A LOCAL councillor aims to improve the health and well-being to the city's area with the shortest life expectancy.

Worcester News recently reported that there is a big life expectancy gap across the city depending on the area residents live in.

The average life expectancy for men in Nunnery ward is just 74.2 years, according to figures from Worcestershire County Council. Evidence shows a significant increase of the average life span for male residents in St Peter’s, which is 85.2 years.

Nunnery Councillor, Tracey Biggs, chairs the Newtown Green Community Group and works alongside local residents and Fortis to enhance the Newtown Green, also known as Ronkswood Fields.

“Newtown Green is the hidden gem of Ronkswood. An area of peace and tranquillity. It is a safe and beautiful space for residents to enjoy,” Cllr Biggs said, “So far, we’ve carried out litter picks, facilitated children’s activities, repaired pathways, and hosted regular health walks.”

The area of grassland alongside Nunnery Wood was once managed as sports pitches. By maintaining the Green, it has led to a gradual return and spread of wildflowers such as Yellow Rattle.

Cllr Biggs said: “Our aim is to preserve the natural beauty of the site and to encourage more people to use it and gain benefit from it.

“This weekend, Andy Graham, a local ecological expert, led a group of us in an ecological survey of the Green. We will be using this survey to help us to plan future improvements to the site. It has given us the chance to really notice the stunning beauty of the ecosystem that exists around us.

“We’ve been discovering the ancient hedgerows, ancient ant hills, the hay field and so many different types of plants, trees and wildlife which we are blessed with. Newtown Green is a magnet for butterflies and so many can be seen there.”

Anyone is welcome to join the Newtown Green Community Group. If you’re interested contact Tracey Biggs on 07846076557.