Woodland development highlighted for biodiversity support

A former school field has been welcomed for its contribution to tackling local climate change

Representatives from the Council recently visited the old primary school field at Llanrhydd Street, Ruthin, to officially launch the newly established woodland site on the land.

They were also joined by school pupils from Ysgol Pen Barras and Rhos Street school.

The Council’s Woodland Creation Project saw 800 trees planted on site earlier in the year as part of a continuing effort to reduce carbon emissions and improve biodiversity.

These new trees are in addition to the planting of over 18,000 across the county as part of the Council’s Corporate Plan 2017-22 focus on the preservation of the natural environment and also the maintaining and enhancing biodiversity within the county.

A number of school children rolled up their sleeves to help plant the trees on their old school field in Ruthin, and in keeping with the school theme, an outdoor classroom area was also built on the site not only to help the children learn about biodiversity but also give a helping hand to local nocturnal residents.

The classroom constructed of wood by local craftsperson Huw Noble incorporated a ‘Bat Roof’ which was specially designed to provide the features bats need to roost during the day.

Councillor Arwel Roberts, Chairman of the Council, said: “I am really pleased to officially launch this site which is a real gem for the local community.

“It is great to see the education theme kept on site with the outdoor classroom and I hope many people will get to learn how important this site is for protecting local biodiversity.”

Councillor Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said: “The Council is really grateful to all the volunteers, school pupils and local members who worked on the Llanrhydd site. "Their commitment has helped us put biodiversity at the heart of this community and provide a community site to be proud of for generations to come."