People living near the site of the proposed development where the newts breed, on the outskirts of Rhyl in north Wales, say it is often used by fly tippers to illegally dump rubbish.

We are planning to bring in special consultants to make sure that the work we want to carry out will improve the habitat for the newts

Debbie Holmes, resident association member

A residents association plans to turn the land into five hectares of woodland with open spaces, pathways and play areas for youngsters.

The newts, which grow up to five inches long, are endangered across Europe and are protected under the 1981 Countryside Act.

It is a criminal offence to kill, take, move or handle great crested newts without a licence.

Under the plans for the Plas Bruton Covert, 1,500 trees will be planted, fences and benches will be built and signs will be erected.

Residents association chair Debbie Holmes said: "We are planning to bring in special consultants to make sure that the work we want to carry out will improve the habitat for the newts.

European funding

"Already the whole estate has been involved in consultations on what should happen to the site, and the consultation will continue as the project goes ahead."

The project has been made possible by a grant from Cyd Coed - an organisation funded by the European Union and the Forestry Commission in Wales.

Cyd Coed - Woods for All - provides grants for community groups throughout Objective One areas in Wales

The aim is to use woodland to improve peoples' lives, promoting healthy recreation, education and conservation using woods.

The project also looks to develop commercial activities based on woodland, the improvement of existing woods and creation of wooded areas.