Glan Elwy Community Nature Space – Have Your Say
Why are we doing this?
In July 2019, the Council passed a motion to declare a Climate Change and Ecological Emergency. A cross party-political working group was established to oversee the development of a Climate and Ecological Change Strategy, which can be viewed here. The strategy was approved by Council in February 2021, committing the Council to become Net Carbon Zero and more Ecologically Positive Council by 2030. This includes reducing the Council’s carbon emissions from several sources. However, reduction of our emissions alone will not enable us to reach net zero, we must also increase the amount of carbon sequestered (or absorbed) by 2030 in order to achieve this.
This tree planting project will help the council achieve that carbon zero goal by contributing to the amount of carbon sequestered (or absorbed).
Additionally, to achieve the Ecologically Positive target, and help nature’s recovery, the Council must increase the species richness of its land. Mixed Broadleaf and Yew Woodland is in the top 3 species richness habitats so any work to increase woodland in Council ownership will support this target.
This project will help the council achieve that increased biodiversity target by 2030 and positively contribute towards helping nature’s recovery in Denbighshire.
Where is the proposed Community Nature Space?
These plans are in relation to Glan Elwy field, immediately south of the ‘New Inn’ public house, in St Asaph. Please find a location plan included below.
What we intend to do at the proposed Glan Elwy Community Nature Space includes:
- increasing the current tree canopy cover to at least 20%
- improving nature connectivity by enhancing the existing hedgerows
- creating a small woodland, to include the rare, native, black poplar tree species
- planting some standard trees, including a ‘celebration’ tree
- enhancing the site for biodiversity by managing grassland to encourage a wildflower meadow
- creating a nature reserve wetland area with publicly accessible bird viewing platforms – access to this nature reserve will be by request only for educational and training purposes to ensure nature can thrive here
- creating gateways access to allow for informal access around the wetland area and through the newly created wooded area
- introducing benches for visitors to sit and enjoy the site
- installing information signs about the site
Please find illustrated site designs below. These outline the proposed plans and locations of the specified enhancements.
What do we want to know?
We would like to know:
• Your general feedback on the design
• Your preference for the chosen ‘celebration’ tree
• Whether you would like to see any seating at the site
• Whether you have any ideas for the information signs
• If you would like to get involved and/or stay informed about the tree planting day and other training/volunteer opportunities
• If you would like to be kept informed about the council’s climate and ecological change work
To get involved and have your say, please complete the survey by following the link below.
All responses must be received by 09:00 Wednesday 25th October.
If you cannot complete this online survey, paper copies will be available for completion at your local library.
What happens next?
After all feedback has been received we will:
- Evaluate the survey results
- Review the plans and designs for the site
The anticipated project commencement will be early in 2024, with completion by the end of December 2024.
If you would be interested in volunteering at the site and/or being involved in the tree planting, we will add you to our mailing list to receive relevant information and updates. However, please follow our social media accounts on Facebook and X (Twitter) where we will be posting updates on tree planting dates and times as soon as these have been confirmed..
Location:
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Start date
11 October 2023
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End date
25 October 2023
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Methods
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Supplier
Denbighshire County Council
What we found out
Please check back for results
What difference has it made?
Related documents
