A vibrant community green space is bringing nature, creativity and positivity to Georgetown

A vibrant community green space has been successfully created between Chapel Row and Chapel Banks, bringing nature, creativity and positivity to Georgetown.

Following concerns raised by local residents regarding antisocial behaviour, Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council’s Biodiversity Team developed an ambitious plan to reimagine the space. Working in partnership and consultation with the Chief Executive and local community members, and made possible via the Shared Prosperity Fund, the team has delivered a project that not only enhances safety but celebrates biodiversity, wellbeing and our local heritage.

A newly created pathway, edged with wooden borders and finished with red stone dust and wood chippings, now winds through the site. Eleven carefully selected trees, including Downy Birch and Field Maple, support hundreds of insect species, as well as play their part by improving air quality and helping to create natural sound and wind buffers for local residents.

Sustainability remains central to the project. Soil from the path works was repurposed to create a wildlife-friendly insect bank, seeded with wildflowers and complemented by a central bug hotel. Striking Corten steel art panels, bee habitat towers crafted from Welsh wood, benches and educational signage further enrich the space, aligning with the Council’s pollinator and grassland strategies.

Interactive play features including a large wooden snail, bee table, wildlife totems, magnifying post and nature rubbing stations, provide fun opportunities for families of all ages to reconnect with nature.

Early feedback has been positive. One local resident shared: “I bring my grandchildren here any chance we can get. They love playing on the snail and using the magnifying post and I can sit on the bench and watch them.”

A true highlight of the transformation project is the community orchard, featuring nine fruit trees, including locally cultivated Pride of the Valley apples, heritage Morgan Sweet apples and a Welsh Cariad Cherry tree. The orchard will offer free seasonal produce for Merthyr Tydfil residents while supporting the wildlife, with potential for future community events such as apple juice-making sessions.

With additional enhancements already planned, including log seating and pollinator-friendly planting sessions, this restored green space promises to remain a valued community asset for years to come. Watch this space!