A new lease of life for Garw Wood
We are thrilled to say that Garw Wood, our ancient woodland off Edlogan Way in Croesyceiliog, is now flourishing with fresh new growth after being restored and replanted following damage in areas of it last year.
The woodland is gradually returning to its natural beauty after efforts by our Tree team and Torfaen Council’s Environmental team to preserve damaged trees and to plant saplings in the area.
Mark Burchell, our Specialist Team Leader, Trees, said: “It is such a joy to see the woodland springing back to life and recover as well as it has. There’s plenty of new growth and it’s great to see wildlife returning and to hear the birds singing again.
“Over the past 12 months, we have been working hard to plan and create a woodland that is accessible to the public in a way that also gives it chance to recover.
“We have erected new wooden fencing at the top end of the woodland, with a designated access route and a flowing footpath from top to bottom that directs users away from the areas that were so badly damaged.
“We have also planted several locally sourced beech hedges around the woodland’s perimeter to limit access and establish a boundary with nearby properties. More tree planting is planned to replace trees that are dead, damaged or dying.
“This work has only been possible due to a mixture of funding from Bron Afon, the Branching Out Project and Croesyceiliog and Llanyrafon Community Council, who are looking to fund additional new trees within the woodland over the coming autumn/winter.”
Councillor Jo Gauden said “’I’m delighted to see nature thriving once again in our treasured wood. The wood is a peaceful retreat to reconnect with nature and observe the wildlife. The birdsong is joyful and if you take your time to stop and stare, you’ll see new growth settling in, fungi and lots of mini-beasts.
Kristen Thobroe, Local Places For Nature Delivery Officer, Torfaen, said, “Garw Wood is a brilliant example of how collaboration and community care can breathe new life into our natural spaces. “It has been great to be able to work together with Bron Afon and local councillors and to see the woodland recover so well. Restoring nature in places like this not only benefits wildlife but also creates a peaceful, green space for local people to enjoy.”
Mark added, “We want to say a big thank you to everyone involved in this project to restore Garw Wood. It’s been great to see all partners working together, as it gives so much back to the woodland and the local community.
“It’s important to us to encourage people to love and respect the woodland, to educate communities about all the fantastic benefits it provides and to make sure it is accessible for everyone to enjoy.”
