More than 400 trees have been planted in Holyhead as the county council works towards reaching net zero status by 2030.
The planting scheme near Ysgol Gymraeg Morswyn is one of several Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) projects that is funded by a three-year Welsh Government Sustainable Landscape Sustainable Places grant.
Thirteen new allotment plots will also be created at the site and will be on offer to residents and local schools. A small scale, native tree nursery will also be created to provide local trees for Anglesey council’s future tree planting projects.
Anglesey county council’s countryside and AONB unit recently carried out the works with the aim of creating a native hedgerow. This included planting several native spices such as dog rose, hazel, hawthorn, common dogwood, field maple and blackthorn.
The county council declared a climate emergency back in 2020 and has adopted an ambitious new roadmap towards becoming a carbon neutral organisation by 2030.
The Towards Net Zero Plan 2022-2025 is providing a co-ordinated council response to climate change whilst promoting a cultural shift to ensure that services minimise all greenhouse gas emissions as much as possible.
AONB community warden, Joseff Davies explained, “We are very excited to be working with the Probation Service at various sites where we can really make a difference to the local area. This tree planting project is creating a native hedgerow that will provide a habitat corridor for local wildlife as well as creating a secure boundary for our tree nursery and allotments.”
He added, “We’re keen to get as many groups as possible involved in our tree nursery projects as community involvement will be essential to its success. We’d also like to place on record our thanks to the Probation Service for their support with the work.”
Councillor Nicola Roberts, portfolio holder for planning, public protection and climate change said, “This is a fantastic project and one that will support our aim of tackling climate change and assist in nature recovery. Planting the trees supports the aims and objectives set out in the council’s biodiversity plan to help tackle climate change.”
She added, “Over time, these trees will make a positive contribution to the environment by removing carbon from the atmosphere. The allotments will also help residents to connect with nature whilst also being good for people’s mental and physical well-being. I’d like also thank officers for their work in attaining the grant funding to make the work possible.”
The North Wales Probation Service will continue to work with the countryside and AONB unit in future projects to improve the condition of the Anglesey countryside.
ENDS 4 April 2023