Pollinator Pathways Project
This group of volunteers are building pollinator highways through the city. Not through policy. Not through waiting. Through people showing up and doing the work. This is what collective action looks like.
What happens when ordinary people decide their neighbourhood deserves better? In Bristol, they're creating pollinator-friendly green corridors—one action at a time.
Meet the 'Pollinator Pathways Project' - a group of residents in Bristol transforming alleyways based on recommendations from the public. The project, set up by Flora Beverley in Bristol two years ago after a chronic illness left her unable to spend as much time in nature, aims to create pollinator-friendly green corridors throughout Bristol’s urban areas.
As Flora says, "We believe that small changes on a neighbourhood level can lead to powerful collective impact."
To get started Flora received a £ 250 grant from the Knowle West Alliance to convert one of the alleyways into a more wildlife-friendly space.
" I organised the first weekend in September, and we got masses of help from, not only volunteers, but people donating planters and plants, too”
The Pollinator Pathways Project is a community-led initiative that transforms alleyways into mini wildlife corridors and community spaces.
How can I get involved?
Volunteer ops are shared on this page - they are only every few months, but any volunteering is hugely appreciated!
Can I nominate an alleyway?
You can also find our more about the project and nominate an alley for clean up and planting on the project's website.
Who maintains the project/waters, etc.?
The project is done in collaboration with each local community, which creates a sense of ownership over the work. After we leave, it’s maintained by the people who live in the area. We’ve only had one plant casualty out of hundreds!
Why remove ‘weeds’ if you’re trying to support pollinators?
This project balances the needs of the community & council with the needs of nature. Any plants blocking access have to be removed, not just because paths need to be useable, but also because they will be sprayed with weed killer if they aren’t manually removed. We remove only what’s necessary, and are actively trying to change the council’s policy on weed spraying, but change takes time.
Why murals?
Bristol is known for its strong art and street art culture, and murals are a celebration of that. They also showcase local talent (all the artists are Bristol-based) and brighter walls are also safer in the dark.
READY TO ACT?
This group of volunteers are building pollinator highways through the city. Not through policy. Not through waiting. Through people showing up and doing the work. This is what collective action looks like. Could you do something similar where you live?
