A SOUTHAMPTON woman is calling on the city council to let grass verges become mini-meadows where flowers and wildlife can flourish.

Melanie Clark from Lordswood is urging the council to join others across the country who have successfully trialled such schemes.

The 41-year-old believes the idea needs "serious consideration" as it would not only be good for wildlife but would also save money.

According to conservation charity Plantlife, the UK had lost 97% of its wildflower meadows in less than a century - with roadside verges particularly hard hit.

However road-side meadows provide nectar, flowers and seeds that are food sources for many pollinating insects, birds and even some mammals.

Melanie said: "I care about the environment and am concerned for future generations. There are plenty of other things the money could be spent on, for example, roads and bin collections.

"Just think how wonderful it would look in Southampton."

"I cannot believe something that could help our environment and save a significant amount of money isn't being implemented in Southampton, its a win-win in my book."

Eastleigh Borough Council has already done a trial planting along Allbrook Way which they report has received positive feedback.

A council spokesperson said:

“It was clear that the wildflowers would brighten up verges and roundabouts and encourage more bees and other pollinating insects into the area, which in turn would increase the bird population.

"Two verges have been planted since then and one more is in the pipeline, with the current focus on the north of the borough.

"We’ve been overwhelmed by the feedback and due to their popularity we’ll look to include more for next year.“

Rotherham Borough Council has saved an estimated £23,000 a year in mowing costs by planting an eight-mile "river of flowers" along verges and roundabouts throughout the town.

Deputy leader and cabinet member for place and transport, Cllr Jacqui Rayment said:

“The council has designated teams to mow and maintain grass across the city which, based on feedback, is the highest priority for the local public.

"There are numerous areas of grass meadow type management which are beneficial for insects and there is also an aspiration to introduce more areas of wildflowers to support pollinators.

"We are currently investigating the best way to achieve this, whilst continuing to meet public requests to ensure local areas are well maintained.”