We are thrilled once again to be able to announce that for the fifth year running Coed y Werin has been successful in achieving the Green Flag status. This is a great accolade to the Trust and proof that the hard work and determination, in all weathers, by Trustees and our Volunteers has paid off in once again achieving this award
The land (23 acres) was saved from being developed as landfill by the local community who in 2002 got together to purchase it with a grant from the Local Authority. The Charity ‘Caerphilly Woodlands Trust’ was set up where Trustees were appointed and a strategic management plan, with the help from ecology and geology specialists, was put in place.
Over these past 17 years the dedicated team of trustees and volunteers have tirelessly continued their work with, from time to time, help from local youth groups, schools and businesses turning the woods, now known as ‘Coed y Werin’ the ‘People’s Woods’ into the tranquil wooded haven that it is today.
Within Coed y Werin is an area that is a Special Site of Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to the unique geology, dating back to the carboniferous period, some 350 million years. The rest of Coed y Werin is a Site of Important Nature Conservation (SINC) with an ancient woodland, dating back to 600AD. We can confidently boast that over 80% of ancient woodland flowers can be found on our site.
“It goes without saying that if not for the help of Trustees and volunteers, we would not have achieved this prestigious award, a recognition of their hard work and dedication”said Jayne – Chair
Caerphilly Woodlands Trust
Over these past 17 years, guided by our management plan, we have gradually removed conifers and reintroduced indigenous broadleaf species of trees. This work, opening up the tree canopy and forest floor, has provided greater creation of the natural biodiversity. But there is always lots more work to do and everything we do helps us achieve our aims to meet our Charter to:
- Sustain landscapes rich in wildlife
- Plant for the future
- Celebrate the power of trees to inspire
- Grow forests of opportunity and innovation
- Protect irreplaceable trees and woods
- Plan greener local landscapes
- Recover health, hope and wellbeing with the help of trees
- Make trees accessible to all
- Combat the threats to our habitats
- Strengthen our landscapes with trees
I want to give a massive shout out to all our wonderful volunteers who contribute their time freely to this amazing community activity. Volunteers in Wales have a value of at least £757 million per year but give their time for nothing but for the benefit of their community.Said Jayne
If we are to build a better and safer world for our children and grandchildren we will need the dedication and good will of volunteers like these more than ever. They are truly priceless.
If you are interested in joining the Caerphilly Woodland Trust or helping out as a volunteer please contact us via our Facebook Page, twitter or through our contact information on our Webpage.