Dragonflies’ Den launches to support wildlife projects in Douglas
09 February 2024
Douglas City Council and Manx Wildlife Trust have teamed up to launch ‘The Dragonflies’ Den’, abrand-new concept to support communities and wildlife in the capital. The initiative has been developed in association with UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man to help people in Douglas create or boost projects that protect or increase biodiversity, help fight climate change, or support pollinators.
From community gardens and orchards to wildlife ponds and wildflower areas, all ideas are welcome.
Manx Wildlife Trust’s Community Ranger, Hannah Phillips, and Team Wilder Coordinator, Lucy Chapman, will be on hand to listen to and help Douglas residents develop their nature friendly ideas into a proposal ready to be considered in the Dragonflies’ Den. Successful projects will be supported by Douglas City Council with tools, expertise, and materials to create wildlife friendly areas for the whole community to enjoy.
Hon Clare Barber MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture and vice-chair of UNESCO
Biosphere Isle of Man, said:
‘I hope The Dragonflies’ Den captures the imagination of people in Douglas. I am sure our Dragonflies won’t be at all scary so I would encourage anyone to give it a go and pitch their ideas to them. I look forward to seeing communities coming together to submit projects, and to seeing them spring up, further improving our city for nature.’
Councillor Andrew Bentley, Chair of Douglas Council Regeneration & Community Committee, said:‘This project is a celebration of the power that communities hold to create change in our own backyard. The creativity and passion in Douglas to combat global challenges like biodiversity loss and climate change is truly inspiring, and through Dragonflies’ Den, we are able to harness that energy and transform it into tangible action.
’We are proud to be a part of this movement for change, and we eagerly anticipate the projects thatwe will have the privilege of supporting. Through this partnership with Manx Wildlife Trust and UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man, we can make a real difference for the future of our planet, and we look forward to the impact that we will achieve.’
Schools, community groups, businesses and neighbourhoods are all welcome to apply and are invited
to contact enquiries@mwt.im by March 8.