We manage approximately 2,500 hectares of greenspace across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole. Grass areas are managed differently depending on their location and use. Some areas are mown regularly, while others are left to grow.

We regularly cut the grass in areas that are used for recreational activities, such as formal parks and sports pitches. Some roadside verges are also cut regularly to keep sight lines clear at junctions.

Grass that is mown regularly is cut on a set schedule. Once a round is completed, cutting starts again from the beginning. Diverting mowers from their rounds is not practical, as it delays cutting in other areas.

Weather conditions and resource availability can affect the time it takes to complete a round, which is approximately every eight weeks.

During periods of rapid growth (spring, autumn, or wet summers), grass may grow longer between cuts.

We strive to complete cutting rounds as quickly as possible. We continually review and adjust our operations to minimize the impact of budget constraints on our service.

Meadows

We leave some areas to grow during spring and summer, these are managed as meadows.

Meadows are cut in late summer or early autumn, but we may also:

• cut the edges of meadows where needed
• cut informal footpaths, picnic areas, and recreation areas in larger meadows
• remove clippings from the surface

Benefits of meadows

Grassland meadows have huge ecological importance. They provide habitats for all sorts of wildlife, a typical natural meadow can support over 1,400 species of invertebrates and many other plants and animals.

Natural habitats also form part of our response to the climate and ecological emergency,

The roots and soil of meadows capture and store atmospheric carbon (Carbon sequestration) which helps to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

When we allow flowers to bloom and grasses to grow tall, it creates a variety of colours and textures. Less common plants such as bee orchids and oxeye daisies have the chance to flower and reproduce.

We always aim to manage our green spaces for the benefit of people and wildlife and focus our resources where they are most needed. 

We work hard to achieve that considered balance, working with resident’s feedback as we care for a wide range of greenspaces.  

Low fire risk

The risk of fire is extremely low compared to the significant benefits of allowing grass areas to grow.

Hayfever

It’s difficult to tell whether hayfever symptoms are made worse because of areas of uncut grass – high pollen levels are the result of pollen being released from many different plant species, including trees and garden plants.

Ticks and snakes

Ticks live in some areas of long grass, heath and woodland. It’s always a good idea to check yourself and your pets if you have been walking in any of these areas.

Adders are rarely seen away from the heathlands in the BCP area. They are wary of humans and will often move away from anyone approaching when they feel vibrations in the ground.