A WILDFLOWER meadow in the heart of Haslemere has gone down a treat with residents, many of whom now take detours to enjoy the “stunning” display.

Waverley Borough Council’s parks and countryside team joined forces with its environmental parking services to transform a broad grassy verge beside the footpath between Tanners Lane car park and West Street into a riot of colour, with help from Hampshire-based specialist, Wildflower Turf.

Not everyone realised initially their borough council was responsible for the surprise attraction, but early admirer, Haslemere Natural History Society secretary Judith Kusel, said: “Full marks to Waverley – it is so stunning.”

WBC parking services deputy manager Matt Nicholls said: “We had some money in the budget and wanted to improve our more visible car park areas.

“This is a fantastic location with the footpath running past.

“It’s been so successful here, we are hoping we can replicate it around the borough.”

Parks and countryside contract monitoring officer Andy Webb said: “It’s just fabulous. I’m very pleased how well it has flowered and delighted with all the complimentary feedback we have had.

“It also encourages wildlife. We will cut it in September and leave the area for four or five days to allow the seed to disperse. Hopefully, it will be just as good next year.”

In addition to planting a wildflower meadow at Tanners Lane, Waverley’s other Haslemere car park environmental improvements include hedging works and improvements to the bank at newly resurfaced High Street car park, filling in a hedge, removing invasive plants and wildflower planting at Weydown Road car park and removing invasive plants at Chestnut Avenue car park.

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Pictures by

KATIE HILL and

RUTH MARSHALL