VANDALS have caused criminal damage to a £180,000 community nature project at Aberfields in Nant-y-moel just weeks before it was due to be officially opened.
The waterlogged site was largely unusable before work began in January 2026 to introduce biodiverse improvements and make it more accessible for residents of the Ogmore Valley to enjoy.
It has been transformed into a natural community resource featuring a mix of wetland and woodland environments, banks of natural wildflowers, seated viewing platforms and a network of new pathways.
It forms part of a wider initiative undertaken by Bridgend County Borough Council and the Bridgend Local Nature Partnership to provide more natural spaces throughout the area using funding from Welsh Government’s Local Places For Nature programme.
Deputy Leader Jane Gebbie said: “I am absolutely dismayed that this fantastic community nature project has been targeted by vandals just weeks before it was due to officially open.
“This wasn’t simply damage to trees, paths and public property—it was damage to something that has been created for the benefit of the whole community.
“The investment at Aberfields has transformed an inaccessible, waterlogged site into a beautiful natural space where people can walk, enjoy nature, improve their wellbeing and spend time outdoors.
“It represents a significant investment of public money, and every act of vandalism means money that should be spent improving services has to be diverted to putting things right.
“What makes this incident even more upsetting is that one of the trees damaged was planted in memory of the late Stan Norris MBE, whose decades of dedication to young people through Wyndham Boys and Girls Club earned him enormous respect across the Ogmore Valley. Damaging a living tribute to someone who gave so much to this community shows a complete lack of respect.
“This incident is particularly disappointing as it comes during Anti-Social Behaviour Awareness Week. Anti-social behaviour is never ‘low-level’—it affects people’s sense of pride, safety and belonging, discourages families from using community spaces and undermines the hard work of those who are investing in our local environment.
“The individuals responsible have been identified and the matter is being dealt with in conjunction with South Wales Police. I hope this sends a clear message that vandalism will not be tolerated.
“Those responsible must understand that these actions have consequences, not only for themselves but for the wider community that ultimately pays the price.
“I want to thank everyone involved in creating this wonderful space and reassure residents that we remain committed to restoring the damage and ensuring Aberfields becomes the valuable community asset it was always intended to be.
“If anyone witnesses anti-social behaviour or criminal damage, please report it to South Wales Police by calling 101, using the online reporting service or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
“By working together, we can help protect the places that matter to us all.”
