VOLUNTEERS are doing their bit to maintain one of Launceston’s beloved green spaces.

In August 2023, residents were excited to see the opening of Pennygillam Community Woodland, coming after three years of hard work, transforming an unused space on the industrial estate into beautifully green woodland.

The aim of the project was, alongside putting forgotten spaces to good use, to increase local access to nature. Now, three years on, the space has gone through some ups and downs, however, a team of dedicated volunteers are doing their bit to bring the space up to its full potential.

Rebecca Brewer is one of those volunteers that meets at the site once a month.

Speaking to the Post, she said: “The volunteers are people who live in Launceston and excited about opening up green spaces for everyone to enjoy. We didn’t really know each other before showing an interest, but it’s become a lovely group of people to meet up with.

“Launceston has one of the lowest amounts of green space for people to access in the county. We can see green spaces from all sides of the town, but it’s not possible to access it, as it’s private land. So our lovely parks are very valuable spots but having a community woodland space allows us all even more freedom to enjoy a different sort of walk in a wooded area.”

In 2024, residents were disappointed to find that the space had been used as a location for fly-tipping, however, two years on, the site is looking better than ever.

“What’s exciting is that nobody has a big master plan,” said Rebecca. “The minimum is that we keep the woodland itself healthy and accessible. I was there wheelbarrowing woodchip in the Autumn to stop people sliding around in mud!

“One aim we are working on is making the paths accessible for more people by finding ways to create more level pathways. On our volunteer days a few of us stay focused on paths, trees which need some attention. But us volunteers are listening to each other.

“One of us is feeling pretty revved up about a community garden, so a few of us are helping build it so it happens. That will help those in Launceston who may not want the commitment of an allotment and don’t have a garden. There’s an open area at the entrance which gets lots of light and is ideal for a veg plot. Another of us can see the benefits of an area for children to safely play so we’re all aware and ready to support that.

“Essentially, the aim for the woodland is shaped by local people and their dreams and what we are able to do as volunteers.”

Currently there are nearly a dozen people who get involved, attending the first Saturday of every month, and the group is welcoming anyone who wants to get involved.

Rebecca concluded: “Show up with old clothes on the first Saturday of every month and you’re an immediate woodland family member for life!”