THE first six projects that will form part of a Wales-wide network of woodlands are each getting a share of more than £1million in grants.

Among these plans is one aiming to replace a coniferous woodland with native trees in a coastal location on the Llŷn Peninsula in Gwynedd.

Ymddiriedolaeth Nant Gwrtheyrn is receiving £209,060 for the “Coedwig Nant Gwrtheyrn” project.

On the Llŷn Peninsula, this project will re-establish a native woodland on the steep coastal slopes surrounding Nant Gwrtheyrn.

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The current coniferous trees are old and deteriorating rapidly and the dangerous condition of the trees and challenging terrain means even experienced hikers can’t get to the woodland.

The woodland is an important part of the natural heritage of this spectacular setting for visitors.

It’s also important to the wider community as tourism focused on the Llŷn Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is key to the economy.

This project will connect Nant Gwrtheyrn to businesses in the nearby village of Llithfaen.

The money has come from The Woodland Investment Grant (TWIG) – part of the Welsh Government’s National Forest programme.

The grant programme is run by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and it works to create, restore and enhance woodlands in Wales.

Minister for climate change, Julie James, said: “It’s been lovely to see the range of applicants awarded grants in the first round of The Woodland Investment Grant – from a new woodland in a school in Barry to the restoration of a degraded woodland on the Llŷn Peninsula.

“With more funding rounds to go, we want more people to come forward and apply for funding so they can grow beautiful outdoor spaces for their local community.

“We all benefit from woodlands- they help us and wildlife live healthier lives, they improve our wellbeing, and help us mitigate the worst impacts of climate change.”

The TWIG programme was launched by The National Lottery Heritage Fund in June 2022 and it provides grants of between £40,000 and £250,000.

This is the first round of five during the next couple of years.

Andrew White, director of The National Lottery Heritage Fund in Wales, said: “Funding natural heritage projects which help tackle the effects of climate change and support nature’s recovery is a key priority for The National Lottery Heritage Fund in Wales.

“The Woodland Investment Grant in partnership with the Welsh Government is just one of the ways that we are meeting this objective.

“From the creation of new woodlands and the restoration of others, these grants will also contribute to the National Forest for Wales initiative, enhance capacity to adapt to the climate crisis and bring direct health benefits to the people and communities involved.”

The other five projects will be based in Pembrokeshire, Bridgend, Pontypridd, Barry, and at the Llanddegfedd Reservoir.