Public engagement starts for new Community Nature Spaces

Plans are in development for three new Denbighshire community nature spaces to boost benefits for wildlife and surrounding local communities.

Nearly 17,000 trees were planted at sites across the county earlier this year thanks to the support of local volunteers and school children to help nature’s recover for the benefit of surrounding wildlife and communities.

The work has also supported the drive to reach net carbon zero by contributing to the amount of carbon sequestered (or absorbed).

This season the areas developed by the Council will focus on providing stronger habitat spaces for nature to benefit from as well as community spaces for residents young and old to enjoy and learn from local wildlife.

Developing the spaces will also provide other community benefits such as improved air quality, urban heat cooling, physical and mental wellbeing, and areas of mixed interest for education and play.

Chosen areas for development as Community Nature Spaces are Clocaenog, Henllan and St Asaph.

The Community Nature Spaces Project has received funding from an £800,000 grant from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Across these sites, nearly 6,000 trees will be planted which will include fruit trees and hedgerows.

A survey period from 11th to 25th October is seeking the views of residents regarding the creation of the three new community sites in Denbighshire.

Cllr Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said: “We are continuing to grow and develop our successful Woodland Creation Project which over the last two years has seen some fantastic areas for nature and communities created in Rhyl, Prestatyn, Ruthin, Corwen and the surrounding areas.

“These sites are not just to bring back habitats for our local nature but also to support the communities surrounding them, to give residents something to be proud of and that’s why this year’s work will be known as the Community Nature Spaces project.

“We want to hear your views on the designs including preferences for chosen celebration trees at each site, seating at the sites and ideas for information signage for each space and any other ideas you think would suit the land.

“We are also keen to hear if residents would like to get involved with each site such as the tree planting day and any other volunteering or training opportunities.

To access the survey and further information on the four sites please visit the link below: https://countyconversation.denbighshire.gov.uk/KMS/dmart.aspx?strTab=PublicDMart