Latest news with #LocalPlacesforNature
Powys County Times
29-07-2025
- Powys County Times
New plants for stations along Heart of Wales line in Powys
Railway stations are set to bloom thanks to a new planting project. Five stations along the Heart of Wales line have been given new floral planters as part of a biodiversity scheme funded by a Welsh Government Local Places for Nature grant. The planters, located at Builth Road, Llandrindod, Penybont, Knucklas and Knighton, aim to support wildlife and improve the appearance of the stations. Ben Mullen, nature recovery officer with the Powys Nature Partnership, said: "We were looking to fund green infrastructure on the transport network in Powys and involving Transport for Wales, their local volunteer station adopters and the Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership was a perfect fit. "In addition to perennial, pollinator-friendly plants, native wildflowers were planted into peat-free compost. "These will provide pollen and nectar for many species such as bees, hoverflies, butterflies and moths. "The planters will act as 'stepping stones' within the wider environment and show that small-scale planting can make a big difference to our declining nature." The project is a collaboration between Transport for Wales, the Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership, and local station volunteers. Geraint Morgan, community rail manager for Transport for Wales, said: "Stations are important gateways to communities along the line and first impressions matter. "This grant has helped enhance existing green features at the five stations, which will be cared for by our dedicated teams of local volunteers." The planters were made by Norman Industries, a supported employment enterprise based in Haverfordwest. Owen Griffkin, community rail officer for the Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership, said: "We were delighted to partner with Powys County Council in making our stations more welcoming for the community and the many tourists who travel on the railway.
Leader Live
12-07-2025
- General
- Leader Live
More than 9,000 trees planted across Wrexham in project
The planting took place over the winter through a partnership between Wrexham Council and the Wrexham Forest Partnership, with the aim of enhancing woodland habitats and supporting green spaces for wildlife and residents. Councillor Terry Evans, Wrexham Council's lead member for environmental services, said: "I am proud that we have successfully planted these 9,000 trees in areas around the county borough. "Trees are at the heart of a thriving, resilient environment. "By investing in our woodlands, we're investing in healthier communities, richer habitats, and a greener future for Wrexham." Trees and woodlands offer a wide range of benefits, from improving air quality and reducing urban heat to supporting biodiversity and improving wellbeing. The scheme was funded by the Woodland Trust's Emergency Tree Fund, Trees for Cities, the Local Places for Nature scheme, and the Shared Prosperity Fund. Priority was given to areas with low tree canopy cover and poor tree equity scores to ensure the greatest impact. The newly planted trees form part of a long-term strategy to develop a more connected and sustainable woodland network across Wrexham. Woodlands are classed as a priority habitat in Wales, and expanding them is seen as an important step in addressing the climate and nature emergency. In addition to environmental benefits, the trees will provide food and shelter for birds, insects, and mammals, further supporting the region's ecosystem. The Wrexham Forest Partnership is encouraging residents to help care for the new trees. Volunteers are needed to support their growth, and both experienced gardeners and complete beginners are welcome. Anyone interested in volunteering can email woodlandpledge@ READ MORE: People urged to help save 'vital' community hospital after 'shock' closure Residents can also show their support by signing the Wrexham Woodland Pledge on the council's website. To celebrate the importance of trees and woodlands, Wrexham will host Woodland Connections Week from June 14 to 21. The event will include workshops, guided walks, and other activities designed to highlight the role trees play in shaping communities and supporting wildlife. Further details about the event will be announced in the coming months.
