Newborough Sand Dunes Restoration Begins

After years of decline work has begun to help restore one of Wales’ finest sand dune systems. 

Over the last 60 years Newborough Warren on Anglesey has lost a staggering 94% of open, mobile sand dunes as they became over-grown with grass and trees.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has already removed dead or stunted trees from two small areas behind the dunes.

Now it will begin the second phase of the project by removing vegetation from some dunes and cutting notches in the frontal dunes so that the sand can move about naturally in the wind.

Graham Williams, Senior Reserve Manager at Natural Resources Wales said:

“The site needs help because the stabilized dunes are not providing the right habitat for the species that live there.

“Naturally mobile sand dunes aren’t just good for nature, they provide a more dynamic coastal defense system which can adapt to storms and sea level change. They are also fantastic natural landscapes and great places for everyone to enjoy.

“Although the diggers used for the work may look heavy-handed, they will clear away the thick thatch of choking grasses and dark soil, to reveal bare sandy areas.”

The project is funded by the SITA Trust as part of a series of dune rejuvenation projects across Wales which has also included work at Kenfig National Nature Reserve (NNR) and Merthyr Mawr Warren NNR near Bridgend.

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