Apply now for a free garden pack

Local Places for Nature is back!

We’re excited to announce that applications for our Local Places for Nature scheme have reopened, and we have hundreds of free garden packages to give away to community groups and organisations.

Since launching in 2020, more than 1,000 gardens have been created, restored and enhanced across Wales. Community groups and organisations of all shapes and sizes have been involved. Last year, this included emergency services, youth groups, sports clubs and disability charities.

Local Places for Nature was first and foremost developed to help fight the climate and nature emergencies. But the benefits have gone far beyond creating vital habitats for wildlife; the new gardens have helped bring communities together and provided a much-needed boost to people’s health and wellbeing. We can’t wait to see more groups and organisations getting involved over the coming months, creating new spaces for nature that will be enjoyed for generations. We’re expecting a lot of interest, so apply now to avoid disappointment.

Owen Derbyshire
Chief Executive for Keep Wales Tidy

What’s included in a Local Places for Nature package?

The free packages range from small gardening projects to community orchards and large-scale makeovers. Each one includes native plants, tools and materials, guidance on how to install the garden, and practical support from our expert project officers.

This year you can choose from:

Starter Packages for groups looking to take on a small food growing or wildlife gardening project.

Development Packages for community-based organisations who are ready to take on a bigger transformation, creating a large-scale Food Growing Garden or Wildlife Garden.

Community Orchards – back by popular demand! Your opportunity to create a small orchard for your community to enjoy.

How do I apply?

It’s a simple process. Just choose your package, read through the guidance, and complete the online application form making sure you answer all the questions.

If you need support with your application, we have regional coordinators on hand to support you through the process.

Priority will be given to projects with strong community involvement, as well as those in towns, cities, deprived areas and spaces with little or no access to nature. We’re also really keen to welcome applications from underrepresented groups across Wales.

Applications are assessed fortnightly by project grant panels.

> Find out more and apply

The initiative is funded by the Welsh Government as part of a wider Welsh Government ‘Local Places for Nature’ programme.

Check out #BacktoNature on social media for all the latest updates