Dimbath Woodland Regeneration
Blackmill, Bridgend | In partnership with Valleys to Coast
Working alongside Valleys to Coast, Greenspace SOS has helped transform Dimbath Woodland from a largely inaccessible woodland into a welcoming natural space for local communities and wildlife.
Our team delivered a range of practical improvements, including the construction of woodland pathways, timber boardwalks, an outdoor classroom and new A-frame access points. We also installed cycle racks and litter bins, undertook fencing and gate repairs, and removed fly-tipped waste from the site.
One particularly interesting feature was the construction of a purpose-built otter hide overlooking the river. Following reports of otter sightings from local residents, the hide was created to provide a quiet space for visitors to observe the river and its wildlife.
These improvements have made the woodland more accessible and created new opportunities for local schools, families, residents and visitors to enjoy the natural environment. The outdoor classroom provides a dedicated space for environmental education, while the pathways, boardwalks and wildlife observation facilities encourage exploration, recreation and a closer connection with nature.
The wider regeneration project has also involved local schools and colleges in environmental education activities. These have included a session with 18 horticulture students and three lecturers from Pencoed College, alongside an event at Bettws Primary School attended by 150 pupils from 10 local schools. The children decorated wooden rounds to create a tree sculpture intended for display in the woodland's outdoor classroom.
“The kids loved learning about the woodland and how it’s good for your mind and body to be out in nature. We can’t wait to visit Coed Bach Dimbath!” - Bettws Primary School
Together, the physical improvements and community activities demonstrate how woodland regeneration can support outdoor learning, community wellbeing and greater appreciation of local wildlife and natural spaces.
Project partner: Valleys to Coast
Project funding: The Woodland Investment Grant (TWIG), delivered by the National Lottery Heritage Fund in partnership with the Welsh Government's National Forest for Wales Programme, with additional Welsh Government funding.
Green Earth Schools
Cardiff | In partnership with Earthwatch Europe
Working in partnership with Earthwatch Europe, with funding support from Admiral Group, Greenspace SOS helped transform outdoor spaces at Stacey Primary School, Ninian Park Primary School and St Mary the Virgin Primary School, all in Cardiff, into gardens designed to support biodiversity, outdoor education and children's connection with nature.
As part of Earthwatch Europe's Green Earth Schools programme, our team constructed a range of features including raised growing beds, a wildflower bank, wildlife habitats, bug hotels, fruit tree planting, composting facilities and a raised wildlife pond. We also installed pathways, a polytunnel and communal outdoor classroom seating, creating practical spaces for pupils and teachers to learn, grow and explore.
The gardens provide opportunities for children to experience nature firsthand, develop an understanding of food production and sustainability, and learn about the importance of protecting local wildlife. Features such as the pond, wildflower planting and bug hotels create opportunities to observe biodiversity, while the growing beds, fruit trees and polytunnel support hands-on horticultural learning.
An important part of our involvement was facilitating corporate volunteering days for Admiral employees, who contributed their time and effort to help bring the gardens to life. These sessions provided opportunities for businesses to engage directly with environmental projects while supporting local schools and communities.
Together, the three gardens demonstrate how school grounds can be transformed into valuable outdoor learning environments, combining practical horticulture, biodiversity improvements and community involvement.
Project partner: Green Earth Schools – Earthwatch Europe
Funding partner: Admiral Group
