A previously overgrown and inaccessible woodland in Blackmill, Bridgend, is being transformed into a new community nature space, with improved access, an outdoor classroom, and walking routes forming part of the National Forest for Wales.
Regeneration works are officially underway, led by Bridgend-based housing association Valleys to Coast. Funding has been secured through the Woodland Investment Grant (TWIG), which awarded Valleys to Coast £249,950 to restore and safely reopen the 13,993 m² site.
A further £18,400 from the Welsh Government will support improvements to the woodland, which will become part of the National Forest for Wales Trail spanning the length and breadth of the country.
Key features include a restored public pathway, a nature trail with community seating, a tree nursery to harvest and preserve local seeds, and an otter hide.
Students at Bridgend College will also benefit from a research partnership with Valleys to Coast to analyse local oak varieties in the woodland.
Regeneration work commenced in January, marked by the installation of a motorcycle inhibitor gate and the completion of new woodland access points.
Valleys to Coast has engaged with several community groups and schools in preparation for the project, with residents contributing to the renaming of the wood: Coed Bach Dimbath (little Dimbath woods).
Last month, Valleys to Coast delivered an engagement session for horticulture students at Pencoed College and facilitated an event at Betws Primary School, where 150 pupils worked together to create artwork that will be displayed in the woodland’s outdoor classroom.
Local residents are invited to see the transformation first-hand at a community event on 27th May, 12-2 pm. The meeting point is Graig Terrace, Blackmill, CF35 6DU.
