Residents across the Stroud district are being invited to tear up unwanted paving slabs and replace them with plants as part of a new initiative designed to help tackle flooding, boost wildlife and make neighbourhoods greener.
The Tile Whipping campaign, led by Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust and supported by Stroud District Council, encourages people to remove patios, paving and other hard surfaces and replace them with soil, flowers, shrubs or gravel that allow rainwater to soak naturally into the ground.
To make it easier for residents to get involved, Stroud District Council is funding a free collection service for up to 2m² of paving slabs and rubble removed from eligible properties.
The scheme is being trialled at a limited number of homes in Stroud and surrounding communities, including Stonehouse, Leonard Stanley, Nailsworth and Minchinhampton, with organisers hoping to demonstrate the environmental benefits of de-paving gardens.
The campaign takes its name from the Dutch word tegelwippen, inspired by a hugely successful movement in the Netherlands that has seen millions of paving slabs replaced with plants to create greener, more wildlife-friendly communities.
Replacing hard surfaces with planting can have a significant impact. Instead of rushing into drains during heavy rain, water can soak naturally into the ground, helping to reduce pressure on drainage systems, lower the risk of surface water flooding, replenish groundwater supplies and improve water quality.
Greener gardens also provide vital habitats for bees, butterflies and birds, while helping to cool towns and neighbourhoods during periods of hot weather.
Councillor Martin Pearcy, Chair of Stroud District Council’s Environment Committee, said: “Even a small change in your garden can make a big difference. By removing a few paving slabs and replacing them with plants, residents can help support wildlife, improve drainage and make their outdoor space greener and more attractive.
“One garden alone may seem a small step, but if many residents take part, together we can create a network of wildlife-friendly spaces across the district and help reduce the impact of heavy rainfall.
“We’re pleased to be working with Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust and funding the free collection service to help more people get involved.”
Tabitha George, Waterscapes Project Co-ordinator at Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust, said: “We’re asking you to take a small step to help wildlife in Stroud, and to reduce the risk of surface water flooding in your area.
“By working together, taking up one slab, planting one flower, we can make a huge difference for the future of Stroud.”
The project supports Stroud District Council’s ambition to expand the district’s Nature Recovery Network, with residents encouraged to play their part by transforming even small areas of paving into wildlife-friendly spaces.
Those interested can find out more, check their eligibility and sign up for the free collection service through Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust.
Residents can find advice on how to de-pave their garden or driveway, check eligibility and sign up for the free collection service: www.gloucestershirewildlifetrust.co.uk/depaving
