A 94-hectare site in Carmarthenshire has been named as one of Wales' two commemorative woodlands which will be planted in memory of those who died during the covid pandemic.

Following a competitive tender exercise in August 2020 run by Natural Resources Wales and National Trust Cymru, Brownhill was pronounced the clear winner.  It is situated in the heart of the Tywi Valley between Llangadog and Llandovery.

The announcement was made this week by First Minister Mark Drakeford.

"Too many peope have been taken too soon by this awful virus and we will remember all of them and keep them in our hearts and minds," he said. 

"These woodlands will be a permanent and living memorial to all those who have died and will also be a symbol of the strength the people of Wales have shown over the last two years."

Natural Resources Wales confirmed that the 94-hectare site was chosen because of its close proximity to major roads, train stations and the more densely populated areas of south Wales.  But there were a number of additional factors which played an important factor in its selection.  These included:

The importance of the surrounding countryside, namely the River Tywi which is a SAC (Special Area of Conservation) and an SSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest).  The new woodland will create habitat connectivity with mature hedgrows and existing ancient trees.

The site lends itself to opportunities for floodplain restoration including the reduction of diffuse pollution and flood risk;

The soils are well-suited for woodland planting;

The ground is flat which will easily accommodate accessible trails.

The woodlands will be planted with a range of tree species, making them resilient to the changing environment and planting is expected to begin later this year.

Natural Resources Wales and National Trust Cymru will work with local communities and families to plan and design the woodlands.

“Our ambition is for this woodland to become a living, growing area for all the community to enjoy, as well as a quiet space for contemplation as we continue to navigate this most challenging of times", commented Clare Pillman, chief executive of Natural Resources Wales.

“We now want to engage with local communities and our partners to plan and design the woodland, shaping with them safe and accessible spaces where people of all ages can come to remember and reflect for years to come."

Meanwhile Justin Albert, Director, National Trust Cymru stressed the Trust's importance in safeguarding the woodlands of Wales.

“For over 125 years, the National Trust has provided places for people to connect with nature, beauty and fresh air," he said.

"This has been as relevant over the last two years as it has in any time in our history.  Nature has been hugely comforting to many during the pandemic, bringing both pleasure and reassurance as all other aspects of our lives changed.

"We hope that the woodland will be used for remembrance and reflection, but also to provide a future green space for everyone to connect to the natural world."