Anglesey County Council has secured funding for two new projects which will enhance biodiversity and create a richer habitat for wildlife.

The Welsh Government has awarded the authority with a £36,096.70 grant specifically aimed enhancing biodiversity around Council premises, through the Local Nature Partnership.

Two new fully-planted native species ponds are proposed for Coed Plas/Coed Smyrna in Nant y Pandy Local Nature Reserve (The Dingle), Llangefni with nearby foot access for the public. The ponds will be adjacent to the path that meanders through the woodland, and will help create a home for a whole host of species, including amphibians such as frogs, toads and newts.

Existing grassland on the grounds around the Llangefni Library and the main County Council Offices will also be transformed into wildlife meadow. The wildflower meadow will be of significant importance in supporting pollinators through providing a source of food and shelter throughout the year. Other species on site that will benefit from an enhanced habitat include red squirrels, kingfishers and otters.

Both projects will also involve the planting of native species that are most beneficial to wildlife, providing them with food and shelter throughout the year. The richer wildlife and greenery is also hoped to improve mental health and well-being. Work is expected to begin later this month, with early results hoped to be visible in Springtime 2021.

Planning Built and Natural Environment Manager, John Williams, explained, “We are very excited to begin this work in the coming weeks. Places where people work and travel through will be visibly greener and, in so doing, this will also enhance biodiversity and the well-being of our residents and staff.”

He added, “As a Local Authority we are very grateful to Welsh Government for providing this funding, and we are looking forward to seeing the positive impact these projects will have.”

Planning portfolio holder, Councillor Richard Dew, added, “These projects will make good use of funding specifically aimed at improving biodiversity on land owned by local authorities. These projects are very welcome as they also will complement the significant work currently being undertaken by our officers to reduce the County Council’s carbon footprint.”

Ends 08.09.2020