DENBIGHSHIRE Council has launched a public engagement to support the creation of woodland areas across the county.

The two-week long survey period will seek the views of residents regarding the creation of four woodland sites in Denbighshire.

These are planned for Ruthin’s Llanrhydd Street and Cae Ddol, Maes Esgob at Dyserth and Maes Gwilym in Rhyl, to tackle climate change and help nature’s recovery.

In July 2019, the council passed a motion to declare a Climate Change and Ecological Emergency.

A cross party-political working group was established to oversee the development of a Climate and Ecological Change Strategy.

This strategy was approved by council in February 2021, committing the council to become Net Carbon Zero and a more ecologically positive council by 2030.

This includes reducing the council’s carbon emissions from several sources.

This woodland creation project will help the council achieve that carbon zero goal by contributing to the amount of carbon sequestered (or absorbed).

Additionally, to achieve the ecologically positive target, and help nature’s recovery, the council must increase the species richness of its land.

Mixed broadleaf and yew woodland is in the top three species richness habitats so any work to increase woodland in council ownership will support this target.

Cllr Tony Thomas, lead member for Housing and Communities, said: “This woodland creation project is important to help us tackle climate change in Denbighshire and your feedback through this survey is important to us to help map out the future for these sites.

“We want to hear your thoughts on the woodland designs including preferences for chosen celebration trees at each site, seating at the sites and ideas for information signage for each woodland.

“The council is also keen to hear if residents would like to get involved with each site such as the tree planting day and any other volunteering or training opportunities."

All responses must be received by Sunday, November 14.

For Cae Ddol visit https://countyconversation.denbighshire.gov.uk/project/633 and Llanrhydd Street https://countyconversation.denbighshire.gov.uk/project/632