How Green Is My Valley

Blooming marvellous was the verdict of all who attended the official opening of the Abercwmboi Community Garden.

Deputy Mayor Cllr Simon Lloyd was guest of honour at the event, which marked the end of a successful community-based project in the area.

The garden is the work of Cleaner, Greener Communities, Abercwmboi Environmental Group and Abercwmboi Communities First, working alongside a wide range of residents.

The important scheme saw the remarkable transformation of the former derelict allotments into a stunning asset for all to enjoy. Residents had wanted to complete the regeneration for some time, but lacked the skills, experience and support needed to complete such a scheme.

Thanks to the input of Cleaner, Greener Communities, they were able to secure the funding, project management, advice and training they need to not only create the garden, but also maintain it for future generations to enjoy.

Cleaner, Greener Communities is an environmental scheme funded by the Welsh Assembly Government’s Heads of the Valleys initiative. It is a partnership between Keep Wales Tidy, BCTV Cymru and Groundwork and aims to work with community groups across the area on schemes such as this.

Cllr Loyd said: “It was an honour to attend the event and see just what can happen when so many partners join forces and work towards a common aim.

“The community of Abercwmboi should be proud of its new community garden and I hope when they visit it and enjoy it, it brings home to them what an inspiring community they live within.”

Christine Chapman AM also attended the launch. She concluded: “I am very impressed with the work the local community has undertaken to create such an exciting site.

“I wish to congratulate the organisations and people who have made this happen, especially the volunteers who worked so enthusiastically on this project.

“I am pleased that the Welsh Assembly Government is providing concrete help to local communities to change the quality of their life through the Heads of the Valleys programme.

“A scheme like this encourages community cohesion and the long-term involvement of residents is essential for the long-term sustainability of this project. It also promotes healthy outdoor activities, as people can help out or just relax and enjoy the spectacular views across the valley!”