A community garden, designed to be a sanctuary for people and wildlife, has been opened at a Welshpool housing estate.

A piece of land at an affordable housing development in Welshpool which was transformed by Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust (MWT), is now open to the public.

The piece of land, located in Clos Gungrog on Gallowstree Bank, has been turned into a wildlife garden that can be enjoyed and cared for by its residents.

The garden was funded by Barcud housing association and developed by MWT Head of People & Wildlife Carla Evans and MWT Conservation Officer Andy Davies, supported by the Trust’s Wild Skills Wild Spaces team and local volunteers.

Mr Davies said: “The site has been designed with both wildlife and community in mind. Features have been incorporated to provide an attractive, easy to maintain space for residents that simultaneously offers homes, food and water for many different types of animal.

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“Fruit trees that will blossom in sequence have been chosen so that a source of nectar is provided for pollinators throughout spring, with cherries, plums and apples providing food for birds and insects from late summer into autumn.

“Meanwhile, the cinders path leads to a picnic area with wonderful views of the Montgomery Canal for the whole community to enjoy.”

Created from rubble and concrete, the outdoor area now boasts low-maintenance raised beds, a herb garden, a young orchard, ponds and a picnic area overlooking the Montgomery Canal, along with interpretation signage about the features and how they benefit people and wildlife.

Geraint Roberts, Barcud Senior Development Officer, said: “We’re delighted with the outcome of this project. The finished garden provides an enjoyable space for residents of all ages to meet, spend time, and learn about the surrounding wildlife. It is a real asset for nearby residents and the wider community, and we hope it will be well used for years to come.”

Frances Louise, MWT Wild Skills Wild Spaces Project Manager, added: “It was reassuring to hear that everyone who attended the launch event said they will benefit from and make use of this space, with others happy to be informal custodians for the garden.”