'End of an era' as bulbs to be removed from Newport beauty spot
Volunteers will dig up thousands of bulbs from a Newport beauty spot tomorrow ahead of land development, to relocate them elsewhere.
Newport in Bloom chair Karen Claxton said the "sad task" of removing the bulbs, which have been planted around Hutchison's Way over many years, would mark "the end of an era".
"Volunteers from Newport in Bloom are removing thousands of bulbs to be re-sited in other project areas around Newport," she explained.
"This well-used and much-loved area has been a lovely entrance to one of the accesses to Hutchison's Way. The area was a huge 'In Bloom' project in 2007/8, when Newport in Bloom joined forces with Telford & Wrekin Council environmental maintenance, Newport Town Council, Shropshire Wildlife Trust and other agencies to create a local beauty spot.
"Through sponsorship and their own fundraising the group were able to change this once-neglected site into an enhanced area for wildlife and an attractive walk for residents. Thousands of crocus bulbs, narcissi, camassia, muscari and wood anemones were planted, as well as native primroses and trees to enhance and encourage wildlife.
"The entrance was opened by Mrs Hutchison who led 150 volunteers, children and local people on the walk to Lilleshall.
"Although we are saying goodbye to this area due to imminent development, Newport In Bloom are removing the bulbs to be re-sited in other well-loved areas around the town. This is a massive undertaking and we are very grateful for the support of local people in enabling it to happen."
The land at Hutchison's Way will be affected by development of up to 350 new houses, in a scheme off Station Road that has been granted planning permission.
