A wildflower and tree planting project has taken place at Bervie’s Brae in Cowdenbeath Public Park, thanks to a partnership between Fife Council and Fife Coast and Countryside Trust, with help from enthusiastic pupils from Lumphinnans Primary School and Beath High School.

Over the course of a full day of hands‑on activity, more than 600 native broadleaf tree saplings, generously funded by Woodland Trust Scotland, were planted across the hillside. Pupils also helped install over 1,000 wildflower plugs, creating a vibrant and diverse habitat that will flourish throughout the summer months. In total, 37 pupils and 12 teachers and helpers took part, making a significant contribution to the project’s success.

Grounds Maintenance Team Manager Stephen Duffy said: “The planting will bring immediate seasonal colour while also supporting long‑term ecological improvements. As the young trees establish, they will naturally extend the small woodland area on the east side of the hill, creating an enriched and more connected green space for wildlife.

“We were careful to preserve the popular sledging slope in the centre of the hill, leaving it unplanted so it can continue to be enjoyed by local families during winter snow.”

Creating areas of wildflower and woodland provides essential environmental benefits. Trees and wildflower habitats attract bees, butterflies, insects and birds, offering vital support to native pollinators whose numbers continue to decline across the UK. Wildflower planting is one of the simplest, most effective tools for enhancing biodiversity in urban areas, while tree planting plays a key role in addressing the climate and nature crises. The project also contributes to the wider shared ambition of developing the Fife Climate Forest.

The transformation of this highly visible hillside will not only enrich local biodiversity but also create a more attractive and natural landscape for park visitors, supporting wellbeing and increasing community engagement with the green space.

Learn more about climate and biodiversity initiatives across Fife:

• Climate Action Fife: https://www.climateactionfife.org
• Fife Climate Forest: https://www.climateactionfife.org/fife-climate-forest