Local volunteers are transforming a neglected area of parkland into a community wildlife garden and outdoor learning space.
The Friends of Pontnewydd Park group is turning a former rose garden into an accessible community wildlife garden with improved paths, wildflower beds, canal boat shaped planters, a flowering pollinator stone wall and woodland play and learning spaces.
The transformation is the latest chapter in the group's ongoing revival of the former miners' welfare park in Cwmbran - supported by the new Torfaen Deal, which aims to empower communities to tackle local issues.
As part of the project, the Friends group have consulted with local residents and schools and provided the manpower, with the council helping the group to develop the plans and secure funding.
The council's Healthy Planet, Healthy People team and volunteer Nature Connectors will continue to support the project through community engagement activities and events.
Councillor Sue Morgan, Pontnewydd Councillor and Executive member for Sustainability and Waste, said: "The Friends of Pontnewydd Park are showing what can be achieved when communities come together with a shared vision.
“Through enthusiasm and commitment we are helping to create a park that can be enjoyed by residents of all ages and serves as a valuable community asset. And we are having a lot of fun in the process.
"Through the Torfaen Deal, the Council is supporting projects that make a real difference to local people, and this is a fantastic example of community action delivering lasting benefits."
Chris Morgan, Chair of the Friends of Pontnewydd Park, said: "It's such an exciting project and we have had great engagement already in shaping the plans and starting to transform this area of the park.
"The community wildlife garden will be a tranquil, flower-filled space for everyone to enjoy. We have already planted a commemorative silver birch tree sponsored by Cwmbran Community Council and will install a circular bench around it in the Spring.
"The area closest to the canal will become a forest school with a bird hide, while the raised beds could be cared for by local schools, nurseries and disability groups. We can't wait for local people to see the plans and get involved with shaping and delivering the garden."
The project has received almost £15,000 from The National Lottery Community Fund's Sustainable Steps programme and was developed with support from Egin consultants and Torfaen Council.
Recent sponsorship from Morgan Sindall has also helped the group reinstate park toilets for use by community groups and schools.
Residents interested in supporting the Friends of Pontnewydd Park group can contact Chris Morgan, 07812176852, Chrismorgan59@gmail.com
Anyone interested in transforming an area of land near them can get advice from Kris Thobroe, Local Places for Nature Delivery Officer, Kristen.Thobroe@torfaen.gov.uk