Caerphilly County Borough Council has approved a Community Asset Transfer (CAT) of the underutilised land at Dan Y Graig, Risca.
Against the backdrop of the difficult financial challenges that the local authority has faced in recent years, it is hoped that the CAT process can be effectively implemented further across the county borough to the benefit of our local communities while also reducing the cost burden on the local authority.
It has been agreed that the land will be transferred to The Bee Well Cooperative, a community-led initiative that brings together six independent organisations and a local landowner acting as an ambassador for the site to create a sustainable, multi-purpose well-being space in South Wales, subject to planning and a sustainable business case.
The cooperative will establish a long-term community hub offering accessible services and sustainable development, focusing on mental health, environmental conservation, outdoor education qualification, and social inclusion all of which align with the council’s core priorities.
These services will benefit Risca and surrounding areas by addressing gaps in community well-being, mental health, education, veteran and vulnerable support, and by promoting environmental restoration and sustainable economic growth.
Cllr Nigel George, Cabinet Member for Corporate Services and Highways commented:
“This is a fantastic opportunity to take underutilised land and turn it into a thriving resource for our community.
“The CAT process is an incredibly useful tool that we have begun to utilise, and we hope that in the coming years we are able to support more community led initiatives, while also being able to reduce the financial burden the council currently has.
“I wish the Bee Well Cooperative all the best with this exciting new initiative.”
John Mustoe, the chairman of the charity commented:
“The Bee Well Cooperative is a group of passionate organisations who’ve come together with a shared aim to transfer Dan Y Graig into a place that truly serves the community.
“Our vision for Dan Y Graig is a multipurpose, fully accessible, well-being space, where people of all ages, backgrounds, can connect with nature, learn new skills, improve their health, and feel part of something meaningful.
From therapeutic sessions and retreats, educational courses, beekeeping experiences, and ancient crafts, the work we will do at Dan Y Graig will directly improve lives across Caerphilly.”
