SELECTED green spaces in Bute and Cowal will be left to bloom during May and June to help support bees, butterflies and other pollinators.
Argyll and Bute Council has designated a number of protected grass areas across the area as part of its support for Plantlife’s campaign, which encourages gardeners and green space managers to avoid mowing during May.
The campaign aims to give wild plants the chance to grow, providing vital food and habitat for pollinating species.
In Bute and Cowal, the chosen sites are Rhubodach, The Serpentine, the far end of Shinty Park, Bullwood Road on the seaward side past the old quarry, the grass area behind the Queen’s Hall, and Lazaretto Point in Sandbank on the seaward side.
The council said the selected areas can be easily mowed and recovered later in the season, allowing other maintenance work to be carried out when needed.
In future years, the authority hopes to work with schools, local organisations and its biodiversity officer to identify permanent pollinator-friendly sites and planting schemes.
Permanent planting displays, including herbaceous borders, could help provide long-term habitats to attract and maintain pollinator activity, which is vital for ecosystems and agriculture.
Councillor Luna Martin, policy lead for climate change, biodiversity and Gaelic, said: “Supporting pollinators means supporting communities.
“Bees, butterflies and other pollinating species create thriving gardens, crops, and natural spaces we rely on for health and wellbeing.
“When we create habitats for pollinators, we protect biodiversity and strengthen local food security.
“In Argyll and Bute, we are fortunate enough to be surrounded by luscious landscapes, however climate change is already impacting weather and reducing habitats pollinators depend on.
“By creating pollinator-friendly areas, we are taking meaningful action to protect our natural environment.”
Councillor John Armour, policy lead for roads, transport and amenity services, said the approach aimed to balance estate management with environmental protection.
He said: “This approach balances managing the council’s estate, which our communities expect, with protecting pollinators and their habitats.
“It’s important work and we have to get it right for our environment and our people.
“I look forward to community collaboration to ensure we take this forward successfully.”
