Durham Wildlife Trust has launched an innovative project to create a green screen around primary schools in Sunderland – by planting a kilometre of hedges.
The scheme is designed to create vital habitats for wildlife on school boundaries, while encouraging children to get closer to nature.
The initiative benefitted from nearly £4,000 of funding from Northern Gas Networks, through the gas distribution company’s Northern Green Networks programme, which provides financial support for grass-roots environmental projects.
Education Officer, Kirsty Pollard said: “Sunderland has more than 70 primary schools surrounded by fencing. By working with the children to plant hedges along these boundaries, we can provide thriving habitats for wildlife, as well as improving the appearance of these sites.
“Hedges have been called Britain’s largest nature reserve – as they play host to so many different types of insects, animals, flowers and berries. Our thanks to Northern Gas Networks for making this possible.”
More than 17 primary schools have already taken part in the planting scheme, including children from St Benet’s RC Primary School with many more set to follow.
Duncan Lawton from Northern Gas Networks said: “We’re thrilled that we have been able to help out with this ambitious scheme to make Sunderland that little bit greener, and encourage children to get back to nature. Our engineers have a regular presence in the area, so we try to support worthwhile community projects where we can.
“This is terrific project, which will leave a lasting legacy for local communities.”
