New Nature Strip Garden Guidelines promote biodiversity and community connection

The City of Whittlesea’s new Nature Strip Garden Guidelines will provide residents with more options when it comes to creating beautiful and sustainable nature strip gardens. 

Residents will now be able to apply to plant edible crops in removable planter boxes, providing the opportunity to grow their own produce, as well as adding plants and shrubs up to a height of 90cm. These changes will allow a greater variety of plants, helping to create vibrant and diverse neighbourhoods.

City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator, Lydia Wilson encouraged residents to explore the new guidelines and learn how they can modify the nature strip adjacent to their property.

“At the City of Whittlesea, we are committed to creating spaces that not only contribute to our beautiful city but also enrich our lives. These new guidelines reflect our community’s desire to shape the look and feel of their surroundings, while highlighting our commitment to sustainability and safety.”

“In addition to the environmental and safety benefits, the guidelines will help add to the appeal of our neighbourhoods and offer opportunities for people to connect with neighbours over urban gardening. Beautifully landscaped nature strips create a sense of pride among residents and improve the overall amenity of our community.”

“We thank the community for their input in developing the guidelines. We’re excited to see the changes our residents will make to nature strips and the benefits these will bring to our community.”

The guidelines outline what modifications can be made to nature strips, while prioritising the safety of road users and pedestrians by ensuring clear pathways for movement. The guidelines also limit the use of materials that can have a detrimental environmental impact, such as artificial turf, granitic sand or crushed rock.

Residents can find more information or apply for a permit to modify the nature strip adjacent to their property at www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/naturestrip