History of the Caerphilly Woodlands Trust
In 2002 the woodlands (comprising 'the Warren', 'Wernddu
Woods' and 'Coed y Fan') were saved from the threat of development thanks to the
work of the then newly formed Caerphilly Woodlands Trust (CWT), the Forestry
Commission and other local partners.
The woodlands are now owned by the Forestry
Commission, who agreed to manage the woodlands in partnership with the
Caerphilly Woodlands Trust.
In April 2003 the CWT became the sole and
permanent owners of approximately 23 acres of the woodlands within 'the Warren',
consisting of the area known locally as the 'old clay pits' and surrounding
area. This area has now been renamed as 'Coed y Werin' to reflect that the
CWT manage these woods and hold them in trust for all the people of Caerphilly.
Ron Davies, Christine O'Meara, Clive Elsbury signing to
register the trust as a formal charity
Today
The
committee of CWT are volunteers, elected annually by the CWT
members. The committee hold regular bi-monthly meetings which are
open to all CWT members.
Trust
members hold regular work party mornings in the woodlands, undertaking
work on a purely voluntary basis - improving access, clearing brash,
re-planting native trees, clearing water courses etc.. The trust
actively seeks to involve the local communities and organisations in their
activities. All work is carried out in accordance with CCW
(Countryside Council for Wales) guidelines.
The CWT
organises
guided walks and nature rambles through the woodlands and are willing to
speak to local organisations on the objectives and activities of the CWT
to promote their activities and encourage new membership.
Objectives
The
objectives of the CWT can be summarised as;
The
preservation and protection of the natural environment, its flora and
fauna, in the Caerphilly area for the public benefit, and in particular to
promote the development of sustainable woodlands, their management and use
as public amenities and havens for wildlife.
Executive
Committee (2010/2011)
Andrew
George (Chair)
Vernon
John (Treasurer)
Avril
Owen (Secretary)
Guy
Bowden
Marjorie
Butcher
Ron
Davies
Lythan
Griffiths
Steph
McDonald
John
Spencer
Cledwyn
Griffiths
Alice Milanese
