• A joint effort by Grwp Resilience and Pembrokeshire County Council seeks to transform unused landfill land into a hub for renewable energy, community amenities, and nature

IN THE HEART of Milford Haven lies an 8-acre parcel of land that has remained untouched since its use as a landfill over 17 years ago. Devoid of houses due to its contaminated past and uncertain future, this once-neglected area stands amidst a town known for its rich history in military, trade, fishing, and oil and gas industries. Despite its energy connections, Milford Haven, with a population of 14,000, grapples with pockets of deprivation and urban challenges. However, a promising community-led initiative is set to transform this dormant space into a vibrant hub that caters to local needs while fostering environmental enrichment.

Grwp Resilience, a proactive organization dedicated to promoting community-based initiatives, has been at the forefront of establishing and supporting land for community growth since 2020. Among its passionate activists is Caroline Jones, a determined Milford mother who has tirelessly advocated for accessible land within the town for communal use, focused on nature and healing.

Working in conjunction with partner organizations and advocates like Caroline Jones, Grwp Resilience is also an integral part of the West Wales Climate Coalition (WWCC), advocating for sustainable planning that actively involves the county’s residents. Leading this transformative effort is Steve Keating, Pembs head of sustainability and energy, who shares insights into the ambitious project:

“Pembrokeshire CC and the community are exploring the possibility of co-designing a progressive solar energy and community amenity project on the former landfill site, adjacent to Milford Haven’s Meads Leisure Centre. Guided by Grwp Resilience, the community aims to utilize a portion of the land for community growth while preserving other areas for amenity use. Concurrently, the Council aspires to decarbonize the adjoining leisure and youth center through solar power. We invite everyone to join us in co-designing a comprehensive scheme that not only promotes renewable energy generation but also fosters community growth, biodiversity enhancement, and safeguarding amenity space for local residents. We are open to any other innovative ideas you may have!”

To kickstart this transformative process, a family fun and ideas festival will take place on the site on August 14th, inviting all members connected to Milford Haven to participate. The event will feature games, activities, and brainstorming sessions, as attendees gather to discuss ideas for the land’s potential. The festival will host a variety of engaging stalls, including animals, dog displays, acrobatics, circus skills, tombola, children’s singing, and games, with a special emphasis on natural healing. Moreover, Wally, head of the leisure centers, will lead an intriguing historic tour of the site. Council representatives and leaders from various departments will also be available for discussions, alongside talks from experts in social housing, local renewables, and landscape design.

The initiative represents an early instance of the Council’s inclusive democracy, as children will be given the opportunity to occupy the Council Chamber for a climate action debate. Though only one councillor was present to field all questions during this event, Cris Tomos, who championed Pembrokeshire’s achievements on the world stage in recycling and other areas, lost his seat in the last election.

With the support of Grwp Resilience, Pembrokeshire County Council, and enthusiastic community members, the rejuvenation of this former landfill site marks a promising step towards creating a sustainable, thriving future for Milford Haven. For more information about the project and how to get involved, visit the Meads Dreams Facebook group, or access details on www.grwp.org. You can also reach out to the organizers directly via email at [email protected] or by calling 07791 809 810.