Primary schools close to the A40 Improvements Scheme in Llanddewi Velfrey took part in an ecology and tree planting event recently to highlight the importance of wildlife mitigation on a large-scale infrastructure project, and to be involved with the planting on the project.

Organised by Griffiths, the Principal Contractor for the scheme, pupils ranging from year 3 to year 6 from Narberth CP, Tavernspite and Ysgol Llys Hywel attended the site to support with planting a total of over 70 hazel and willow trees, which are native to the area.

 The Welsh Government Scheme, to construct and improve a new section of A40 between Redstone Cross and Llanddewi Velfrey has already achieved some of its commitments in terms of environmental mitigation, with contractors for the Scheme already planting over 100,000 trees. A total of 301,000 trees will be planted by the end of the project. These plants will provide excellent habitat for the local wildlife such as birds, bees, and protected species such as the dormouse.

Griffiths continues to work hard to promote social value and sustainability on major projects such as the A40 Llanddewi Velfrey to Redstone Cross Scheme, with a significant emphasis on promoting STEM educational activities (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) in their projects.

Carla Rendell, Social Value Manager at Griffiths said:“Planting trees and flowers is an excellent way for children to connect with nature while also learning how to protect our planet. We hope it has helped children learn about the trees around them.”

Children also benefited from an ecology session along with planting their very own sunflower seeds, which they took away with them as their own project to manage over the coming months.

Carla added: “By allowing children to be part of such a varied and interesting project, and by facilitating the opportunity to learn about important subjects such as ecology and sustainability, we hope that we can bring an added element into their studies and provide good quality, real-world learning that will complement their classroom activities”.

 The children had a fun session on the project and it’s a legacy they will remember for the rest of their lives and probably remind many people of the day they helped build the A40 Llanddewi Velfrey to Redstone Cross Scheme.