Briton Ferry West
Although mostly urbanised this ward has some exciting biodiversity. The Neath Estuary contains sand, mud flats and floodplains; Giants Grave is an exceptional site for invertebrates; Shelone Woods has spectacular Bluebell displays; Neath Canal has beautiful wetland vegetation; Brunel Dock Reedbed is home to wetland birds; Briton Ferry Waste Ground, Brunel Dock Grassland and The Quays Car Park bunds all have high floral diversity and are home to pollinators, as well as acting as corridors through the landscape. Lots of the grassland is managed for nature conservation, such as around the council offices at The Quays. Most of the ward is in a BLine.
This ward is particularly species rich because of its variety of habitats. Wading birds such as Oystercatcher nest in the docks with the mudflats being important for Curlew, Redshank and Shellduck. The reedbeds have breeding Cetti’s warbler. The dock grasslands have Wild liquorice. Giants Grave contains heathland, woodland and open areas and has at least 206 invertebrate species including Long-horned bee.
Actions
- The rich species diversity of this ward should be celebrated and conserved. You can encourage constituents to engage with the special sites of this ward through guided walks and promotion of the areas.
- James’ Field would be a fantastic site for a NPT Bee Friendly meadow. Speak to the biodiversity team to find out more about options.
- Volunteer help will be needed at Giant’s Grave in the next few years to conserve the rare invertebrate habitat.
