Penllergare Trust

The Penllergare Trust was formally established in the year 2000 with the aim of protecting, restoring and maintaining the cultural landscape of Penllergare Valley Woods and developing it into an outstanding heritage site, recreational green space and wildlife reserve.
The regeneration of this unique and special place has been underpinned by a programme of community action, engagement and education involving guided walks, school visits, volunteering, and training in practical conservation work. Over 2,000 children and teenagers have taken part in the Trust’s Wild for Woods educational programme, and volunteer work teams have helped in clearing scrub, tree planting and the construction of new pathways through the site. The Trust has made particular efforts to engage local communities and of the 80,000 visitors in 2012, it is estimated that about 90% are local.
The Trust has recently secured a long-term lease for the site and a substantial Heritage Lottery Funding to restore historic features, improve access and install visitor facilities.
The judges commented on the passion and enthusiasm of staff. They said it was an incredible story and an excellent example of community involvement.

2012 Community Project Award runners up