A NEW phase of woodland creation across Denbighshire is welcoming volunteers.

Denbighshire County Council is readying for work to develop woodlands at Ffordd Parc Bodnant in Prestatyn and Dol Corwenna in Corwen, as well as tree planting in residential areas around Rhyl and Prestatyn.

Work is due to start on the projects in February and completed by the end of March.

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

The council also committed to becoming become Net Carbon Zero and more Ecologically Positive Council by 2030.

The new wooded areas and hedgerows will support achieving the council’s Ecologically Positive target by increasing wildlife connectivity and the species richness of the local land.

Nearly 5,000 new trees were planted last year at four sites in addition to the planting of over 18,000 across the county as part of the council’s Corporate Plan 2017-22 focus on the preservation of the natural environment and also the maintaining and enhancing biodiversity within the county.

The new 2023 woodland creation work will help the council achieve that carbon zero goal by contributing to the amount of carbon sequestered (or absorbed).

Up to 10,000 trees are due to be planted at the new chosen sites, including local schools.

Supported by the council’s climate change team and countryside services, volunteers last year helped develop sites at Ruthin and Rhyl.

And the opportunity is open again for anyone wishing to support their own community’s role in tackling climate change or those with a general interest in landscape development.

READ MORE: Budding Denbighshire initiative continues to branch out

Cllr Barry Mellor, Denbighshire's lead member for environment and transport, said: “Keeping our woodland creation project moving is crucial for us in tackling climate change, especially after a successful year in 2022.

“Enhancing these sites will give back areas to communities in Rhyl, Prestatyn and Corwen to visit and enjoy with family and friends and learn about the biodiversity we have across the county.

“If you are interested in making a difference against climate change in your own community, want to help create a great area for local residents to be proud of or are just simply keen on brushing up your green-fingered skills, we want to hear from you.

“Residents can get involved with the project at each of the sites by joining the tree planting days and any other volunteer or training opportunities.”

Anybody who would like to volunteer at any of the sites can e-mail biodiversity@denbighshire.gov.uk