Ongo creates community green space in Crowle

A large underused green space on Godnow Road, Crowle, has been transformed into a growing biodiversity site as part of Ongo’s work to enhance local environments and create nature‑friendly communities. Previously an open grassed field with no formal planting, the area offered a unique blank canvas for improvement. While the space has long been enjoyed by residents as an informal play area—with wooden football goal posts in place for decades—there had been no investment in biodiversity features until now. To preserve its value as a recreational space, the play area and walking routes across the field were protected throughout the project. Careful planning ensured that new planting would not encroach on gardens or existing paths. In total, the project involved 47 newly planted trees, 372 pollinating shrubs, 4 bug hotels, 4 bird boxes, along with new educational and wayfinding signage. Equans, one of Ongo’s largest suppliers, played a key role in the project through their social value commitments. They funded and installed new, durable football goal posts to replace the old wooden ones, helping maintain the field’s long‑standing community use. They also supported installation of the eco-friendly features. Looking ahead, Ongo will also introduce managed ‘no mow’ areas. These longer‑grass habitats offer major ecological benefits, such as supporting pollinators, boosting wildflower growth, and creating shelter for insects and small mammals. Residents were consulted before works began, and feedback since has been overwhelmingly positive. One said: “I am delighted to hear something is to be done with the field, the Bug Hotel and the No-Mow areas sound like a fabulous idea, thank you.” Another commented: “We think this is an excellent idea to make the space usable by residents and nature friendly.” Andrea Morley, Sustainability Manager at Ongo said: “It’s been fantastic to see how well the field is being used by the community. Seeing people outdoors, learning about nature, playing, and enjoying the space is exactly what we hoped this project would achieve. “Alongside creating new habitats and boosting biodiversity, it’s equally important that our green spaces continue to bring people together and support wellbeing. This project does both, and we’re delighted with the response so far. “This project supports our wider environmental commitments, contributing to a healthier local ecosystem and there is still further opportunity to enhance the area in the future.” To find out more about Ongo and their environmental and sustainability work, follow them on social media or head to their website: www.ongo.co.uk.