Work is underway for the creation of a new Denbighshire based nature park.

Phase one has started on the development and regeneration of woodland and parkland surrounding Bodelwyddan Castle.

Funded by the UK Government, renovation work at Bodelwyddan Park will see the reopening of park lands, woods and orchards to the public once again.

Nearly one and a half miles of new disabled friendly limestone topped pathways have been developed across land from the bottom of the parkland, connecting right up to the woodland.

These paths will weave their way through newly planted woodland areas and wildflower meadows developed to help local biodiversity, complemented with views of Bodelwyddan Castle and the Vale of Clwyd. An old grounds orchard has been opened up to also walk through, interpretation boards will be provided along the paths to explain the surrounding land and new seating will be provided.

Hedgerows will be planted along new boundary fencing to also support local nature on the parkland. Access for the parkland Roe deer herd will be provided at key points in the new boundary fencing.

Work has taken place to preserve the historic First World War trenches at the top of the parkland with a new fencing enclosure protecting the site.

Woodland paths are also set to be restored with new limestone topping to improve access for visitors to Bodelwyddan Park along with new signage in the area and the parkland.

Special protective fence enclosures have been built in the woodland to protect tree and plant areas including the old Victorian Orchard from deer to allow certain species to flourish stronger going forward.

A new parking area has also been created near the bottom entrance off the A55 for people visiting the park. Work on the first phase is scheduled to be completed in May.

Councillor Alan James, Lead Member for Local Development and Planning said: “We are really pleased to see Bodelwyddan Park starting to take shape and are looking forward to being able to welcome back the public to this fantastic area to support their physical and mental wellbeing by walking through such a rich variety of park parkland.”

Councillor Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport and Council Biodiversity Champion, added: “The regeneration of the parkland will provide vital support that our local wildlife needs to survive going forward and will also give Denbighshire residents and visitors a great place to visit to experience the nature our county has to offer.”