New nature trails to open the secrets of Bryngarw

Bridgend County Borough Council’s Healthy living service are creating a series of specially designed nature trails at Bryngarw Country Park in Brynmenyn, Bridgend; further adding to the appeal of this award-winning facility that boasts Bridgend County Borough Council’s largest park landscapes.

With the help of grant funding three new trails will be developed which are designed to be self-guided with an interpretative map and leaflet containing information about the trails, including interesting park features and wildlife to be encountered along the way. There is also a fold-out guide designed to ensure visitors get as much as possible out of their experience.

Cllr Lyn Morgan, Cabinet Member for Wellbeing said: “Part of the secret to Bryngarw’s strength and appeal is the sheer diversity of habitats and landscapes found within a relatively small area. The trails have been designed to take in all of these diverse elements and once completed, these types of developments will help to ensure the park maintains its Green Flag status as being one of the best country parks in Wales."

New way-marker posts have also been purchased which are currently being installed with the help of the park’s volunteer group, who recently won a Mayor’s Citizenship Award for their role and achievements in helping the rangers to carry out vital conservation work within the park.

Park volunteer Leigh Forman says: “The nature trail will map out an easy to follow route that may take even a seasoned visitor to some corners of the park they didn't realise existed. The best view has to be at the top end of the meadow walk, there in front of you is the Garw Valley - quite unexpected and spectacular.”

The park boasts stunning, bluebell-carpeted woodlands, wildflower meadows buzzing with life and colour, secluded wetlands, ponds and lakes and of course the Garw river corridor, all of which are waiting to be discovered. The creation of these nature trails is likely to be completed in the autumn.

If you would like to learn more about Bryngarw Country Park and the volunteer programme please contact the rangers office on 01656 725155, email: bryngarwpark@bridgend.gov.uk, or visit: www.bryngarwhouse.co.uk.

Bryngarw Country Park voted number 13 as the ‘people’s choice’ destination in the top 50 valleys essentials.