Traditional skill crafts rejuvenate Prestatyn nature space

A Prestatyn based nature space has undergone a traditional land craft this autumn to help support local wildlife.

Denbighshire’s Countryside Service and volunteers have worked to carry out hedgelaying at Parc Bodnant.

The site was developed in 2023 as part of the Council’s Woodland Creation Project to provide stronger support for nature and the surrounding community.

Ffordd Parc Bodnant saw nearly 1,500 trees, including hedgerow trees, planted at the site which included fruit trees, wildlife hedgerow and widely spaced native trees to help provide shade and keep the parkland habitat setting.

A pond was also created to hold a low level of water to provide optimum conditions for many species to thrive and visitors the site will also find an orchard and when in season a large colourful wildflower meadow.

Hedgelaying has now been carried out at the site next to the orchard tree line to help boost biodiversity and the look of the area for people visiting.

Matt Winstanley, Countryside Ranger, explained: “We have worked to relay and rejuvenate this hedgerow, that was first planted in 2019, cutting out old or dead wood to make way for younger stems to be laid. This is usually done around every seven years and will increase keep the hedge manageable and increase its lifespan.

“This technique was used widely by landowners as part of their winter boundary management. Mechanical hedgerow maintenance then took over, but studies carried out have demonstrated how much more effective this older method is for regenerating hedgerows.

He added: “As the hedges become fresher and younger in appearance, the skill also allows the hedgerow base to thicken providing a denser habitat for biodiversity to thrive.“

Cllr Barry Mellor, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, and Biodiversity Champion said: “Hedgerows are essential habitats for wildlife, and this work by the rangers and volunteers at Parc Bodnant will make such a big difference to the role this site carries out for supporting nature. It’s great to see also how this additional work is freshening up the look of the site as well which community members walking past will appreciate.”