Exciting progress is being made at the Trethomas Life Centre (TLC), where ongoing improvements to the grounds and the construction of a new building are helping to realise The Parish Trust’s vision for a welcoming, accessible and vibrant community space.
Thanks to funding from Pride in Place, Caerphilly County Borough Council (CCBC) and the WCVA Landfill Disposals Tax Communities Scheme, significant work has been taking place to improve the outdoor areas surrounding the centre, creating new opportunities for community activities, gardening, recreation and connecting with nature.
The latest milestone sees preparations underway for the pouring of the concrete foundations for an additional building within the grounds. The new facility will provide valuable extra space for activities and services at TLC, supporting the centre’s continued development as a community hub for Trethomas and the surrounding areas.
Subject to the remaining construction work progressing as planned, The Parish Trust hopes to see the new building completed by the end of 2026.
Creating a Greener Space for the Community
Alongside the construction work, plans are progressing to transform TLC’s outdoor areas into attractive and welcoming gardens that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
The Parish Trust is working in partnership with Keep Wales Tidy, whose support and expertise are helping to shape plans for a greener, more environmentally friendly space. The aim is to create opportunities for growing plants and produce, supporting wildlife and biodiversity, and encouraging local people to spend time outdoors.
Once established, the gardens will provide opportunities for community involvement, practical learning and volunteering, while also offering an enjoyable outdoor environment for families, children and visitors to the centre.
The improvements are also helping to make TLC more accessible for those travelling by bicycle or visiting with young children. New dedicated bicycle and buggy storage facilities have been installed, together with a bicycle repair station to encourage active travel and make journeys to the centre more convenient.
Volunteers Making a Real Difference
Community involvement has already played an important part in the transformation.
Recently, a group of volunteers gave their time to help with the outdoor improvements, undertaking physically demanding work and helping to prepare the grounds for the next stages of development.
Their contribution has been greatly appreciated by The Parish Trust, demonstrating the difference that local people can make when they come together to support a shared community space.
As the gardens develop, the charity hopes to build on this enthusiasm by establishing a group of Friends of TLC who can help care for the outdoor areas over the longer term.
The opportunity will be open to anyone interested in gardening, growing, wildlife or simply helping to maintain an attractive and welcoming environment for the community. No specialist experience will be necessary, and there will be opportunities to contribute regularly or through occasional volunteering days.
Looking Ahead
The ongoing improvements represent another important stage in the development of the Trethomas Life Centre, which opened its doors in August 2025 following the refurbishment of the former community building.
While the centre is already providing a home for a growing range of community activities, the development of its outdoor spaces and additional facilities will help extend what can be offered to local residents.
The Parish Trust is grateful for the financial support received through Pride in Place, CCBC and WCVA, as well as the practical support of Keep Wales Tidy and the commitment of the volunteers who have contributed to the project.
With the foundations for the new building now being prepared and plans for the gardens moving forward, the charity looks forward to sharing further updates as the transformation continues.
Become a Friend of TLC
The Parish Trust is inviting local residents to register their interest in becoming a Friend of TLC and helping to care for the gardens and outdoor spaces once they are established.
Whether you have gardening experience, an interest in nature or simply a willingness to lend a hand, your involvement could help make TLC a greener and more welcoming place for everyone.
