THOUSANDS of hours of volunteer work helped maintain parks, meadows and woodland across Tameside last year.
Volunteers working alongside Tameside Council’s greenspace team contributed the equivalent of 2,258 days of work during 2025, according to the council’s latest biodiversity report.
They carried out projects aimed at improving the borough’s natural environment and helping tackle the effects of climate change.
The work ranged from meadow management and tree planting to repairing footpaths and clearing drainage ditches to reduce flooding risks.
Volunteers and officers also carried out woodland management, including coppicing, to help protect and improve existing woodland areas across the borough.
The council says meadow maintenance work has helped encourage the growth of wildflowers, improve soil health and support local wildlife, while tree planting schemes have taken place at parks and countryside sites throughout Tameside.
As well as environmental improvements, teams have also focused on practical work to keep greenspaces accessible and welcoming, including repairing fencing, paths and infrastructure.
Further activities are planned throughout the rest of 2026, with volunteers expected to take part in habitat pile creation, hedge building, litter picking and additional woodland management.
This year also marks a major milestone for the borough’s greenspace volunteers, who are celebrating 50 years of volunteering work in Tameside.
Tameside Council’s Strategic Director of Housing, Environment & Estates, Julian Jackson, said: “The work completed by the team and volunteers is absolutely fantastic for Tameside. Their commitment to maintenance plays a vital role in keeping our towns safe, green, and welcoming for everyone across the borough and promoting a more sustainable environment for our future generations.
“It’s a great effort from all involved and I would like to thank them, and everyone who helps to look after our local areas, for their commitment.”
People interested in volunteering opportunities in their local area can find more information at https://www.tameside.gov.uk/volunteering