Nailpassers' Corner
The COVID-19 pandemic restricted travel and, as a result, many people were rediscovering spaces in their neighbourhoods. For Ellie, James and their son Thomas, this was Nailpassers’ Corner in Redditch, a fairly small patch of amenity grassland neighbouring a road junction. Although people frequently walked through the space, Ellie noticed that there was no notable leisure use and with its extensive management, no value for wildlife. As the site was nestled amongst residential areas, roads and shops, they realised that there was a real opportunity to transform Nailpassers’ Corner in a way that was meaningful to the local community but also sympathetic to nature.
Unsure where to start, in April 2023 Ellie reached out to Yasmina, the Trust’s Nextdoor Nature Officer, after seeing a piece in our members’ magazine about community projects. Yaz was able to provide advice on seeking permissions from the local council and the best methods of getting local people involved. After meeting people at Headless Cross Community Orchard Apple Day event and inviting them to a social event at Nailpassers’ Corner, Ellie and her family found several other residents eager to help with the project.
From leaving patches of grass a bit longer to building a bug hotel, Nailpassers’ Corner is now slowly becoming wilder and providing more habitats for wildlife, especially for invertebrates. In addition, the visible presence of locals on site for periodic work parties seems to have deterred local dog walkers from leaving dog waste and litter. There are plans to make the space more functional for local residents by introducing herb and vegetable beds. Long term, Ellie and her family hope that this will create a greater sense of community and encourage healthier and more sustainable living
Keep persevering, it will be worth it in the long run
Ellie, James and Thomas acknowledge that some aspects of this project have been challenging; gaining permissions from the council and arranging times for the group to meet have been particularly time consuming. However, through patience and perseverance, they have overcome these barriers and are pleased with what has been achieved. Not only has the small space been enhanced for wildlife but they have also brought people together and provided a sense of purpose in their local community. With reports of loneliness now higher than pre-pandemic levels, the social value of this work cannot be overlooked.
Keep it wild!
