Work continues improving biodiversity at Newtown's green spaces

New biodiversity improvements and community features are being introduced at Trehafren Fields and Dolerw Park as part of Open Newtown’s latest land management programme.

A report going to Newtown Town Council’s Services Committee confirms that funding has been secured for habitat and access improvements, with several new features planned for installation this spring.

According to the report: “Funding has been gained to deliver improvements to areas of biodiversity in places such as Dolerw Park and Trehafren Fields.”

Among the planned additions are new visitor features designed to support wildlife and public engagement. “A new bird hide and bench will be installed, as well as a wooden sculpture that is being crafted in a local workshop,” the report states.

Young people have been directly involved in the sculpture project. The report said: “Children from Feathers Charity youth club and Game Change Project have been working with the sculptor in this development.”

Open Newtown is the trading name of Going Green for a Living Community Land Trust Ltd and operates as a not for profit social enterprise. Under a long term lease and service agreement, it manages more than 100 acres of parkland and green space in Newtown, covering grass cutting, tree care and environmental maintenance, while also running the Hafan Yr Afon visitor centre separately.

Further planting work is also planned around woodland edges near housing areas in partnership with Tir Coed, with opportunities for community participation. “There will be opportunities for local residents to get involved too and learn some new skills,” the report says.

Open Newtown said it is also developing its longer term approach to green space management. It states: “We’re working with an independent consultant to further develop the land management plan for the 100 plus acres that we manage.”