The Mynydd Mawr Woodland park has been created by Carmarthenshire County Council, which has owned the site since 1996.  The park included over 100 hectares( 250 acres) of former colliery land. The two pits that were once stood here were closed during the 1960’s and the whole site was later opencasted. Natural and managed regeneration of the landscape since the 1970’s has seen a remarkable transformation of the area.

Following consultation with the public, work began on the park in December 1998.  The history of deep mining and opencasting has left a layer of mining waste over much of the site.  However willow, birch and oak are regenerating naturally over the coal waste and will eventually form a thick woodland.  The large open area in the centre of the park will be maintained and grassland because of its importance of ground nesting birds, such as shylarks.

Carmarthenshire County Council are committed to encouraging use of the countryside and maintaining country parks which are accessible to all.  Many organisations have given their support to opening up Mynydd Mawr Woodland Park to the public and creating or enhancing diverse wildlife habitats. Volunteers and people gaining work experience have worked alongside professional contractors to develop footpaths, picnic area, wildlife habitats and information points within the park.

Today the park has a rich assortment of plant and animal life and important habitats which are being managed for the enjoyment of future generations.  A network of footpaths gives easy access for walkers to flower-rich meadows and quiet woodlands  and a designated trail is available for use by horse riders and mountain bikers. Information panels throughout the park will help you find out about the history of the land and the people that once lived and worked here.    

For further information on Mynydd Mawr Woodland Park, please contact 01269 843911.