Fundraiser to bring Bluebell Woods into community’s hands launched

A community fundraiser aiming to ensure the much-loved Bluebell Woods is “preserved for future generations” has been launched.

The GoFundMe appeal is looking to raise £150,000 to bring Bluebell Woods, near Llanbradach, into the hands of residents.

It comes as the land, which was dug up by contractors last summer without planning permission, is going up for auction.

The site is currently owned by businessman Karl O’Dare, who had plans to create a five-pitch caravan site on the land – but excavation works were stopped by Caerphilly County Borough Council on August 1.

There was outrage from residents at the time, who have enjoyed the land for generations.

Following condemnation and protests from residents and local politicians alike, the landowner backed out of plans in late August following talks with the council – with the local authority confirming work would be carried out to restore the fields.

Now, the freehold of the land, which covers around 31 acres, has been put up for auction – with a guide price of £145,000 – a reduction on the £170,000 guide price when it was first listed earlier this month.

It is being auctioned by the Newport-based Paul Fosh Auctions between January 31 and February 2.

However, the council has confirmed that the obligation to restore the woods would be passed onto whoever buys the land, as the obligation runs with the land itself – not the landowner.

Llanbradach councillor Colin Mann, of Plaid Cymru, said: “People in the village are worried about what will happen in the future to our wonderful Bluebell Woods and fields.”

He said the crowdfunder was launched “to ensure the land is preserved for future generations” and continued: “The money needed is a huge amount but if we can reach the target we can buy the land for the community.

“Any donations, however small, to help us reach our goal would be really appreciated.”

Cllr Mann added: “The village remains concerned about promises to restore the land. It should have been completed by now but we are still waiting.”

At the time of publication, the fundraiser had raised more than £3,300 – including a £1,000 donation from Llanbradach and Pwllypant Community Council.

A public meeting is being held at Llanbradach Community Centre at 7pm on Wednesday, January 25 to discuss a plan for the community to buy the land.