In 2024, Porthkerry Country Park was awarded a £249,676 grant investment by The National Lottery Fund in partnership with the Welsh Government, enabling us to make significant improvements to the country park and its wooded areas. We have continued our pledge to improve the woodland biodiversity and habitat management throughout Porthkerry. The installation of a 900m footpath will reduce the degradation and erosion of surrounding areas from footfall and trampling. We are continuing to fight back against invasive species like Japanese Knotweed in order to ensure that we are able to preserve the population of native trees, plants and inspects. This grant will allow for the purchase of new tools and equipment that volunteers and partners can use to more effectively manage the wooded areas. The funding will enable extensive conservation work to take place and restore and protect vital habitats to ensure the woodland continues to thrive. The project will also help Porthkerry Country Park continue its status as member of the National Forest for Wales, which it was awarded in November 2023. This is another example of how the council’s Project Zero initiative is helping to reshape our local parks and spaces to improve biodiversity and create areas for residents to enjoy for years to come.