Volunteers plant 3,000 bulbs to bring colour and biodiversity to Wansboro Park
More than 20 community workers of all ages came together to enhance the local green space at Wansboro Park. The Sunday of October 18 turned into a family planting day with the volunteers sowing as many as 3000 woodland bulbs to bloom in spring.
The activity marked a major biodiversity milestone for the Wansboro Park Improvements Group. The carefully selected mix of bluebells, snowdrops, crocus, and anemone is designed to transform the Assumption Road entrance to the park with vibrant colour next spring, while providing crucial early-season food for bees and other vital pollinators.
The group also hung some halloween ghosts to scare off the crows and add festive cheer.
The initiative was supported by Westmeath County Council and Athlone Tidy Towns, whose mentorship and practical guidance have been instrumental in getting the group off the ground. The Wansboro Park Improvements Group also acknowledged the constructive assistance and helpful advice provided by council horticulturist Tom Daly in preparation for the day.
Speaking after the event, Louise Heavin, chairperson of the Wansboro Park Improvements Group, praised the collaborative effort: “We are absolutely thrilled with the turnout for our family planting day. Planting 3,000 bulbs is a massive achievement, and it wouldn't have been possible without the brilliant support of Athlone Tidy Towns. Their experience has been a massive asset to our group.
“We are also grateful to the council for providing the technical advice needed to ensure our planting aligns with local biodiversity goals. We look forward to maintaining these positive working relationships as we scale up our future activities in the park.”
Looking ahead, the group is ambitious to expand its footprint in the park. Plans are already underway for future positive gardening projects aimed at transforming Wansboro Park into an even stronger community and environmental asset.
The group is actively welcoming new volunteers to help drive these initiatives forward. Local residents, businesses, and community groups interested in getting involved are encouraged to get in touch by emailing wansboropark@gmail.com.