A new woodland in North Wales honors Covid victims with vibrant benches and a space for community gatherings and reflection
Wrexham: A beautiful new memorial woodland has opened in North Wales. It’s a special place to remember those we lost to Covid-19. The site covers 22 acres of lush land.
Called Hafod y Bwch Commemorative Woodland, it’s part of the Erddig estate. At the center, there’s a lovely wildflower meadow. This area is perfect for picnics and community events.
One standout feature is the 20 colorful benches. Designed by artist Rachel Jones, they come in shades of pink, red, and yellow. Each color represents a different local plant, adding joy to the space.
They’ve planted around 13,000 trees, mostly native species. These trees are chosen for their resilience to climate change. They’ll also help block noise from nearby roads.
First Minister Eluned Morgan is excited about the woodland. She believes it’s a fitting tribute to those who suffered during the pandemic. It’s a beautiful way to honor their memory.
She mentioned that as the trees grow, they’ll symbolize renewal. This space will help people connect with nature, which is great for our well-being.
This woodland is the first of three planned for Wales. It’s part of the National Forest for Wales initiative, created with the Welsh Government’s support.
Another unique feature is a series of lettered bricks near a pond. These bricks spell out a poem by Hanan Issa, the National Poet of Wales. It reflects on loss and the healing power of nature.
Lhosa Daly from the National Trust Cymru shared that this project aligns with their mission. They aim to create spaces where people can enjoy nature and find peace.
Plans for two more memorial woodlands are already underway in Carmarthenshire and Caerphilly. It’s a wonderful way to remember and connect with our community.
