Argyll and Bute Council will allow selected green spaces across the region to grow and bloom during May and June as part of efforts to support pollinators and protect biodiversity.

The initiative supports the Plantlife campaign encouraging gardeners and land managers not to mow lawns during May to help bees, butterflies and other pollinating species thrive.

The council said designated protected green spaces across Argyll and Bute will be left to bloom naturally before being cut and recovered later in the season.

The approach is intended to balance estate management with environmental protection while creating healthier habitats for pollinators.

The council also said future plans will focus on working with schools, local organisations and biodiversity officers to identify permanent pollinator friendly planting sites across Argyll and Bute.

Permanent planting displays and herbaceous borders are expected to play a growing role in attracting pollinators and supporting wider biodiversity and agriculture.

Luna Martin 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.”

John Armour 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.”

Sites included in this year’s pollinator programme range from Burns Park in Cardross and Gare Road in Rosneath to Calgary cemetery, Ganavan car park and Glengallon Road in Oban.

Other locations include Rhubodach, Portnahaven road verges, Sinclair Avenue in Inveraray, Wilson Road in Lochgilphead and several areas across Campbeltown.

The council says the initiative forms part of wider environmental work aimed at protecting habitats and supporting nature recovery across Argyll and Bute.