Chadkirk Meadows in Stockport have been selected as one of only 60 sites across the country to be part of the Coronation Meadows Project to commemorate the 60th anniversary of The Queen’s Coronation.
Chadkirk Meadows were selected by Plantlife in partnership with the Wildlife Trust and Rare Breeds Survival Trust and championed by The Prince of Wales. Pat Baker, Chair of Friends of Chadkirk Group, attended the launch event at The Prince of Wales’ Highgrove Estate last month.
Ragged Robin flowers in Chadkirk Meadows.
Around 97% of meadows in the UK have been lost over the past 75 years.
Chadkirk Meadows, within Chadkirk Country Estate near Romiley, are designated as a Site of Biological Importance. Since being managed by Stockport Council’s Greenspace team, in partnership with Friends of Chadkirk Group, the fields have been developed from improved pasture with low levels of biodiversity to a species-rich habitat which includes great crested newts, six-spot burnet moth, common blue butterfly, and plants such as cowslip, selfheal and yellow rattle.
Councillor Stuart Bodsworth, Executive Member for Communities and Sustainability, said:
“Congratulations to all involved in the sustainable development of Chadkirk Meadows which is a jewel in Stockport’s green crown. The project identifies a flagship meadow in each area of the country for the public to enjoy. As a Local Nature Reserve, Chadkirk Meadows is a valuable nature and greenspace resource for the local community and visitors to the estate.”
The meadows are used as ‘donor meadows’ to create new meadows on another site on the estate. ‘Green hay’, which is cut slightly earlier than usual so that more seed is retained, is taken from the donor site and spread onto the new site to seed the new area. The project aims to increase this rare and valuable wild flower habitat which is home to a variety of wildlife including bees and butterflies.
Chadkirk Country Estate, which also contains the part 9th century Chadkirk Chapel, is accessible off the A627 Otterspool Road. It is well used by the public and hosts community events held throughout the year. The popular Chadkirk Festival takes place this year on 28th July from 12 noon – 5pm.