Last year we consulted our Charlton Kings residents on proposals to create a biodiverse environmental area on the south section of Grange Field. Following the positive response to the plan, implementation is on-going!

With an emphasis on sustainability and eco-consciousness, the Charlton Kings Parish Council hopes to create a community-focussed environmental area, incorporating grasses and wildflowers with more sculpted areas of pathways and raised beds, housing pollinator-friendly and sensory plants. The area will be accessible via a porous pathway leading off the original all-weather path at various points. Construction of the area and its various features, will be centred on sustainability and as far as possible be made suitable for volunteer and community involvement.

A: March 2024 - 3 multi stemmed Betula Pendula Silver Birch trees have been planted. In line with our environmental philosophy these are a native species and were provided by a local plant nursery.

B: April 2024 - Some of our councillors and their families planted a bed of native hedging shrubs in the top end corner to encourage further biodiversity in the area Thank you so much Councillor Pat Palmer, Councillor Russel Grimshaw and Andy and Matt, husbands of Councillor Felicity Parnham and Councillor Laura Lock! Wonderful team work!

C: April 2024 - Our local Air Training Corps Cadets have helped us plant a variety of native species hedging around the perimeter fence of their building. Thank you so much folks!

D: April-May 2024 - 🚧 Work is underway to create a brand new pathway on Grange Field!

This pathway is designed to ensure access for all residents, making it easier and more convenient to navigate our beautiful field and its features. Whether you're walking, jogging, pushing a stroller, or using a mobility aid, this pathway will be accessible to everyone.Please bear with us during the construction phase as we strive to enhance accessibility and inclusivity within our community.

Charlton Kings Parish Council, has recently overseen the installation of a dead hedge at Grange Field, a green space leased from Cheltenham Borough Council.

This project is part of the ongoing efforts to enhance the area for the community and promote biodiversity.

The dead hedge was created last week by local residents Rose Lennard and John Coates, with support from parish councillors.

Located within the developing wildlife garden, this feature serves as a vital habitat for a variety of species, contributing to the council's commitment to environmental sustainability. Watch Rose's video about the dead hedge below or on Youtube

Dead hedges are essentially natural barriers made from cut branches, twigs, and other plant material. They not only offer shelter and food for birds, insects, and small mammals but also help to recycle garden waste and reduce the carbon footprint by avoiding the need for transporting waste to landfill.

The dead hedge is just one of many improvements made to Grange Field over the past few years, which also include new play equipment and a new path. The wildlife garden, still under development, will further enhance the area by creating a haven for pollinators and other beneficial creatures.

For those interested in creating their own dead hedge at home, we've prepared a simple guide to help you get started. Read our how-to guide:

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2020
• Consultation forms delivered locally and available through website and social media platforms
• Charlton Kings in Bloom volunteers plant bulbs around some trees in Grange Field

NOVEMBER 2020
• Returned consultation forms analysed and results presented to Charlton Kings Parish Council
• Fencing erected along perimeter posts to protect new hedging
• Beech hedging and 2 trees planted during national Plant a Tree Week

DECEMBER 2020
• Action plan created for approval by Charlton Kings Parish Council

JANUARY 2021
• Approved action plan shared via website and social media
• CBC approached for approval/planning consent for the new initiatives

SPRING/SUMMER 2021
• Application for grants
• Hold Summer Fayre (COVID conditions permitting)

AUTUMN/WINTER 2021
• Construction of agreed fitness/activity equipment

WINTER 2021/SPRING 2022
• Launch of natural landscaping projects

OCTOBER 2022: Consultation with residents
After we asked a local landscape architect to produce plans showing an environmental planting scheme at the southern end of Grange Field, the draft designs were submitted to the local residents of Charlton Kings:
- Plans were displayed at our Autumn Fayre on Saturday, 24th September 2022 and had a positive response from residents
- Plans were available in the Charlton Kings Parish Council for everyone to view and provide feedback using the hard copy "feedback forms" available.
- A "drop-in" session took place at Moosh Cafe in Church Piece, Charlton Kings on Wednesday 28th September when residents could get further information about the proposals, ask questions and provide their comments.
- Our local residents were also encouraged to share their feedback and ask their question by email or telephone.