Work has recently commenced on an exciting new project, thanks to The Nature Hubs Fund!
Recent polling from Hubbub has revealed that 78% of people feel better when spending time around nature. Despite this, 36% of the UK’s population spend less than an hour a week in nature. The Nature Hubs Fund is designed to help change this, by bringing people closer to different species and habitats that they may not have the opportunity to observe.
The project involves the re-purposing an underutilised area of The Deep’s car park, which is currently covered with gravel, and a limited number of non-native trees and bushes. Our goal is to transform the space into a richly planted bog garden and stumpery, using a variety of wetland and shade-loving plants. By strategically planting native flora, this will encourage native fauna to grow and serve to increase the habitat heterogeneity of the area. In turn, this will help to promote species diversity and act as a ‘stepping stone’ habitat, to allow native species to move between the fragmented habitats found within surrounding urban areas.
As the grounds around The Deep’s site are surrounded by public walkways, the bog garden will provide an opportunity to showcase our local wildlife to residents, passers-by and visitors alike. Plans are in place to include engaging signage and interpretation around the green space, encouraging thousands of people to consider how they can make a difference to biodiversity.
Over the coming weeks, you may be able to spot Deep Crew from across different departments getting involved in the project. Not only will the new garden help bring visitors closer to nature, but also provides a chance for all our Crew members to volunteer in an enriching experience. As research has shown that spending time around nature is beneficial for both physical and mental health, it’s important that as many people as possible have the chance to enjoy the new green space.
Keep an eye on our social media channels and website for progress updates!
Notes to Editors:
The Nature Hubs Fund is funded by the 5p Cup Charge and is part of Hubbub and Starbucks’ wider ambition to build stronger, greener communities across the UK. This fund will improve access and connection to nature in the communities Starbucks serves, by creating green spaces within a 5km radius of Starbucks’ stores.
