Gnoll Country Park and Neath Port Talbot Council’s Countryside & Wildlife Team have won the Best of the Best Biodiversity Award at this year’s Green Flag Awards. The national recognition celebrates the innovative and environmentally focused Gnollywood sign and project.
This striking installation is far more than a visual landmark, it’s a haven for wildlife. The giant letters double as a bug hotel, offering safe nesting and hibernation spaces for pollinators and other insects. Close inspection reveals small holes filled with mud and leaves - clear evidence that solitary bees have already used the structure to safely store larvae over winter, helping to secure future pollinator populations.
Councillor Cen Phillips, Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing, said: “We are delighted to receive this award, which reflects our strong commitment to biodiversity and creating spaces where nature can flourish. The Gnollywood sign and wildflower meadows are just the beginning of our journey to make Gnoll Country Park a sanctuary for wildlife and a place where people can enjoy nature throughout the year. This award recognises the fantastic work of our Countryside & Wildlife Team and the staff at Gnoll Country Park.”
The Gnollywood sign complements the transformed meadow behind it. What was once an underused golf course has become a thriving wildflower meadow. In its very first summer, over 30 species were recorded, including the stunning Southern Marsh Orchid. The diversity was so rich that the area qualified as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation.
As part of sustainable meadow management, the area has recently received its seasonal winter cut. The hay was harvested by a local farmer to support livestock through the colder months. Removing the hay is essential for meadow health to keep soil nutrients low, allowing wildflowers to flourish and preventing aggressive plants from taking over. Come spring, the meadows will bloom again, with mown paths inviting visitors to wander among the flowers and experience nature up close.
Councillor Cen Phillips, added: “I would like to thank the Welsh Government’s Local Places for Nature fund for supporting the Gnollywood sign project, alongside the continued dedication of council staff who are working together to create high-quality green spaces where wildlife and people can thrive.”
Visitors can discover the wildflower meadow and Gnollywood sign near the main entrance to Gnoll Country Park.
