A “VERY EXCITING” new eco-project has begun in Blaenau Ffestiniog.

The development of a community wildlife garden by the Bro Ffestiniog Allotment Association has finally started after more than half a decade of hard work by local action groups.

In 2011, 24 plots of land were offered out to the community to rent to grow plants, fruits and vegetables.

Next to the allotment site is a disused area which is considered a “rich” ecosystem.

The allotment association has been eager to develop the area as a space for the local community to enjoy and provide another resource for local people and tourists alike. Now, thanks to grant funding from CIST Gwynedd, work to realise this project has begun.

In collaboration with Y Dref Werdd, the allotment association have employed the services of local contractor, Gwasanaethau Cwm, from Trawsfynydd, to construct the wildlife park.

The contractors will create a path that will provide all-ability access to the garden with an area that will include a wheelchair-friendly picnic table overlooking a man-made pond.

Compost bays have also been built along with a rough path leading through the site.

Further work will be done in the coming months such as the planting of a small fruit tree orchard, a space for outdoor activities such as bushcraft skills and training using scythes to cut the rushes, grass and brambles in the garden as part of the maintenance during the summer months.

Read the full story in Thursday’s Meirionnydd edition of the Cambrian News