Help nature thrive by our roadsides

Have your say on new guidance for Blue Heart verges

Blue Heart verges are simple bu effective ways to improve biodiversity. They turn roadside verges and public spaces into an area where nature can thrive. This is done by limiting grass cutting to once a year, allowing insects to return, flowers bloom and let nature to repair itself and thrive once again.

We are now giving residents the opportunity to share their views on the Blue Heart verges and would like to hear from you.

What is a Blue Heart verge?

It’s a verge which has been judged a safe place to let nature thrive and where the council limits grass cutting to promote biodiversity. Resident groups or associations can apply for an area to become a Blue Heart verge if they can see the benefit it will have on the community.

How It Works

Residents can apply for a verge to join the scheme. Each site is assessed for two things:

• Biodiversity potential
• Road safety

If suitable, the verge is managed with a single end‑of‑season cut, usually in October, followed by raking and removing the cuttings. A small Blue Heart plaque is installed so residents and contractors know the verge is part of the scheme.

Residents who adopt a Blue Heart verge are encouraged to remove litter when it’s safe to do so. It’s a small act that makes a big difference to how these spaces look and function.

Where It Works Best

Larger verges tend to deliver the biggest boost for wildlife. One great example is the wide verge along the A246 Guildford Road in Bookham, just north‑east of Rectory Lane, a thriving showcase of what the scheme can achieve.

Frequently Asked Questions

If a verge becomes a Blue Heart verge, it is still maintained by the Council?

When we are cut grass in the area, we will carry out a 'framing cut' of the verge; if required, to prevent any greenery spilling onto the highway or footpaths. We will only approve verges if we deem it safe to do so

What happens to the verge after they are cut at the end of the growing season?

At the end of the growing season, we cut and remove the greenery off the verges. This helps spread the seeds and prevents the vegetation breaking down on the verge. Wildflowers and grasses thrive better in soil that has little nutrients.

Can we plant our own wildflower seeds?

Planting other flower or wildflower seeds isn’t allowed, as we want to encourage locally native plants to grow in the verges.

What happens if the plants on the verge grow too long and spill over onto roads or the footpath?

Not every verge can be allowed to grow long. Where visibility is essential, along junctions, bends and access points along the road, the greenery will be cut for safety.

Share your views on new guidance for Blue Heart verges across Surrey by visiting our consultation webpage.