Last month, Derek Walker, Future Generations Commissioner, praised our Growth for Good project for leading the way in Wales. This month, we were proud to show him some of our outdoor spaces up close!
Funded by the Welsh Government and delivered by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Growth for Good is our long-term project focused on transforming outdoor spaces.
Derek joined us for a tour of Coed Bach Dimbath and our tiny (but mighty!) forests in Cefn Glas.
Coed Bach Dimbath
We’re transforming Coed Bach Dimbath, formerly Blackmill Woodland, into a vibrant nature hub for local people to enjoy.
Cefn Glas
Cefn Glas is now home to two impressive tiny forests that bring the benefits of woodland to urban areas.
The Green
Another brand new community green space we’re working on.
We were also pleased to welcome Andrew White, Director of Wales at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and our pathways contractor, Greenspace SOS, to the visits.
The highlights
This visit gave us a chance to show the Commissioner and the Director exactly how their funding supports biodiversity, restoration and carbon reduction.
For example, planting thousands of trees across our tiny forests helps the environment by:
- Protecting the community from the effects of flooding by absorbing rainwater
- Attracting up to 500 animal and plant species
- Storing carbon dioxide, reducing the levels of harmful gas that gets released into the earth’s atmosphere.
Taking care of Bridgend’s outdoor spaces supports our goal of creating communities we can thrive in.
Even though it was a rainy day, the sites made quite an impression!
Derek shared: “If we look at the long term future of our country, we know we need to do more to tackle climate change, so it’s been wonderful to see how Valleys to Coast has been working with residents to restore nature, plant trees and support people’s wellbeing.”
Andrew added: “What struck me was the power of volunteering and community, and the connection between local businesses, houses and schools. Congratulations to everyone who has been involved because you’re doing a great job and long may it continue!”