Improving green infrastructure for some of the most deprived areas of Wrexham 

 

The Public Health and Wellbeing team are in the middle of evaluating a project to make a series of environmental improvements for residents living in the Caia Park and Plas Madoc areas of Wrexham. By enlisting the help of key partners, such as North Wales Wildlife Trust, Keep Wales Tidy, and Wrexham County Borough Council, the project has sought to embed the work within the community and improve the resilience of the local ecosystem. 

One strand of the project will involve building volunteer capacity within the parks, engaging residents who care for their green spaces to improve the residential area for all. By involving the local community in the work to manage the areas, not only will this bring wellbeing benefits, but also enable a greater sense of ownership and cohesion amongst residents. 

Another strand of the work will involve structural tree planting to reduce the noise and air pollution from the heavy traffic along the nearby main A road. Being surrounded by greenery and nature brings immeasurable health and wellbeing benefits. 

So far, the researchers have conducted key partner and stakeholder interviews to investigate what matters to them the most. Their reflections have been invaluable in learning about the challenges, strengths, and key learnings regarding the community infrastructure in these geographical areas, not to mention informing the team of potential long-term project impacts.  

This exciting project aims to be completed later this year, so look out for the reports and a promotional video.