03 Aug 2023

Cynon Valley Organic Adventures have added a spark of magic to their five-acre piece of land, thanks to support from Transport for Wales (TfW). 

The social enterprise, that promotes sustainable practices, environmental conservation, and community involvement in Abercynon, received funding from TfW for the creation and development of a ‘magical fairyland railway garden’.  

They also offer accredited learning to suit all needs, volunteer placements, social prescription activities, corporate volunteer days and regular community activities and events.  

The garden, created and used by young people attending the site, includes sensory planting, organic magical features such as rocks, toadstools and wind chimes, a moon gate and an outdoor learning space known locally as the ‘hobbit house.’

Across the site wildlife boxes have been installed and funding has also helped with the development of a bee project for schools and young people in the area.

Supporting physical and mental health and well-being, engaging with young people and schools and providing opportunities to connect with nature and the surrounding landscape, physically and imaginary, was the driving force behind this idea. 

Janis Werrett, Director for Cynon Valley Organics, said: “We rented the derelict land in 2018 with a view to helping people improve wellbeing through education and engagement in nature.  Five years on we own the land and have some amazing partners that support our work and help us to thrive. 

“Thanks to the funding and support from Transport for Wales we have been able to expand our work with the local schools. Our hobbit house will be the base for our classes, and we’ve built our sensory and magical gardens. The funding has also been utilised across the whole site, with new fruit trees being planted and our orchard and Celtic wildflower area being created.”

Dr. Louise Moon, TfW Heritage and Sustainable Impact Manager added: “We were thrilled to have the opportunity to work in partnership with Cynon Valley Organic Adventures to develop this magical-themed green space running alongside both an active travel route and railway line - a first for our network in Wales. Collaboration with communities we serve is deeply important to us and it enables us to deliver a shared legacy in which transport positively contributes to our communities and environment now and in the future.” 

The project has been funded by us, managed by the Heritage and Sustainable Impact Team and delivered by Community Rail. With materials donated to the group by the Craidd Alliance. The site will also be a confident traveller destination for TfW.