Protecting pollinators across Argyll

Wilson Road in Lochgilphead, Inveraray’s Sinclair Avenue and the bus turning circle at Tarbert are also on the list of spaces that will be managed during the rest of this month and June by Argyll and Bute Council so they can be allowed to bloom and pollinators can thrive, benefitting the environment.

It is all part of Plantlife, a campaign calling on gardeners and green space managers not to mow their lawns during the month of May. The international conversation charity works to enhance, protect and restore wild plants essential for pollinators.

The sites the Council has chosen to support the campaign are easily mowed and recovered later in the season to take other required work into account.

In future years, the emphasis will be on working in partnership with schools, local organisations and the Council’s biodiversity officer to find permanent sites and planting that will encourage pollinators to thrive in Argyll and Bute.

Permanent planting displays, including herbaceous borders, have the potential to provide a habitat to attract and maintain the pollinator activity so vital to our ecosystem and agriculture.

Councillor Luna Martin who is Policy Lead for Climate Change, Biodiversity and Gaelic, said: “Supporting pollinators means supporting communities. Bees, butterflies and other pollinating species create thriving gardens, crops, and natural spaces we rely on for health and wellbeing. When we create habitats for pollinators, we protect biodiversity and strengthen local food security.

“In Argyll and Bute, we are fortunate enough to be surrounded by luscious landscapes, however climate change is already impacting weather and reducing habitats pollinators depend on. By creating pollinator-friendly areas, we are taking meaningful action to protect our natural environment.”

And councillor John Armour who is Policy Lead for Roads, Transport and Amenity Services added: “This approach balances managing the Council’s estate, which our communities expect, with protecting pollinators and their habitats. It’s important work and we have to get it right for our environment and our people. I look forward to community collaboration to ensure we take this forward successfully.”

Other pollinator sites for 2026 include Calgary cemetery on Mull, Frews Park on Colonsay, the front of Bruichladdich and Portnahaven road verges on Islay, then Bengullion Road and the old paddling pool area in Campbeltown.