Already committed to making new arrivals to the county feel at home, Laois Partnership Company has expanded its welcome policy from people to plant life thanks to the vibrancy of a biodiversity project that has created a botanical sanctuary outside our premises in Portlaoise.
Overseen by Tús supervisor, Pat Doody, the meadow located at the New Road in Portlaoise flourished with a host of wildflowers via the simple method of leaving Mother Nature unimpeded. After consulting with a horticulturist in April of this year, it was decided to reduce grass mowing in the meadow to encourage the growth of new plants and insect life, which led to the appearance of a bee orchid in May, a relatively rare flower in Ireland.
Pat expressed his gratitude for the Senior Management team’s support in their efforts to contribute to biodiversity in the area and enhance the local environment. Despite initial concerns from members of the public that the unkempt grass would make the area look untidy, the response was enthusiastic once the meadow started to blossom and signage was erected that explained the project’s purpose.
Addressing any worries about the site’s aesthetics, Pat explained that the visual appeal was enhanced once patterns were cut into the meadow and improvements were made to the flower beds. All manner of blooms has sprouted since the emergence of that first bee orchid, including the rare pyramidal orchid, the scarlet pimpernel, cockscomb rattleweed, forget-me-nots, and more common varieties such as selfheal and yarrow.
Although Laois Partnership Company may primarily be focused on fostering economic growth in the county, the splendour of the meadow is testament to our commitment to ecological growth as well, which is why we have signed up to the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan, as part of our goal to improve the quality of life for everyone in County Laois.