Parish councils in Swindon have attracted criticism for not taking part in a month-long project aimed at protecting biodiversity and nature.

The charity Plantlife launched No Mow May last year to encourage people to let their grass grow to invite wildlife into their gardens.

Central Swindon North Parish Council and South Swindon Parish Council did not take part in this year, but Swindon Borough Council has.

One resident, who did not want to be named, was disappointed to find the grass had been mowed around the recreation area between Ferndale Road and Great Western Way.

He said: “I was horrified to see that the council has mowed the grass and the thousands of wildflowers which were there before.

“They did not mow in May last year, as a result there was an abundance of wildflowers. It’s supposed to support wildlife (bees, butterflies, birds, etc) which has diminished over the years.” 

A spokesperson for Swindon Borough Council said: "We are exercising No Mow May where we can, but there are some areas that we need to cut to ensure there is sufficient visibility for motorists at road junctions." 

According to the Plantlife website, a healthy lawn with long grass and wildflowers not only benefits wildlife but can also tackle pollution and lock away carbon below the ground. 

Central Swindon North Parish Council said: “Great Western Way roundabouts to Cirencester Way have wildflowers planted which are currently in full bloom and look fantastic. Also, the parish council now manage two large meadows in Raybrook and Moredon which are annually bailed to ensure the widest species can develop. We work in partnership with Wiltshire Wildlife to support these projects.

“The residential street grass cutting this year started so late due to the unprecedented wet spring, the grass was thick and challenging to cut. Leaving these grass areas a further month would have made later cuts a greater challenge.

“Most verges and amenity areas are cut back with areas kept aside for wildflowers. Residents have fed back to us that they value and generally expect verges and grass outside their homes to be maintained on the understanding some key managed areas set aside for longer periods uncut.”

A spokesperson from South Swindon Parish Council said: “South Swindon Parish Council hasn’t taken part in No Mow May, however we do have 12 designated re-wilding areas that we maintain to encourage biodiversity.”