‘Nature’s back in town’ Project

An award has been made for the following:INTRODUCTION:The Countryside & Wildlife Team (C&W Team) of Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council are delivering a Green Infrastructure Strategy and engagement Project. The project intends to gauge public opinion on delivering Nature friendly designs within Port Talbot, and what the community want to see in their local green and urban spaces. This will lead to developing a Green Infrastructure strategy for the council, working to deliver cohesive nature friendly schemes across Neath Port Talbot.BACKGROUND INFORMATION:Thanks to funding from the National Heritage Lottery fund, as part of this urban nature revolution, the project intends to engage with both the local community, and internal council departments to raise awareness, answer surveys and gain an understanding of key issues, needs and wants from the people who live and work in the area.The aim of the contract/feasibility study is to carry out engagement sessions both online, and in public and report back on the findings. Providing valuable information to shape the Green Infrastructure strategy.Total value of the grant funded project is £18,000.PROJECT TIMESCALE:To complete the works, as detailed below, within an anticipated timescale of 31December 2026.ONTRACT REQUIREMENTS:The consultant will undertake the following activities to support the Green Infrastructure (GI) strategy development:Desk-Based Review: - Conduct a comprehensive analysis of current internal engagement practices and existing strategies related to Green Infrastructure. Internal Workshops: - Facilitate workshops with Local Authority staff to establish the foundational framework for the Green Infrastructure Strategy.External Stakeholder Workshops: - Organize and lead workshops involving industry professionals, Public Service Boards (PSB), and other external partners to collaboratively shape the foundation of the Green Infrastructure Strategy.Community Engagement: - Conduct shop-based engagement activities with the public to gather insights on greenspace usage and needs. - Attend local events and participate in door-to-door engagement efforts to connect with local businesses and stakeholders.Report Preparation: - Produce a comprehensive report summarizing findings, outlining key issues and concerns, and providing actionable recommendations.Knowledge and experience in Green Infrastructure and the delivery of a similar project/s is essential with particular focus on effective community engagement. The project will take place across the geographic area of Port Talbot. It is expected that the contractor will attend local events, set up stalls in busy areas and run sessions at local community hubs such as Taibach Community Centre, The Princess Royal Theatre, Aberavon Sea front and some of the main public parks. These locations will be agreed in the early contract meetings and subject to event