A Local Places for Nature project transforming overgrown land at Merthyr Town FC into a remembrance and wildlife garden, supporting wellbeing, biodiversity, and community reflection.
Key details
- Location: Merthyr Tydfil (at Merthyr Town Football Club)
- Project Type: Wildlife & Remembrance Garden
- Group: Merthyr Town FC (Community Mutual, not-for-profit)
- Deprivation Index:
- Physical: 10% most deprived
- Overall: 30–50% most deprived
- Community Involvement:
- 12 volunteers, 90+ volunteer hours
- Gurnos Men’s Project, Wildlife Trusts, Griffiths Construction, special needs schools
- 400+ people can see/use the garden; up to 700 regular visitors estimated
Outputs
- Wildflower turf, fruit trees, wildlife-friendly tree pack, habitat boxes, benches, raised beds
- Remembrance garden for reflection and wellbeing
- Improved access, including resurfaced paths for disabled visitors
Benefits
- Social: Area for reflection, remembrance, and community gathering
- Health: Supports mental health and wellbeing, especially after pandemic losses
- Environmental: Increased biodiversity, wildlife habitats, and pollinator-friendly planting
- Unexpected benefits: Community Green Flag Award, grand opening event, ongoing learning
Quotes
“For me, the project has been simply incredible. When I first wanted to create a Wellbeing, Remembrance and Nature Garden I could never have envisaged what has been created. … Getting stuck in with all aspects of the project has thus far been very rewarding!”
David
“The project has been a joy to see, with a previously overgrown area of the ground being brought back to life by the excellent work of Keep Wales Tidy.”
Rob
“Me and the boys really appreciated Keep Wales Tidy letting us get involved with the projects as they love seeing how volunteering and putting their training to use benefits the wellbeing of the people using these areas otherwise these projects wouldn’t happen.”
Jeremy Davies, Gurnos Men’s Project
Recent developments and top-up
- Wildlife pond, rockery, and additional planting added in 2024
- Biodiversity increased, new mowing regime, more trees and plants
- Employed a gardener for maintenance and school visits
- Improved access for disabled visitors
- Community Green Flag Award received
- Grand opening with local dignitaries and choir
Future plans
- Ongoing maintenance and biodiversity improvements
- Continued collaboration with Keep Wales Tidy and local biodiversity officers
- Ensure the space is looked after for future generations
