Everyone is invited to Green Roots on the Meadow for a free, public event to celebrate the flourishing meadow planted in September 2023.
Green Roots on the Meadow, a vibrant project initiated in September 2023, has been a collaborative effort to enhance urban green spaces in West Bromwich. Led by Multistory, in partnership with Sandwell Council, the Birmingham & Black Country Wildlife Trust and New Square West Bromwich, the meadow planting event saw enthusiastic participation from volunteers dedicated to fostering biodiversity in the heart of the community.
A public celebratory event is planned for Saturday 7 September 2024, 10am-2pm behind Primark in New Square shopping centre, West Bromwich (on the corner of Walsall Street, opposite Tiny Tots Academy). The day will be filled with activities, learning, and joy as communities gather on the very site where the meadow is planted. In addition there will be other artist performances and activities to celebrate the wider Green Roots Urban Greening project that taking place in Sandwell.
Here’s what to expect:
Meadow Cutting
The Birmingham & Black Country Wildlife Trust will lead the first meadow cutting since it was planted, a crucial task to manage tough grasses and promote the propagation of wildflowers. They will conduct two 15-minute demonstrations, showcasing traditional cutting techniques and inviting attendees to try their hand at meadow cutting. This hands-on experience is a unique opportunity to learn about meadow maintenance and the importance of biodiversity.
Seed Scattering and Giveaways
In addition to the cutting demonstrations, the Birmingham & Black Country Wildlife Trust will bring yellow rattle seeds – a vital species for meadow health, to scatter with attendees. Participants can take part and receive free seed packets to encourage wildflower planting at home.
Live Performances and Family Activities
The event will also feature a special performance by the inclusive theatre company, Open Theatre, renowned for their engaging and accessible productions. Additionally, there will be a live rendition of the ‘Sounding the West Bromwich Way’ map created by Lee Mackenzie, Lorenzo Prati, Multistory and Sandwell Visually Impaired community members, where local musicians will bring to life the sounds and stories of West Bromwich.
Families can enjoy a variety of free, fun and family friendly activities designed to entertain and educate children about nature and conservation including table-top planting with Zoey Sibanda and art and craft with Ruby Lewis. There will also be live music by Bostin’ Brass
Delicious free food and refreshments will be available between 11:30am and 1:30pm (or until they run out!) by Percy’s Hotdogs.
Councillor Peter Hughes, Sandwell Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Infrastructure, said: “The Green Roots on the Meadow Event is not just a look back at what we’ve achieved but a step forward in our ongoing commitment to preserving nature in our urban space.
“I encourage everyone to celebrate the beauty of our local environment and the power of community action. This is a real reminder that when we work together as one we can achieve wonderful results and create beautiful spaces for everyone to enjoy.”
Alice O’Rourke, Programme Manager at Multistory, said: “We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible success of our Green Roots project. This event on the meadow is a testament to the power of community collaboration and our shared commitment to creating vibrant and accessible green spaces in urban areas across Sandwell. We look forward to continuing this important work and seeing the positive impact on both nature and the local community.”
For more information, visit Multistory’s website.
