While it's probably fair to say that the sun has not been shining it's hardest throughout July in Hebden Royd, the area is looking increasingly vibrant thanks to the beautiful hanging baskets adorning the frontages of over 140 local businesses.
Planted with a diversity of stunning pollinator species which attract and feed bees, moths and other flying insects, the flowers are now starting to really come into their own. In addition to the retailer baskets, a further 60 lamp post baskets between Hebden Bridge & Mytholmroyd, and 40 baskets down Bridge Gate/St Georges Square have been purchased and installed by the Town Council to showcase the locality.
With the installation commencing in early June. The displays brighten the streets with an array of colours, making them attractive for visitors and the local community alike, proving that small changes can make a big impact on the environment.
For the last 8 years the hanging baskets have been supplied by local supplier Gardenius Nurseries of Ogden Halifax. One of the standout features of this year's stunning hanging baskets is that they are entirely peat-free, reflecting Hebden Royd Town Council's commitment to safeguarding the environment, and enabling others to do the same. By using peat-free alternatives, this is a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions and preserving precious ecosystems. What's more, an innovative reservoir design within each basket ensures that they are watered efficiently, and therefore optimising water usage, reducing waste, and further contributing to the town's eco-friendly efforts.
A wide variety of local businesses and organisations have shown their support for the eco-friendly initiative by participating in the town's hanging basket program at a subsidised cost of £50 per basket. The all-inclusive package includes a hanging bracket and safety audit, basket installation, ongoing watering and feeding to ensure the blooms stay radiant throughout the summer, and public liability insurance. Additionally, the removal of the baskets at the end of their bloom cycle is also included in the package, making it a hassle-free experience for the participating businesses.
The duration of the displays will be weather dependent, with HRTC planning to take down the baskets by early October. This timeline ensures the town can enjoy the beauty of the blooms throughout the summer and into the early autumn months. There has been thoughtful consideration given to the entire lifecycle. Since, once the hanging baskets have completed their blooming period, the expired plants are sustainably composted. This eco-friendly approach ensures that the town's commitment to environmental protection extends beyond the aesthetics and into responsible waste management.
Added: Thursday, 3 August 2023