A COMMUNITY scheme to create a garden project for sheltered flats in the Vale of Clwyd is taking shape thanks to Keep Wales Tidy and volunteers.

The scheme at Ruthin's Llys Erw, a sheltered complex run by Clwyd Alyn Housing Association, includes a greenhouse, tool shed, raised beds for fruit, fruit trees and bulbs for planting.

Mair Davies, Local Places for Nature coordinator from Keep Wales Tidy, said: “This Local Places for Nature project is part of more than 250 packs we’ve distributed throughout Wales this year and there are more in the pipeline for the Denbighshire area.

"Our role is to help with applications, make sure community groups without bank accounts can access help and then we make sure that it’s a sustainable project with volunteers in the community to continue with the work once the schemes are established.

“In Llys Erw, we’ve worked closely with Elwyn Jones of Clwyd Alyn Housing Association as well as local residents and the project is shaping up nicely."

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North Wales MS Llyr Gruffydd is based in Ruthin and he put the final touches to the raised beds by attaching the sign.

He said: “The pack is a substantial amount of kit that will transform community areas such as Llys Erw.

"It’s already a very busy and well-used community space used by surrounding residents and the wider community.

"There are plans to enable residents to grow more of the food they eat as well as reduce energy bills through renewable energy projects so the new raised beds fit in perfectly.

"Given the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, it’s also good to know that Llys Erw can offer a warm space and food residents of the complex.

“I look forward to returning next year to enjoy some of the fruits – literally – of their labour.”

Since the ‘Local Places for Nature’ scheme launched in 2020, more than 900 gardens have been created, restored and enhanced across Wales.

The initiative is jointly funded by the Welsh Government, part of a wider Welsh Government ‘Local Places for Nature’ programme committed to creating, restoring and enhancing nature ‘on your doorstep’ and The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

To apply for a free garden pack, people can visit the Keep Wales Tidy website at www.keepwalestidy.cymru/nature