From Forgotten Field to Award-Winning Green Space Transformation
A community garden in Dyffryn Ardudwy celebrates three years of growth and plans for an even brighter future ahead
Dyffryn Ardudwy, Wales, Y Tir, Community Garden, Green Flag Award, Sustainable Food
Dyffryn Ardudwy: A community garden project is celebrating its third anniversary. It’s been quite a journey, and they’re excited about what’s next.
Three years back, the site was just a wild patch of bracken, waiting for someone to bring it to life. Now, it’s a vibrant garden with 27 allotment plots and a strong local support network.
Y Tir has really blossomed into a success story, earning awards for its commitment to sustainability and community involvement. It’s amazing to see how far they’ve come.
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Founder Kathleen Aikman had a big vision, and turning that into reality took a lot of hard work. There were grants to apply for, paperwork to handle, and a diverse group of volunteers to coordinate.
“None of this would have been possible without the awesome effort and dedication of the Y Tir team, our plot holders and our landlord, ADRA,” Kathleen shared.
With support from ADRA, they’ve learned a lot along the way. Now, they’re looking ahead to the next three years, planning to become a Charitable Interest Organization to tackle even bigger projects.
They’re dreaming up fun ideas like a willow fort and expanding their network with Friends of Y Tir. In a time when many face rising costs and loneliness, places like Y Tir are crucial. They offer a chance to connect with nature and each other.
“Y Tir isn’t just a garden,” says trustee Tracy Brookes. “It’s proof that when we work together, we can nurture not just the land, but also our connections and our wellbeing.”
The Y Tir team welcomes everyone to join in—whether it’s volunteering, attending workshops, or just enjoying the beauty of the space. They want to keep growing, both as a garden and a symbol of hope.
Since launching in May 2021, the not-for-profit group has been proud to share their homegrown produce. Winning the Green Flag Award has motivated them to keep moving forward, creating new attractions and planting more fruit trees.