At Derwen May Homes, landscape is never treated as decoration. It is a working part of the place we create, shaping how people live, move and feel while supporting biodiversity and long term environmental health. Our Landscape Strategy for Bolgoed Farm, Pontarddulais, prepared by Tir Collective, reflects this belief and sets out a clear, responsible approach that puts people and the environment first.
This strategy has guided the development from the earliest stages. It responds to the site’s context, its existing features and its role at the edge of the settlement. It also reflects our wider ethos that good landscape design supports wellbeing, resilience and a strong sense of place.
Working with What Is Already There
The starting point for the landscape strategy is retention and respect. Existing trees, hedgerows and field boundaries are kept wherever possible and reinforced where needed. These features provide structure, shelter and ecological continuity. They also help the development sit comfortably within its semi rural setting.
Root protection areas are clearly defined and respected. Hedgerows are strengthened using native planting to fill gaps and extend green corridors across the site. This approach supports wildlife movement while also providing visual softness and seasonal change for residents. By working with existing landscape assets rather than replacing them, the development retains a connection to the land’s history and character.
Planting for Biodiversity and Everyday Life
New planting across the site has been carefully selected for both ecological value and lived experience. Native and ornamental trees are used where appropriate, with rear garden trees chosen for compact growth to avoid excessive canopy spread. Mixed shrub and herbaceous planting provides colour, texture and interest throughout the year.
Flowering species are included to encourage pollinating insects. Species rich grassland is introduced in key areas to support reptiles and increase habitat diversity. Amenity grass is balanced with more natural planting to create spaces that are practical, attractive and alive with movement.
This planting strategy supports biodiversity while also creating places where people want to spend time. Gardens, streets and shared spaces benefit from greenery that feels considered and generous.
Green Infrastructure and Sustainable Drainage
The landscape strategy plays a central role in managing water on site. Rain gardens, swales and a central pond form part of an integrated sustainable drainage system. These features slow and filter surface water, reduce pressure on existing infrastructure and improve water quality.
The pond is designed as both a functional drainage feature and a natural habitat. Marginal aquatic planting supports insects, amphibians and birds. The surrounding landscape allows residents to experience water as part of the environment in a calm and safe way.
This approach demonstrates how landscape, drainage and ecology can work together. It supports climate resilience while adding amenity value for the community.
Designing for People and Movement
Paths and open spaces are designed to encourage walking, play and informal interaction. Green corridors run through the development, linking homes to open space and creating a clear structure for movement. These routes are overlooked and well integrated, supporting safety and everyday use.
Informal play areas, butterfly banks and reptile hibernacula are woven into the landscape rather than set apart. This makes nature part of daily life for residents of all ages. Hedgehog gaps in fences allow wildlife to move freely between gardens and green spaces.
The result is a landscape that supports health, connection and enjoyment as well as ecology.
Long Term Stewardship
A responsible landscape strategy considers how spaces will mature over time. Planting has been selected for longevity and ease of management. Materials and detailing support durability and reduce future maintenance burden.
This long term thinking ensures that the landscape continues to perform and provide benefit well beyond the completion of the development. It also supports stewardship by future residents and management bodies.
“Landscape sets the tone for how a place feels and how it functions over time. At Pontarddulais, we have designed the landscape to support nature, manage water and create spaces that people can enjoy every day. It is about responsibility and care for the land and for the community that will grow here.” Huw Llewellyn, Managing Director, Derwen May Homes
Putting Environment and People First
The Landscape Strategy at Bolgoed Farm shows how careful planning and design can deliver multiple benefits. It strengthens biodiversity, supports sustainable drainage, enhances wellbeing and helps the development sit naturally within its surroundings.
At Derwen May Homes, this approach reflects our belief that landscape is central to good placemaking. By putting environment and people first, we create places that feel settled, resilient and valued.
This is how we approach landscape. Thoughtfully, responsibly and with a clear commitment to long term quality.
Contact us to learn more.