Blue Heart Verges: Have Your Say
Following the article in the recent BRA newsletter, Surrey County Council has now launched its public consultation on the future of Blue Heart (BH) wildlife verges: https://surrey-blue-heart-verges.commonplace.is/
Bookham Blooms & Nature have reviewed the proposals and would like to share their perspective to help residents respond.
We’re pleased to see SCC reaffirming their commitment to Blue Heart verges rather than stepping away from them. The results of this consultation will shape Surrey’s mowing strategy as the county moves toward Unitary Authorities next April.
However, several elements of the new guidance raise concerns.
Key Points from Bookham Blooms & Nature
Positive intent, aligned with Surrey’s Local Nature Recovery Strategy The direction of travel is welcome and supports Surrey’s wider nature recovery goals. https://www.surreycc.gov.uk/land-planning-and-development/local-nature-recovery-strategy-lnrs
Two main areas of consultation
i. Who can apply for BH verges SCC now only accepts applications from community groups or groups of neighbours, not individuals. Many areas do not have established groups — so why prevent individual residents from applying?
ii. Minimum verge size (2.5m x 10m)
Evidence from Bookham shows that small verges can be just as rich in wildflowers.
SCC suggests smaller verges attract complaints because they look “missed” by contractors. Proper “framing” — as required in SCC’s own process — would avoid this.
SCC cites the Lawton principle to justify minimum sizes, but Lawton focuses on connectivity, not minimum patch dimensions. Even tiny wildflower patches (e.g., 1m²) support pollinators. Surrey Wildlife Trust has confirmed that Lawton does not support SCC’s minimum‑size argument.
The process is not simpler Despite claims of simplification, the new system introduces more barriers and remains complicated. Surrey Wildlife Trust has echoed these concerns in their own response.
Questions You’ll Be Asked in the Consultation
You may find the following helpful when preparing your responses:
How do you feel about limiting applications to groups rather than individuals?
How do you feel about the proposed minimum verge sizes?
What aspects of the guidance do you like, and why?
What aspects do you not like, and why?
Additional Points You May Wish to Raise
The scheme is positive but needs to be run more effectively.
The application process should be simpler and more welcoming.
The consultation platform is designed for reporting problems — there should also be a way to leave positive comments and support.
If you would like more information, please contact: Diane and Steve Poole bookhambloomsandnature@gmail.com
