Property developers in Bristol could see a ban on using artificial grass in new-builds, to help support local pollinators and other insects.

The ban is outlined in Bristol City Council’s new draft Local Plan, which includes the development of nearly 35k new homes by 2040, with a majority designated for urban brownfield sites.

Writing on X, formally Twitter, the Bristol Labour group says: “We’re banning artificial grass, introducing requirements for swift bricks, hedgehog holes and pollinator infrastructure, and protecting an extensive network of local green spaces.”

The Local Plan also includes green roof and living wall installations to boost biodiversity in the area.

The draft states: “Developments should not include artificial grass within their landscape schemes or as part of the provision of private or communal space. The policy doesn’t allow for artificial grass within the landscape treatment of development, because that form of surfacing does not support biodiversity gain or nature recovery.”

The draft will be voted on by councillors next week on 31 October, ahead of an upcoming public consultation.