are lots of fields and open spaces in the area that would work better than using childrens play areas and communal areas that bring down all areas involved.
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This area is looking deprived now. It has not been set out or sign posted at all. There are alot of children in this area of rattray that use the common and unfortunately now they can't. Animals and human have had tick bites from walking past or through these areas. If you want to make specific areas to to help the wildlife map them out correctly and don't make it such an eyesore for us the residents. Wild growing can be so beautiful if managed well but unfortunately rattray common is not the appropriate place for this trial. Rattray common is an area where children who's families live in flats with no gardens can play safely people can have picnic etc there. Now it's an eyesore long uncut grass full of tics rubbish and dog poo, it's an embarrassment to the whole town, using the biodiversity thing is just an excuse to leave this arrangement mess.plesse sort it out. The long grass in this area is an absolute disgrace. This has always been an area for children to play in and they can no longer do this safely. Our children and their safety are more important than insects and wildlife. I have stayed in Rattray for 37yrs and have never seen it looking so unkept and uninviting what a shame for our bonny wee town. Think this trail has made blairgowrie as a whole look like a utter shit hole Unkempt and unloved. But this is no surprise as it has been neglected by pkc for years Making the place look like a dump and an eyesore. It's a school site and kids play area. Kids and dogs are rife with ticks. Rubbish has been dumped in longer thicker areas. Mice have been sighted at the school side of the common. I don't want to think of whatever else is in there. There's always been ONE rough wild area near the top of the common behind the school. And being on the Ferguson Park area of the common it's right outside my house, and being a hayfever sufferer alongside with my Son (who has other allergies) and Daughter (also has a heart condition and asthma) this year we've been worse than ever.
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This area is common ground which should be accessible to all. The playpark is right on the road side and should encourage people to stop and use it. Unfortunately the grass and weeds are so high that it is unusable for small children to play. We gave a very busy caravan site just up the road from here and this does not welcome visitors to enjoy the common ground.The skatepark has no access through the tall grass and weeds for the children to get through. Numerous children have had to have tics removed because of all the long grass. This is the first year that so many children have been affected. Lastly the grass on the common hill is so long that the residents cannot access their gardens and backdoors. Is this acceptable? Do you live with this issue at your house? Ferguson park is a disgrace and an embarrassment for the community that live there. It on a main route through the town and it’s a complete eyesore next to a school. Fog fouling, full of glass and now full of ticks. Children need CV a safe place to play not just the wee bit at the bottom. Residents are also having to walk through the area to get to housing. Ticks have the ability to cause dreadful and long term disease . We are a market town surrounded by fields, open space and woodland. However you keep approving plans to build more housing on it so clearly not that concerned about biodiversity. That housing is also crammed into sites so people have no proper outdoor space , just parking and a postage stamp garden. For a start it’s an eye sore. There no wild flowers there is just long horrible grass. There is hardly any common left due to Perth and Kinross council taking it to expand the school! If there was a fire like there has been I the past it would at the houses before you know it. What’s the point of building all the new houses when the area looks like it does! There is some house that can’t see out of their kitchen window due to the trees growing in front of them. They council planted shrubs all over the place but they are never tidied growing over paths. How is partly sighted people supposed to know where the paths start and finish. Also the weeds that are growing in between the slabs are that think people can trip in them! How can children play safely on the common? Children can even play at the park due to the length of the grass. How management of P &K would like the common in front of their house? Or councillors?
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I don't find it unsightly, I'm young and enjoy the long grass on the common. Should you use "climate change" as a means to justify cutting spending in poor areas? No. Could've cut a few metres from around everyone's houses and made actual paths instead of a slight trim through the ticks homes. If you want a biodiversity park it should cost quite a bit, as you'd be changing the paths, layouts, investing in borders between houses and overgrown fields. Not just putting down the strimmer altogether and saying that's us done our bit for the environment. Like ignoring the fossil fuel industry and focusing on plastic straws only, if turning the scum areas (where some of us scum take pride in where we live) into overgrown abandoned fields you well better make the rest of the place look nice. Money saved on strimming? Better get the weeds out of the cracks of our pavements. Time saved on labour? Get the gutters clean and wash the outside of people's houses. If you want Ferguson Park to support "biodiversity for climate change" then show them it's not about cost cutting and you actually care about where we live. The whole estate is a mess, and the reason there's been harsh backlash is because you're taking away one of the last "nice" things about this place. Give us better, if the real reason you're doing this is climate change and not cost cutting you'll improve our lives elsewhere - start with weeding the pavements, cleaning the gutters and giving the place a good wash. 1 month a year could dedicate the community service folk to it, just be the same people who live here anyway. What a mess the Rattray common is in. Poor local kids unable to play in the common due to the overgrown grass and increased risk of ticks. There are far too many children and pets on this grass to allow it to grow wild through summer. The NHS physical health services in Blairgowrie and Rattray are almost non-existent so I think for many reason, this area should be maintained all throughout the year. The trees along the front of 1 Ferguson park also really need cut/maintained as it is causing blocked gutters and encouraging wasps to create nests, interferes with pedestrians using the path which is also used for wheelchair access. This needs dealt with ASAP, 1 Ferguson park is privately owned but these trees are PKC property so please cut them back.
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The "management" of this area is not working. It is impacting the enjoyment of peoples homes and those who use the area for exercise, leisure, play and dog walking. I agree that biodiversity and carbon reduction are important, but this site is not appropriate. 5 4 3 7 17 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 9 1 3 7 16 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 2 33 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site?
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Rattray Davie Park and Loon Braes Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime ERA0026 Ward 3 16 different plant species The park includes a play area and football pitches which need to be well maintained. However, there are other areas, notably to the east of the play area towards the pond and including the pond which could be a beautiful meadow area with some trees. I know that a small orchard will be planted to the west of the pond so that area should not be mown apart from a few "paths". A border of wild flowers beside the tarmac path would enhance the area and be pollinator friendly. The Loon Braes could benefit from a little attention (removal of Himalayan balsam for example). There was a Friends of Loon Braes group supported by the Green Space Ranger - a return to that would be great. The western end of the Braes, behind the pavillion, is being considered by the Rotary as an area to return to its former glory (paths, benches, an ornamental garden. Finally, behind the car park, there is a plan to plant some willow to enhance the area. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. Increased number of insects, birds, bees and butterflies Looks like an ideal opportunity to increase biodiversity and the town have a significant number of the population who are supportive of this and other wildlife enhancing ways of working. The Rattray park / Loon Braes is well used by children and it is important that access to diverse wildlife and the infastructure that supports it is a part of their cultural legacy. The park itself is the most wonderful break in a sea of industrial zones. It would be great if a similar project could be undertaken at the smaller Lochy park in Blairgowrie. There's an awful lot of grass that's kept short for no reason and the trees get damaged by the strimmers.
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Plant species present - lesser stitchwort, white clover, black medick, ribwort plantain, meadow buttercup, germander speedwell, broad- leaved dock, lady's mantle species, possibly Alchemilla mollis.Hogweed, velvet grass, ragwort, curly dock, slender speedwell, thistles, I support your initiative on all areas. I think that the areas will be enhanced for people and wildlife alike. My only suggestion would be to go further: make the areas bigger, and consider how they might link up with other wild areas nearby. There are already wild sites at this Park. The Loon Braes are totally neglected. The area around the pond is wild and there is plenty of wildlife there already. There is no need to make any other areas of this park into wilding sites. No need for the grass not to be cut when there is plenty of areas for the wildlife within the immediate area ie the braes children need to be able to play in the area without the fear of hidden dog mess in the long grass I think the efforts made to help wildlife are great and I would definitely support the expansion of the project. I love that the grass is being left to grow and support insects and promote environmental growth and supporting the environment. I'd love it if this was done more over, Blairgowrie is labeled as Scotland's biodiversity town so more of this great work. I am happy with the general idea of improving diversity of habitat thereby encouraging wildlife. However this should not come at the cost of having extensive areas of Davie Park effectively out-of-bounds for children, I say out-of-bounds as, like most parents, grandparents and other carers I have spoken to, I'm concerned as to just what may be lurking in the long grass, etc. Firstly, there is quite likely to be an increased presence of dog faeces as - I can confirm as a dog owner - it can be quite tricky to locate and clean up thoroughly after your dog in such long grass and, I imagine, this my discourage a greater number of
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dog owners to be irresponsible, including those who may think that no-one will actually walk through said long grass. Try telling that to small children! Secondly, most locals are well aware of the drug problem in and around the area and it does concern me that drug paraphernalia such as used syringes could be hiding in the overgrown areas. I LOVE wildlife and nature but have to say I find little appeal in the areas which have been left to naturalise. Perhaps over time they will become more aesthetically pleasing but, as far as I'm aware, areas managed for wildlife often need some more inventive input such as the sowing of native wildflowers which would previously have flourished in the area (at the moment, I mostly see an incredible number of docks). I'm not complaining about the fruit trees which have been planted, as they're a welcome addition, but, in my opinion, the bigger picture needs greater consideration. The last point I would like to make is regarding the general state of the park and how this further underlines my disagreement with PKC's priorities. Drug abuse, litter, dog-fouling, vandalism and graffiti are, like in many parks, all too common in Davie Park, and I would prefer money being invested in areas to help tackle these concerns rather than being diverted to wildlife management or similar. For example, if money were invested in the purchase and maintenance of cameras in known hotspots for drug-dealing/abuse, dog-fouling, littering and so on, perhaps we could begin to decrease the levels of anti-social - and in some cases, dangerous - behaviour. Children cannot play in the parks, the grass is now full of ticks and dog poo. Wilderness, wildness and variety of plants, terains etc are crucial for the planet and for children!
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It really good to see the nature growing freely instead of harshly cut grass. I want to see a town embracing wildlife and wild nature, as well as reducing our carbon footprint by increasing nature that soaks it up. This is the park where most of Blairgowrie families and visitors head to for recreational purposes. It is blessed with good play equipment and plenty of level playing field space. Very popular with dog walkers and well used by local nurseries, schools, fitness classes and sports clubs. Fine in spring to encourage bees, insects & pollination but over time this has turned into a nightmare. You cannot find dog mess amongst the overgrown vegetation, dog balls are lost, children and dogs are acquiring ticks and it has become an increasing fire hazard with the hot weather. Around the pond is dreadful and yet they optimistically put in a picnic table for visitors. We are now nearly at the end of July and it looks a disgrace. Shameful and reflects badly on our town. The area leading to and road side of the pond and loon braes are a disgrace and are areas where people would spend some of their day. Paths are overgrown and looks like an excuse to reduce the costs of maintaining the areas. I can understand letting the far side of the pond grow. I would also like to comment on the Blairgowrie side of the River Ericht. From the bridge looking up river does not look particularly inviting and again is an area where people would spend some time, particularly tourists. The upper path (which was a road in the past) leading from Lower Mill Street up the riverside is also a disgrace. The banking to the left of the path provides an area I would suggest is suitable for the purposes of the project without obliterating the views of the river. Again it looks like a cost cutting exercise in maintaining common areas in Blairgowrie.
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This site has a few areas already fit got this purpose, I just think that now you are extending this scheme it makes the park look very untidy. This will put a lot of people off from using our park. 11 4 1 2 2 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 11 2 1 3 3 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 11 8 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site?
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Ward 4 Aberfeldy Riverside Walk Plot Code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime HAY0025 Ward 4 Increase in butterflies and birds as well as other insects Far more is needed than just this small area. There are many areas in Aberfeldy which could be managed for wildlife. Eg. There are areas of grass in the Moness estate area which are mowed at least fortnightly in the growing season, this means as soon as wildflowers appear they are cut off and cannot be used by pollinators. These should be left at least early in the growing season and it would be good if PKC operataed the “No mow May” strategy and even extended this into June. As someone who lives on Moness Avenue I would love to see this happen. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. Increase in flowers and some bees More area for dog walker to leave behind their dogs business Species of plants - Velvet grass, buttercup, daisy, curly Dock, selfheal, ox eye daisy, dandelion The area along the riverside walk is a rather wild area at the moment but it looks as if you are only going to leave part of it from looking at the map. Why not just leave it all.
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Honestly I can’t read the map but I live in aberfeldy and strongly agree a with and support plans with naturalisation and rewilding to increase biodiversity. I am thrilled that pkc are taking these steps, they are so desperately needed. The no mow initiative I noticed you did last summer was also brilliant, please keep up the good work! Agree with Survey objective for this site but wish more was possible. Despite the attractiveness of this grassy site, it is little used except by watersport folk accessing a launching site and by dog walkers(mostly well disciplined but not all). The uncut area still hosts some Japanese Knot weed that needs to be eliminated. In terms of carbon reduction and indeed wildlife improvement, is so much leaf blowing and commection necessary? 4 1 1 0 1 2 3 4 Strongly Agree Agree Disagree Neither Agree or Disagree Number of Votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 4 1 1 0 1 2 3 4 Strongly Agree Agree Disagree Neither Agree or Disagree Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 5 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site?
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3 1 0 1 2 3 Strongly Agree Agree Disagree Neither agree or disagreeNumber of Votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 3 1 0 1 2 3 Strongly Agree Agree Disagree Neither agree or disagreeNumber of Votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 3 1 0 1 2 3 4 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site? Aberfeldy Victoria Park Plot Code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime HAY0027 Ward 4 Increased number of bees, butterflies present and birds seen during inspection This is a great use of the embankment with proximity to the playpark where children can see and learn more about the ecosystem. Would be good to extend the managed for wildlife area into the recreation ground, mown paths could create interest and beauty whilst encouraging users into the wild areas, helping them to appreciate the biodiversity? Cut and lift once a year Sweet cicely, pig nut, germander speedwell, clover, stitchwort, self heal, ground elder, hogweed, Velvet grass, lesser stitchwort, bluebell, buttercup Local and interested. Unmowed areas last year showed a variety of native wild flowers and insect life butterflies, moths and bees. This site will require management to avoid becoming overgrown with strong grasses/weeds, probably useful if sown with yellow rattle initially, and, as its in a public area, regular litter pick will be required. Pesticide spraying not required if managed.
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Ward 5 Bankfoot Coronation Park Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Current Maintenance Regime PBT0032 Ward 5 Nothing to note No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. - Has been cut in error to be revisited 2023 No voting data
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Birnam Willowbank Plot Code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime HDD0068 Ward 5 Increased number of bees, butterflies present and birds seen during inspection I love this idea for Willowbank, the area spills over onto the bank of the natural environment by the river and it makes absolute sense to do so. There is no need at all to cut the grass along that verge and there are many parks and places to walk - it's not an area that is actually walked on or played on anyway. Love it. Would also be great if you could do the same at the area marked Stell Park extension. We have red squirrels, hedgehogs and lots of lovely wild flowers but the flowers and grass is rigorously chopped back. There is a tarmac path through the park for walking and it would be lovely to walk through more of a natural landscape and the mowed grass (often so short there is no grass on it and quite unnecessary and not conducive to the environment either!). The park is on a steep hill so it is not an area for games either. I have never ever seen anyone sit in this park only people walking through it. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. Himalayan balsam present and spreading in uncut area from the wilder area under tree Should be much nicer for Willowbank residents. Extends existing habitat. May be issues with car parking - but that become illegal shortly.
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I live in Birnam. It's important for the Council to lead the way to encourage biodiversity and to normalise the importance - and beauty- of such areas so that residents might think about doing something similar in their gardens. It's a simple but crucial step to take. Chosen because local to me. Would like to see it extended to area to the north of the statue to Neil Gow with wild flower planting. Noone walks across that area. Well done for trials. Hope it increases. I note no menof the North inch. Local to Me, but agree with all sites Better for wildlife and the planet Any plans for helping wildlife would be welcomed. It’s a great site for wildflowers and grasses. It was covered with wild flowers when I was a child growing up there It is perfect. At the moment it is just close mown grass with little biodiversity. Your proposals would bring more pollinators and birds to our local area, and save you (and us) money. People do walk dogs there when it is dark, so some mowed path would be a good idea. Quiet area close to river walk and near school - a good location
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9 0 2 4 6 8 10 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagreeNumber of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 8 1 0 2 4 6 8 10 Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 9 0 2 4 6 8 10 Agree DisagreeNumber of votes Axis Title Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site?
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Luncarty Langlands Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime PLY0099 Ward 5 5 different grass species and increased number of insects I live in Luncarty and feel we have to do something in our community to help climate change. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. Yarrow, white clover, a couple ragwort, 5 types of grasses 1 0 1 2 Strongly Agree Neither agree or disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 1 0 1 2 Strongly Agree Neither agree or disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 1 0 1 2 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site?
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Muthil Coronation Park Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Current Maintenance Regime SMU0078 Ward 5 No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. No voting data Muthill Highlandman Park Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Current Maintenance Regime SMU0081 Ward 5 Increased number of insects and butterflies present No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. No voting data
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Pitcairngreen Common Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime PAL002 2 Ward 5 10 different plant species present - White clover, ragwort and yarrow I welcome the proposal to manage the village greens for wildlife. I've only selected 'disagree' because I don't believe leaving the mapped areas to naturalise will result in much more than rank grasses. The area is made up of municipal grass suitable for heavy recreational use and has been kept very short cropped for many years - it is unlikely to have many native flowering plants among the sward to help naturalise the area, so some planting could be needed to kick start to creation of something of any biodiversity value. Be aware that many people walk dogs on the greens so it will be important to maintain mown pathways e.g. along under the trees on the west and northern sides of the main 'big green', plus some sort of circuit within the 'small green'. Many people with kids (and pushchairs) access the playpark from the centre of the southern side, just across the road from the pub, so need a mown pathway across to the playpark to enable them to reach it. There are no pathways marked on the map, and I would highly recommend consultation with the local No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise.
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community to decide where to put paths, otherwise there is a high risk of complaints about existing use of the area being impeded, which could put the success of the whole initiative at risk. There are crocuses plus I think some daffodils under the trees and in a couple of other areas, but these shouldn't interfere negatively with any native wildflowers. There have been some non- native (Spanish) bluebells planted in a couple of places at some point over the last few years - these threaten the native bluebells in the surrounding area so this could be an opportunity to remove them if it's clear it's part of management to protect and enhance native biodiversity. This is a semi rural area so overly neat gardening not needed. Managing less intensively is good for your budget and good for the environment. So long as the kids can still play with footballs on the cut area in the centre more nature is a good thing. Nice balance as we already have the football pitch and good artificial planting
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so an area for wildlife will give the green more space for nature. 3 0 1 2 3 4 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 3 0 1 2 3 4 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 2 1 0 1 2 3 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site?
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Pitlochry Ballinlochan Plot code War d Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime PAL002 2 Ward 5 The number of butterflies and other insects have increased as well as some other wildlife present during the inspections Open site popular with walkers and on edge of Pitlochry. Would enhance amenity and wildlife locally from adjacent farmland. Be good if a mix of wildflowers could be seeded so not just dandelions that are prevalent there normally. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. Plant species - ragwort, buttercup, clover, dock, clover, daisy, dandelion This is a start for Pitlochry but much much more space needs to be allocated in Pitlochry for this initiative. It is one small area on the very outskirts of the village and there are many other locations around Pitlochry that could also be included, such as some of the parks, recreation ground, verges and areas along the river (both sides). it is a natural area anyway, provided the path along the burn is kept clear This is not far from the end of my road, so I walk thro it or past it to get to the Black Castle field, or up the footpath to Kinnaird. It will be more interesting if not mown, more variety ... but the footpath along the burn next to the site should receive attention as it too gets waterlogged and at present folk therefore escape into the site ... which has a de facto path into it. There's a big demand for allotments in Pitlochry. A consultation was to be organized last April. No progress has been made yet. If this area is left uncut, birch trees will soon colonise it, making it difficult to convert to allotments later. Please keep cutting it and expedite consultations so we can finally have alottments.
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7 2 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 4 5 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 6 2 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site? The Ballinlochan site was , in 2021 agreed as the site for allotments in Pitlochry following discussions between the Community Council and PKC planning and Greenspace. The next step was to be a consultation with local residents on the use of the site. This has been delayed because of staff shortages but should be going ahead at some point. To rewild the site is both a waste of effort and will make the allotment development more difficult. Please remove the site form your list and replace with another. Love the current wildlife in this area and hope it can flourish with this help. I monitored the site for this project during 2022 and submitted monthly reports using the online form. My main observation and conclusion was that the area of land left uncut could be put to good use with the planting of some fruit trees that the local community could benefit from. Families living close to the site could be invited to come along to the tree planting and take some responsibility for the care and maintenance of the trees. It would also attract in more insect and bird life to the area I think. This may apply to other sites too. Ward 6
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7 1 0 2 4 6 8 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagreeNumber of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 5 3 0 2 4 6 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagreeNumber of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 7 1 0 2 4 6 8 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site? Crieff Macrosty Park Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime SCR0004 Ward 6 Increased number of insects I think it's a good starting point but you could go further. You could have the area around the bandstand unmown, but leave 4 wide paths mown up to it. Or the steep slope up to the main road could be left to grow. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. 6 different plant species I live in crieff types of grasses - creeping thistle, lesser knapweed I do like the idea of naturalising the crescent shaped area by the carpark but as it's the point where most dogs get out of cars, it's likely to become an area where dogs will poo, and perhaps not be picked up by owners, as it's in the "long grass". Could alternative sites be found away from such a focal point; ie anywhere else in the park! It is important to keep local insects, birds and wildlife protected as once gone may be impossible to get back. It also helps younger people understand the importance of caring for other species as they all help each other in the chain. Ie. bees to pollenate flowers and we get the honey. Not all green areas have to be manicured as long as they are kept clean and tidy, there is a difference between a wild area and a mess and this can be learned easily. Lovely park that my grandchildren visit and enjoy. This is just a small area in a very large space. I hope it proves popular with all the users and will eventually be extended further. Crieff Sauchie Park
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SCR0009 Ward 6 10 species of plants present as well as bees and other insects I live in Crieff and know both proposed sites in the 2 local parks. The large grass area in Sauchie Park is, sadly, hardly ever used to play on and so there's definitely scope to leave large areas of the green-space left to rewild and, therefore hopefully, encourage more moths, butterflies, bees, wasps and other vital insect life and plant life. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. 1 0 1 2 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 1 0 1 2 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 1 0 1 2 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site?
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Ward 7 Kinross Davies Park Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime KKR0025 Ward 8 7 different plant species present - Clover, plantain, docks, achillea, dandelion, brown knapweed (centaurea jacea) I believe that a bigger area of Davis Park could be naturalised or managed for wildlife. The path leading from Davis Park along Lathro could also be used as a wildlife area. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. Increased number of insects Almost any attemts at rewilding should be encouraged. Davis Park footpath link should be extended to include the rest of the railway line forming a continuous wildlife corridor to Queich Bridge and Milnathort. This would enhance wildlife and public enjoyment. Footpaths should be marked for cycles to ensure pedestrians are not run down and encourage cycle use. Less mowing would save the Council money. 4 0 1 2 3 4 5 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 2 2 0 1 2 3 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 2 2 0 1 2 3 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site?
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Kirkgate Park Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime KKR0005 Ward 8 Increased number of bees and other insects My concerns are based on examples of “encouraging wildlife” I have seen elsewhere where grass areas used by the public are dug up and wild flowers planted then left to rot in an unsightly mess for the rest of the year and appear to be an excuse for the respective councils to save money maintaining these areas in a usable state for the public. The Kirkgate park in Kinross in my opinion has sufficient areas left wild to encourage wildlife without additional areas being created and encroaching on the well used maintained areas which are used by the not so wild residents of Kinross. Whilst I agree that we should not be using pesticides in maintaining these areas we should not loose sight of the fact that we need to maintain areas for the public in general to use and to attract visitors to the area which the Kirkgate Park currently does. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. 8 plant species present - Rosa suckers, Achillea, Docks, Dandelion, Small yellow flower, oYes- eye daisy, ragwort, clover It's a good start to see some areas will be left to naturalise at Kirkgate Park but it does seem like a bit of a missed opportunity as the three areas selected are very small. I would hope this will be scaled up at Kirkgate and in other sites across Kinross-shire. I'm puzzled as to why this isn't being done in more areas as surely leaving areas to rewild is as beneficial to your budget as it is to wildlife. If we are to properly address climate change and biodiversity loss we need to be much more proactive and bolder in the decisions we make. There should also be a complete ban on using herbicides across PKC in my opinion. Wildflowers = bees, which are essential to our environment. It might help the flooding hat happens there every year and will be great for biodiversity. Makes sense. Not that something of this scale will contribute to the impact of global warming in any substantial way, but it will look a bit more natural. There is no information for proposals on any of these sites it is purely a colour section of each map. What is it specifically that is being done on each site? to what extent? It appears on the face of it to be a cost reduction scheme of less maintenance... Could the areas for naturalising be extended? I think this is a brilliant thing you are doing, just would love to see more of it. Seems a very small green patch on the plan for such a big space?
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I am very disappointed to see so little being done in Kirkgate park. NatureScot have done some wildlife friendly management of small areas but there is much land particularly on the slopes and around the trees which could be allowed to go wild or at least more wild while still leaving plenty of mown space for sports and picnics as appropriate. I’d also like to take this opportunity to voice my disappointment over the amount of ground which PKC insists on mowing unnecessarily wasting staff resources and fuel. Disagreed because I think that far too little has been planned for this expansive area. Try to be more ambitious. Including further areas of long grass or even wildflowers within the main body of the park would look lovely. As a regular park user I would suggest the whole of the triangular area which has a squirrel on it on your map (this is not in fact a triangular area on the ground, but only on the map). Cut a path through from east to west with another meandering from north to south and this would make a lovely addition to the beauty of the park. This area is far enough away from the playing area on the one side and the large amenity area on the other. It will look striking! This is an amazing idea! Less chemicals is also likely to make it safer for dogs & children and thus benefit the community ! Thank you! My comment is valid for all proposed sites The areas managed for wildlife and insects should be expanded to encourage biodiversity especially down the waterfront. I feel Kinross is a very important site for biodiversity in Perth & Kinross. KirkGate Park is at the heart of our community, and if local people and visitors are made of aware of efforts to increase biodiversity, this will hopefully increase people's awareness of the issues. It’s a start but the proposed areas are very small in comparison to the size of the park. Anything that stops pollution into Loch will be a great improvement. This seems to be plan aimed at spending less money leading to an untidy and uncared for landscape. Parks by definition are highly managed public spaces close to centres of population. Biodiversity and conservation efforts should be focused on wider landscape scale projects.
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Grass thrives on being regularly eaten or cut - and folk like to walk on short grass. Also, long grass can harbour ticks and shades wildflowers. Unmanaged grass tends to become weed-infested very quickly. Ideally, the grass would be grazed by a few goats (they will eat most weeds). Sheep could be used, but goats will eat more weeds, so that ideally no weedkiller would be needed. Their droppings would mean no fertilizer would be needed either. I've seen goats being used to keep grass verges trimmed in another country - temporary fencing is used to keep them off the road. Brilliant, next to the nature reserve so complements their ambitions. Happy to see the management of these sites changing in this regard. Would like to see the program expanding to other areas in PKC. The areas shown are so small. I think a lot more could be done to enhance the area with wild flower meadows. The managed areas are a good idea and it is hoped that they can be expanded and local communities encouraged to create their own areas. It was good to see that there were several information boards explaining how this activity can increase biodiversity and also pointers to Nature Scot which has pages on how to encourage wildlife and pollinators in your garden. A useful addition would be a QR code so that people can more easily access this information. 22 3 1 1 0 5 10 15 20 25 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 17 5 2 2 1 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 18 9 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site?
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Scotlandwell Recreation Park Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime KKR0072 Ward 8 6 different plant species present and an increased number of insects With its close proximity to Portmoak Moss, this area could be used to supplement the feeding ground for the small pearl-bordered fritillary and green hairstreak butterflies, as well as the buff footman moth. Planting rock-rose, bird’s foot- trefoil, bilberry, broom, gorse and dogwood would all benefit these species and there is lots of room under the trees for such plants which could be allowed to grow to their full extents without adding to further maintenance burdens. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. Insects 3 6 spot ladybird, 1 tiny brown fly, 1 white moth, black leaf beetle 10x present Very much agree with any plans to improve nature value. I would like to see more areas for wildlife, longer and more species diverse grass whilst retaining some area for children to play football etc. I would also like to see the existing trees retained and possibly a few more trees around the edges of the site as well. As resideents of Scotlandwell and having to pay very large Council Tax bills each year, PKC cannot use this green-agenda excuse to save money and not maintain the only play area for our children. PKC have been very "generous" in approving the the excessive development plans of new 4 bedroom family homes in Scotlandwell right next door to this play area and now they cannot and must not try and save money by not maintaining this play area. The area is already surrounded by fields, woodland and well maintained gardens with birds and bees without having this one patch of grass turned into another field. Keep cutting the grass each week or give each household in Scotlandwell a £500 reduction in Council Tax each year forever. To help wildlife and pollinators in the area. This can only be a good thing. Well done.
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4 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 4 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 4 2 0 1 2 3 4 5 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site? I agree with not cutting the grass to the west and north of the "Well Green" ( wrongly named Scotlandwell recreation ground) but the local community have worked hard on adjacent flower beds. The looks of these are completely spoiled by the long grass and weeds in front of them. I am sure your gardeners would not want dandelions etc just in front of their managed flower beds. What a pity you didn't visit the site to see for yourselves . I trust you will now visit to see the mess it makes. Please mow the areas in front of the managed flower beds as soon as possible and particularly before the platinum jubilee week end when a tea party is being held on the Green. Thank you for your help. This site, which by the way is usually known as the well green, is used by the community as a games area and as such needs the grass cut to a reasonable length. \you do not currently collect cuttings, which is a problem. The community have planted ornamental flowering shrubs to two sides and these will be hidden if your current, new, mowing plans are continued. They will also be overun with weeds. We also have a problem this year with the European meadow tic and long wet grass is just what they need, and just what the children don't need. Finally, as the well green is bordered by fields we do not think there is any particular need for a wild life corridor. As it is, deer are regularly seen on the green; they seem to like the shorter grass. So, whereas we entirely agree with your stated aims, we do not think that the measures are appropriate to this site which is surrounded by countryside. Ward 9
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Abernethy Powrie Park Plot Code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime KAY0002 Ward 9 5 diffferent species of bees present during inspection. Increase in butterflies and other insects as well as new flowers/plants I think it's great that pkc will be managing all of these sites in a more wildlife friendly way, however I feel that on a lot of the sites, including Powrie Park. larger spaces should be managed in this way. I appreciate that space is needed for sports on these public spaces but other than that I would like the unmown areas to be the default management method rather than an 'afterthought'. I commented on this area as it is the closest to where I live. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. Good for the environment The site is a park, has had intervention by the community in adding fruit trees, has a wildlife friendly wooded area and does not require areas that could be used by children and parents allowed to be overgrown. I live in abernethy and watch the reduction ion habitats with concerns; and I have become more aware of the importance of biodiversity and the need to change expectations. I like to see un mown parts of the village. It's an area in the park that is hardly used and will look lovely with wild flowers As long as the main park area is kept short then no harm in the grassed areas beside the path being left longer. My only concern is the increasing number of dog poo bags being left about the area and not being deposited in the bins. If the grass is left longer - will the owners even bother to pick their dog mess up?
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Have serious concerns re ticks in the long grass given the number of younger children which use Powrie. Lyme's disease is a serious concern given its now the most common tick borne disease in the Northern Hemisphere and has been growing steadily since the 1980s. The only entrance to the park is now an eyesore. Why pick the entrance? I understand the reasoning behind the project but you are picking areas that are most visible. Also, why do this to villages that are surrounded by countryside? Much as I hate to say this but it has encouraged lazy dog owners to leave the fouling in the long grass. On the whole I am not against what you are trying to achieve. 4 1 1 1 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 Strongly Agree Agree Disagree Neither agree or disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 4 1 2 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 Strongly Agree Agree Disagree Neither agree or disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 5 3 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site?
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Bridge of Earn Victory Park Plot Code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime KBN0048 Ward 9 Bees, birds, butterflies and other wildlife present as well as an increase in plant species This sort of management should have been happening years ago. A good start, please manage more areas of Bridge of Earn like this. Stop mowing along Deich Burn footpath No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. Plant species present - Yarrow, Dandelion, cuckooflower, Velvet grass, curly Dock, buttercup, lesser stitchwort, clover, speedwell, mayweed, spear thistle Encouraging wildlife and diversity is good. Was lovely to see all the wild flowers kast year in other areas that were left last year. I live near Victory Park so it will be interesting to see the effects for myself It’s a park, children play in the park. Areas where children don’t play would be better places to try this. Also Bridge of Earn already has a bad problem with dog dirt. People will let their dog go in the long grass and won’t bother picking it up. Children will still go in in and therefore tread in it. Also the football players will need to retrieve their ball from it and will also tread in it Long uncut grass in this park will end up full of dog poo. The area is right next to a football pitch. Put them together and it will result in balls being retrieved from long unkempt areas of grass full of dog poo! We have already to lift dog poo from pitches before matches are played which is bad enough in short grass. Great idea but please, please reconsider the location. I think it's important for the inhabitants of Bridge of Earn to be able to take ownership of their village. This includes being
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part of any conservation, nature and wildlife-supporting actions. We need natural corridoors for wildlife and plantations of pollinators. i would like to see more done in Bridge of Earn, but this is certainly a start. It is my local park and is currently rather featureless. I think the proposals as they stand are quite modest. I think this is a great idea there is areas. Which I think could be left in grass areas which have a high clover groth for the bees the council cut the clover down every visit As we live in a country village I don't see why we need to leave an eyesore in our local park to encourage wild flowers etc. For years Bridge of Earn have been winners of awards for keeping the village beautiful with planters etc. Many of our wonderful volunteers gave up hours of their spare time to achieve this. I feel like this year where you have decided to cut back on not only the cutting of grass in the park but also ignoring the need for maintaining the verges by the roadside it has been a kick in the teeth for all the hard work involved. We used to have a beautiful country village now we have an eyesore with no hope of it getting any better.
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8 2 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes Increasing biodiversity should be an important aim for PKC? 6 1 1 1 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Strongly Agree Agree Neither agree or disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Number of votes The biodiversity trials are supporting climate change? 7 3 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Agree Disagree Number of votes Do you agree or disagree with our proposals for this site?
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Ward 10 Craigie Park Entrance Perth Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime PFM0006 Ward 10 8 different species of plants present - Grass and white clover, ragwort, stitchwort, catsear, spear thistle, daisy, buttercup Mowing paths and letting the rest grow gives the best of both worlds. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. Increase in bees, butterflies and other wildlife
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Perth Darnhall Park Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Current Maintenance Regime PDA0013 Ward 10 Plant species present - Clover, buttercup, dock various grasses, an abundance of native yarrow , Timothy, Rye, common bent, Yorkshire fog or ciliate mekllic. scentless Mayweed, pineapple weed, knapweed, ragwort & broadleaf plantain No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. No voting data Increased number of insects
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Viewlands Reservoir Perth Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime POA0006 Ward 10 11 different plant species present - Clover, daisy, plantain, buttercup, marsh orchid, dock, thistle, knapweed, nettle, reeds, red clover, tansie, This is a huge green space area, so there's plenty space for everyone, leaving parts a bit more naturalised gives insects a chance and gives space for nature to thrive. We need to get away from manicured, and bland greenspaces, it will be great to watch over the months and years and see how the areas left, develop naturally. Reducing the use of chemicals is also good news. Cut and lift once a year Increase in bees and other insects as well as some birds The long grass and weeds make the place look an even bigger mess than it normally looks Anything that we can do to help our wildlife is surely worth doing I like on Buchan Drive. I am very passionate about wildlife and i think it is amazing that you're doing this. Last year in the "wild patches", noticed some butterfly species i hadn't seen in a long time (small copper for example) along with species that aren't doing so well...i have uploaded a photo of a tortoiseshell i took there last summer. I would love to see some wildflower patches there this year, it would be such a wonderful benefit to our wildlife. Please keep up the good work!
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Allows for build up of litter, glass bottles, plastic bottles, food wrappings etc discarded largely by school pupils. This builds up and I pick up regularly on a daily basis. Much more difficult to see/access when grass/weeds are high. Cans, bottles, plastic, broken glass, discarded cigarettes are a far higher danger to local wildlife. Moreover, this is a very busy dog walking area/walking area for young children - overgrown, muddy sections are dangerous for the reasons cited above. Unsightly and unsafe. Cost cutting. This area is nearest to where I live. I strongly agree with these plans for the area, and indeed all of the proposed sites. I have Done the same thing with my gardens, and am delighted with the resulting increase in wildlife. I think that more areas could be left to wildlife e.g., the southern former reservoir area I like to see the wild flowers left undisturbed in the two main meadows as long as there is a mown path to walk across or into them. The plans look similar to what happens already and the park seems to work well from what I can see on my daily walk in it.
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This is my nearest park and the one I use most. I think the proposals are very good. It is hard to balance promoting wildlife/ naturalising areas but also maintain access and amenity for the local community. But in the reservoir area I think there is scope to dedicate an even bigger area to promoting wildlife. The area to the west side of the old reservoir is marked blue on the map but could easily be added to the light green zone to the east of the reservoir. I think this may have been trailed last year so it is a shame if negative feedback has reduced the snow of the proposals in this park. Because I love the meadow flowers and we should be supporting wildlife all we can. It is a great site already with a wildlife focus. Good to enhance for community and environmental benefits
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Overall I am very supportive of the proposal BUT; It is quite possibly not radical enough to achieve significant development of wild flowers and wildlife. The dark green area is quite small and other areas are split up which will inhibit spread of wild flora. There is an area to the west side of the park which has a significant bed of wild orchids (I think !) (by the resisted 'bug house'). If I'm right this should get particular attention. The development of a wild flower meadow takes several years raking off the scythed (not trimmed) autumn grass to make the soil poorer - one year's test is too short. Especially if the ground has been fed in the past. I look forward to seeing some areas re- wilded - good for biodiversity and supports more pollinators Since grass cutting was reduced in certain areas a profusion of wild orchids has emerged and one hopes this will continue with a variety of wild flowers. Also it would be hoped that the volunteers involved in planting copses of trees would return to retrieve the plastic sleeves now littering the areas. Although the community officer undertook to do so, none have been removed. There is a danger that this 'cost cutting' exercise could encourage this sort of neglect and pollution.
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Site is looking great, lots of yellow buttercups in the no mo areas, lots of insects on the go!
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Ettrick Drive Perth Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime POA0048 10 22 plants species present - Dandelion, daisy, buttercup, cuckoo flower, forget me not, grasses, docks, sticky willy, ragwort, spear thistle, stitchwort, speedwell, orange hawkweed, ribwort plantain, cuckoo flower, medick, poppy, sow thistle, sow thistle, stitcher, Broad leaved dock, This area has lots of green space and it would be nice to utilise some of it for this use. As long as every space does not get taken over as there is a huge need for the spaces for dog-walkers also. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. Increased number of insects, butterflies and bees This is a great idea as it's an opportunity to demonstrate what wildlife value can be created when grass is left long during the growing season. It introduces people to a less tidy but still managed way of gardening that is good for wildlife and saves money too. I like to see the dandelions and cuckoo flower that are flowering just now. I'm hoping that orange tip butterflies might lay their eggs here and increase the local population. Lovely to see the colour and variety on the road and path verges. As well as being more diverse, just makes the environment more interesting overall. We don't need mowed grass in all public areas. I'd like to see this in as many public areas as possible in Oakbank/Western Edge. Even larger areas of grass/park areas, which we have lots of, even if a few selected areas could not mowed. This would give more interest and improve the number of pollinator friendly corridors.
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Think the idea of allowing areas to naturalise is such a great idea and is something we should all be doing even in some small way. Look forward to seeing the wild flowers/ grasses and hopefully the influx of insects/birds/animals that have declined over the years. As humans we take from nature all the time, it’s time we started giving back. Not mowing this grass makes the area especially unsuitable for walking dogs and young children, not to mention adults, as the grass will now be home to a much larger number of ticks. Ticks are a health risk. As this is in the vicinity of my family home, I should have been given the opportunity to comment before you allowed this to happen.
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Ward 11 Jeanfield Cemetery Perth Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime PJE0002 Ward 11 28 different plant species present Lovely place as it is ,leaving areas uncut would be poor cheap maintained, natural areas can be manage well Cut and lift once a year Increased number of insects, birds, bees and butterflies Great idea but this is not nearly ambitious enough! We have the data that shows how good these places are for wildlife and why we need more biodiversity, you should be doing this anyway, at all possible locations. I live right next to this cemetery and it is great for wildlife but could be much better. And not 2 minutes walk away, after seeing these signs, there was a council employee pouring gallons of pesticide right next to the pavement near Wickes - why? It happens by my flats at The Stables too, please stop it - there are lots of birds, insects, mammals around that will be harmed by doing this. I personally feel that due to the very small area in the cemetery that it will have little or no benefit. Species of plants include - Buttercup, daisy, germander speedwell, lesser trefoil, clover, ribwort plantain, Black medick, Lady's Bedstraw, cat's ear, self- heal, yarrow, daisy, dandelion, spear thistle, noble yarrow, foxes-and-cubs, fireweed, hawkweed, thistle, michaelmas daisy I am one of the main volunteers at Perth Community Farm which is on land that is part of the Westbank project, adjacent to the Jeanfield Cemetery. We are currently allowing several areas of regeneration on the section that we manage and planting up several others with bee and insect friendly mixtures. I think it would be great to get together somehow to compare notes on what seems to be working and to develop areas together, for example to create corridors for bats. To improve bio-diversity, provide better habitats for wildlife, compensate for the loss of natural habitats, reduce maintenance by fossil fuelled machinery and give brighter overall appearance. I would also like to see replacement trees planted for those lost over recent years.
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Seven Acres Perth Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime PLE0048 Ward 11 7 different plant species present and increased number of insects Areas make sense, but quite narrow beside Newhouse road. Possibly best area of existing biodiversity are the mature trees (40 + years) on the west side of tbe astro turf pitch. These trees are impt in an area with little woodland. Possibly connect this area to the planned areas beside the lock up garages making a bigger area. Plant more native trees e.g. Birch, rowan and oak. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. Yarrow, nettles, buttercup, dock, dandelions, clover, ragwort, plantain
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Ward 12 Commercial Street Perth Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime PBW0004 Ward 12 Its a good idea...important to encourage insects of all types No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. Increased number of insects and bees This proposal is simply a blatant attempt at cost cutting by PKC by shedding its responsibilities under a flimsy and unconvincing guise of encouraging wildlife. We know from previous experiments, such as the Millennium Park, that such trials to promote wildlife end in failure and require much more effort than merely reducing maintenance effort. Plant species present - ragwort, docks I think even more of the area should be allowed to naturalise/be set aside for wildlife
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Dundee Road Perth Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime PBW0006 Ward 12 21 different species of plants present - Dandelion, selfheal, poppy, ox eye daisy, velvet grass, daisy, ragwort, hawkweed, common selfheal, buttercup, white clover, lesser knapweed, autumn hawkbit, fringed willow herb, corn poppy, curly dock, bitter dock, ragwort, lesser trefoil, field forget-me-not, germander speedwell. I actually wanted to disagree with ALL trial sites in Perth and only chose Dundee Road because you only allowed me one choice in this section. Dundee Road specifically is a main route into our FAIR CITY and there are clear objectives at various sites to attract more holiday and tourist trade. We should be looking to upgrade the beauty and pristine nature of a City that in recent times has become less FAIR and more dowdy in several areas. The last thing we should be doing is presenting scruffy overgrown roadsides and parks. The UK as a whole contributes less than 1% of global emissions and this programme will contribute absolutely nothing in terms of climate change and global warming (I suggest you calculate the percentage). It simply smacks of cost saving dressed up as biodiversity at the expense of making Perth scruffy. Cut and lift once a year Increased number of bees and an increase in insects It would unsightly on a very busy route much travelled by tourists, who are likely to think it is just lack of care. Lovely to see the variety of wild plants popping up through not mowing.
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Perth, Dunkeld Road Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime HAY0003 Ward 12 Good to see this wide verge being left to naturalise. No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. over 10 species of plants present This is an area that is used regularly by dog walkers and I am concerned that if the grass isn't cut then some will be inclined to not pick up after their dog. It is bad enough just now. Also it is next to a very busy road that if you are trying to encourage wildlife, the dogs that use that area may scare the wildlife that is being encouraged to live there. Also it is a very busy road and I fear for their safety whilst trying to set up a new home for themselves. Road kill is bad enough with birds on that road. Increased number of insects, butterflies and bees Little used as an area for children to play due to proximity to main road (play space in North Muirton is limited) Am slightly concerned that a main route into Perth may have visitors assuming it is unkempt rather than a naturalised area Bee species seen- common carder, red tailed bumblebee, buff-tailed bumblebee, unknown solitary bee species. Other insects seen- lots of hoverflies, solitary wasp sp, ladybird, small moth. Most insects seen in one patch of clover in the sunshine. Swathes of buttercups, daisies, bramble, cow parsley, common chickweed.
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The plans don't interfere with current usage or any other proposed use. It provides a welcome distraction from ugly and polluting surroundings.
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Edinburgh Road Perth Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime PFM0012 Ward 12 over 10 species of plants present - Buttercup, clover, cocks foot, lesser stitchwort, patches of speedwell, sorrels/docks, yarrow, catsear, spear thistles This area is not really of interest to wildlife except vermin. By not maintaining it, it gives a poor impression to visitors arriving in Perth Cut and lift once a year Increased number of insects, butterflies, birds and bees Having wilder areas next to cycle paths enhanced my experience of travelling through the area. Bees seen to be more interested in hedges and plants next to cut grass area rather than the trial site
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Greyfriars Cemetery Perth Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime PCC0245 Ward 12 13 different plant species present I walk through frequently & enjoy seeing the birds & insects. It is a lovely quiet haven. Cut and lift once a year Increased number of insects, birds, bees and butterflies I was previously a ranger and worked maintaining wildlife meadows. They are important habitats and allowing species to come through naturally in the graveyard will create an oasis in the town foe pollinators and other animals. Notes from trial inspection - A lot of docken plants on the left hand side of the graveyard from the car park entrance which are overcrowding the area. A lot of Mare’s Tail, cow parsley Graveyards are not a suitable location for these trials. It limits access to grave stones and shows a lack of care for the graveyard. We should be tending these graveyards better, not leaving them to wildlife.
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South Inch Perth Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime PSI0002 Ward 12 Increase in bees, butterflies and other insects Almost annually now much of the areas on the east and south of the south inch are under water from flooding as this becomes more prevalent, perhaps these areas could be planted up with more marginal type plants and water loving trees such as Liquidambar, Red Maple, Hornbeam, Willow, Magnolia and Sycamores which would help keep the water levels down while providing habitat for more birds. Cut and lift once a year Increased number of new plants/flowers growing I am very much in favour of sites being managed for biodiversity in Perth and the wider area. Unclear about the difference between the two greens - but I hope it means that sides will be proactively managed (e.g. wildflowers planted) and not just that the grass will not be mowed. wild flower areas covered in a plethora of bees, hoverflies, wasps, other insects. Dandelion, clover, daisies, ferns, dock leaves, nettles, buttercup, ragwort, ox eye daisy The South Inch is huge, and while many people use it, vast areas are severely under-utilised. Rewilding efforts here will make a significant difference to the park, and will make the park more appealing to people. Parks within the city centre act as areas of nature for those who cannot get out of the city centre, and boosting the natural diversity will additionally benefit people's mental health as they can visit more natural areas without leaving the city. I use this area daily and feel the sections planned to use will work well. It would be nice to see the planting of wild flowers in the area similar to that on Dundee's Riverside. This will give it a visually better look but also offers additional benefits to the wildlife. I agree but I would go further or consider looking at a wider area if this year goes well. Leaving the grass to grow will encourage ticks
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I’m afraid I’m old school, and I like public areas, especially areas as large and as popular as the south inch, to be kept “neat and tidy” There is nothing more unsightly than seeing public areas looking unkept. However, that said, I also agree that something has to be done to address the matter of climate change. So, my suggestion for all of your trial sites, would be to allow all areas to naturalise on the understanding that that you sow the areas in the spring time with tonnes of good quality wildflower seeds. Create areas of wildflower meadows which will be enjoyed for years to come. These areas, when in the height of Summer, would then be thriving with insects and wildlife, and be appealing on the eye, rather than looking like an unsightly, unkept mess! We’re a city to be proud of, let’s be proud of our green spaces too!
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Whilst I applaud the effort to increase biodiversity I do believe this is a cost saving exercise. I have seen previous attempts unfortunately untrimmed, cut areas leads to increase in dog fouling, littering in these areas - probably the reverse of what nature needs. The south inch specifically is a good example of poor management of a wildlife area. The reeds are full of litter, have been used for drug drops etc. The water is borderline stagnant and lacks oxygen. The tunnelled area and the pond area in the evening leads to anti-social behaviour of large groups drinking and breaking glass. The high reeds and uncut grass areas provide a shield to hide behind for this behaviour. The viewing deck I don’t think has been maintained - I like the idea of walking over this to look at the birds but it is extremely slippery under foot. Ending on a positive - the new tree avenue planted down the centre path has been a great idea. I’m not one for thinking back to the good old days but the open spaces used to be very well maintained until it was contracted out in the late 90s leading to corner cutting. The open spaces have never recovered. It is an area I know well and walk there. As a neighbour of the South Inch who left part of our grass to ‘naturalise’ last year, I’m delighted that PKC have introduced this development and look forward to the increased biodiversity that will ensue. Looking at the plans, I’m surprised that the earmarked areas are not larger.
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Makes sense to do less, and give nature a chance to regenerate and diversify. However, the area should still be kept clear of litter. But please do not waste money on putting any signs up about this initiative. Signs are unnecessary, and are themselves wasteful of resources and effort. I do agree but think the proposals could be more ambitious. The South Inch is used for sports, play and dog walking. Leaving grass uncut in any area could encourage an increase in ticks, mice and rats and spots where people may not notice their dog has pooed or kids (and adults!) may not notice it. I feel that this is just a back way of reducing the amount of work required maintaining parks and will look untidy, full of weeds, uncared for and give the wrong impression to visitors. Need more wild wildlife spaces Need to teach youngsters about wildlife - need to be role models The area is much too small- we should be trialling this on a much bigger scale- the whole South Inch for example. That would make more people aware of the trial and we'd be able to see it effects on a bigger scale. There is also nothing being done on the North Inch! Why not? This should be trialled and implemented in every park- the amount of carbon we burn cutting the grass is an embarrassment. Hesitantly agree - in my opinion, the proposal does not go far enough to support biodiversity. I would like to see much more of the greenspace in the council area to be used to support wildlife and biodiversity.
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I would like the areas for increased biodiversity and wildlife to be bigger on the South Inch & elsewhere. On our densely populated island there is so little room for wildlife between our urban developments, transport infrastructure & human domination of the countryside by agriculture, not to mention the additional effects of runoff into waterways from roads and farming. In particular I ask why hasn't this initiative been extended to the North Inch? Much of that huge expanse of grass monoculture is not used for sport. Parts of it could become far more biodiverse. I am not in favour of planting of e.g. wildflower seed mixes which is a sop to misinformed ideas of what "wild" is. I believe much more in allowing & assisting natural regeneration. The picture I attach is of scabious and knapweed found around the pond on the North Inch in August 2021. I think the volume of space in South Inch is tiny compared to what could be possible. There is an abundance of open grass in the park, more should be done to create large blocks of the mowed grass to be left for wildlife. This could be made into an attraction in itself, with paths mowed through the blocks for people to enjoy. Protecting our pollinators, providing habitat for wildlife and reducing carbon emissions is a win-win situation as it also looks nicer and can cut costs. The South Inch has a wonderful diversity of trees. Most people take no notice of them. It would add to the general theme of public awareness if information boards were set up. These should be 'child friendly' and accessible and useful to teachers with school groups. It needn't cost much!
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I walk my dog on the inch every morning and the small inch looks terrible with the long grass in the middle in patches. It is beginning to look like waste ground and is now full of litter. I appreciate the incentive you are attempting to achieve but this is the first thing visitors to Perth see when entering the city and it looks awful. It does not look too bad on the outskirts but when people are attempting to enter the inch - they again have to tramp through long grass which is flattening it - so that is hardly helping the cause you are attempting to achieve. I agree with the trial but please consider the areas which you choose, as in my opinion there requires to be more thought into the areas you choose. I agree its a good strategy for climate change. Minimises chemicals in the ground Provides wildlife shelter Minimises chemicals that my dog can ingest Provides my dog with better, funner areas to explore Adds to the visual beauty of the Inch I enjoy the sight of the wild flowers, but most importantly I think this plan is a good way to raise awareness of how we can have managed, insect friendly sites within public areas. I would be happy to see greater areas of the park devoted to pollinator friendly habitats but am enthusiastic about the way the existing ones are laid out, providing corridors for this precious wildlife. I like the idea and hope larger areas and more trees will be planned in the future Makes an excellent natural looking addition to a beautiful but relatively sterile parklands.
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Having noticed the changes during the summer months in the South Inch, it was hopeful to see areas that had been left unmown and for wildflowers to be growing where once the grass was cut. I noticed how the insects congregated in theses areas and I was pleased to see that biodiversity was being encouraged. It feels important that this work should continue and even expand in future years.
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Lesser South Inch Perth Plot code Ward Biodiversity Improvements from Trial Reports Comments from the consultation Current Maintenance Regime PSI0004 12 3 different plant species present and increased number of butterflies More wildlife, more wildflowers, less maintenance costs - win win win! No maintenance being carried out on the selected area. It is being left to naturalise. It looks an absolute mess I have just visited the South Inch and was dismayed to see the disgraceful state of the inch, especially the small inch. I read your notice and would like to say your initiative for managed wildlife trials is unacceptable. The inches were gifted to the people of Perth and the present state that the small inch is in is terrible. Large patches of long grass and weeds filled with litter. I see no insects or wild flowers. It looks like waste ground and not attractive to visitors whatsoever. Perhaps it would be an idea to post these initiatives on social media and receive more feedback from the people of Perth and Kinross. I sincerely hope that this trial is not a success.