Green space is sometimes seen as a “nice to have”, but for us it’s much more important than that.

The Welsh Government has declared a climate emergency, highlighting the need for organisations and communities to protect and manage natural resources for the benefit of people, wildlife and future generations.
Across Blaenau Gwent, we care for more than 100 acres of green space. How these areas are managed and shared has a real impact on wellbeing, biodiversity and community pride.
We are always looking for ways to improve our outdoor spaces. This includes planting wildflowers, reducing grass cutting in selected areas, creating community orchards and supporting food-growing gardens. These spaces provide important habitats for wildlife while also giving people places to walk, learn, grow food, relax and connect with nature and each other.
In 2024, we launched our native tree nursery in partnership with Sirhowy Hill Woodlands. This forms part of our wider 30-year Woodland and Green Spaces Strategy, which was shaped by feedback from local communities. Through this work, along with a range of projects and events, we continue to support local groups, schools, and residents in protecting and improving green spaces across the borough.
We have also introduced a dedicated in-house tree team, allowing us to give more attention to the care and management of our existing trees. This helps protect and strengthen this important natural resource for wildlife and future generations.
Projects such as hedgehog highways, bug hotels, and our Bee Friendly accreditation all help support local wildlife. Just as importantly, they help people reconnect with nature, which can improve mental wellbeing, reduce stress and bring communities together.
Well-maintained and welcoming green spaces help neighbourhoods thrive. At the same time, we recognise the importance of balancing maintenance with protecting the natural environment. That’s why we see caring for our land not simply as grounds maintenance, but as a long-term investment in both our communities and the environment.