What is the Open Space and Biodiversity Policy?
Ipswich Borough Council is in the process of updating its Open Space and Biodiversity Policy. This strategic document is designed to guide the development and management of public open spaces and biodiversity initiatives. It outlines the Council’s approach to maintaining and enhancing parks, natural habitats, and green areas, ensuring they meet community needs and support local wildlife.
Purpose
The updated Open Space and Biodiversity Policy/Strategy will provide the Council with an overarching document that gives clear justification and direction for the provision and management of public open space.
Actions within the Policy are being delivered via the service Operational Plan, in consultation with stakeholders.
The Council’s use of peat free compost and soil
Since 2019, Ipswich Borough Council has been phasing out the use of peat free compost in all landscaping schemes and peat free plant procurement is now embedded in the Council’s strategies. The Council works with suppliers that only select plants which are grown in peat free compost.
Our volunteer groups use locally sourced peat free compost when growing plants for our parks and we have almost completely eliminated peat products from our parks and landscape schemes. Plant donations and allotment holders are not however under this restriction.