Biodiversity is getting a boost at Forest Farm following a successful bid for funding that will see a range of habitats at the popular nature reserve enhanced and restored.

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Woodland, scrub, ponds, wetlands, orchard, hedgerow and grassland at the site will all benefit from a £60,000 grant from Network Rail’s Greater West Programme.

Working with partner organisations Buglife and Plantlife as well as the Friends of Forest Farm, the project also includes plans to survey the site and train a pool of volunteers to assist with future surveys so that the impact of the work on the flora and fauna found at the site can be measured.

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Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, Cllr Peter Bradbury, said: “Protecting and enhancing Cardiff’s green space is one of our key priorities and the work that will be carried out as a result of this funding will have a really positive impact on the diverse range of habitats at Forest Farm, as well as improving the recreational value and visitor experience at the site.”

Environmental Manager for Network Rail, Emmanuel Deschamps, said: “It is fantastic to be able to support this project which will boost a range of habitats at this much-loved nature reserve. Projects like this are invaluable and help to maintain and improve green spaces for the benefit of people and wildlife.”

The Forest Farm site provides an important connectivity corridor, linking in with B-Lines (a Wales-wide connectivity corridor for pollinators and other wildlife) meaning the benefits for biodiversity generated by the project could reach beyond the borders of the 59.68 hectare site.