Bryntysilio Outdoor Education Centre has welcomed Denbighshire County Council's decision to grant planning permission for a £7 million refurbishment of its historic 12-acre site, paving the way for thousands more people to benefit from outdoor learning, wellbeing and community programmes.
The centre is an established provider of outdoor learning that currently welcomes more than 2,000 people each year, including pupils from over 50 schools and adults through a number of grant-funded projects.
The redevelopment is expected to double the number of people able to benefit from Bryntysilio's programmes, while significantly increasing the charity's capacity, impact and long-term sustainability.
Dr Chris Eastabrook, Chief Officer, said: "We are absolutely delighted and extremely grateful to Denbighshire County Council Planning Team for their support.
"For nearly 60 years, Bryntysilio has helped all people build confidence, resilience and lifelong memories through outdoor learning. This decision allows us to safeguard our historic buildings for future generations while opening our doors to many more people.
"The redevelopment will enable us to welcome twice as many participants, expand our work with schools, and develop new community and adult development programmes. It represents the beginning of an exciting new chapter for both Bryntysilio and the wider community."
Initial modelling suggests the project could generate more than £1.1 million in additional annual economic activity once operational, supporting around 10 new jobs and creating further opportunities for local businesses that benefit from increased visitor numbers.
The charity also estimates that the additional outdoor learning and wellbeing opportunities enabled by the project could generate up to £1.8 million annually in social value, based on the HM Treasury Green Book approach to measuring wellbeing outcomes.
Outdoor education provides experiences that cannot easily be replicated elsewhere. Through challenge, teamwork and time spent in nature, all people develop confidence, resilience, independence and social skills.
Evidence summarised by the Institute for Outdoor Learning has linked outdoor learning with improved wellbeing, engagement, behaviour, attainment and social development.
Alongside its work with schools, Bryntysilio delivers funded programmes for adults that support wellbeing, employability, leadership development and community connection. These programmes help individuals build new skills and confidence while helping organisations develop stronger, more effective teams.
The centre also believes outdoor education plays an important role in fostering environmental stewardship by helping people build a meaningful connection with the natural world and Welsh culture and history
With planning permission now secured, Bryntysilio is launching the next phase of the project and seeking support from grant-makers, charitable trusts, businesses and individual donors to help deliver the £7 million redevelopment.
Dr Eastabrook added: “Planning approval is a major milestone, but it is also the starting point for what comes next. We are now seeking partners who share our belief that access to the outdoors can change lives.
"Whether through major grants, corporate partnerships or individual giving, we would love to hear from those who want to help create opportunities for future generations.”
Llangollen county councillor Karen Edwards said: “I have always recognised Bryntysilio Outdoor Education Centre as an important asset to our area, giving people the chance to experience and benefit from outdoor education and activities.
"I know it has been a lengthy process to reach this stage, and I appreciate the work and commitment involved in securing a sustainable future for the centre, enabling it to continue its important work for future generations.
"I am genuinely pleased to see this progress and look forward to seeing the centre move forward.”
Becky Gittins, MP for Clwyd East, said: “At a time when many young people are facing pressures on their wellbeing and confidence, access to opportunities like those provided by Bryntysilio has never been more important.
"For almost 60 years, the centre has helped people learn, grow and thrive through outdoor education.
"This redevelopment will secure that legacy for future generations while opening the door for thousands more people to benefit.
"It's a fantastic opportunity for our area, and I’m delighted to support it.”
Llyr Gruffydd, MS for Clwyd, said: “As the Member of the Senedd for Clwyd, I welcome the proposed redevelopment of Bryntysilio Outdoor Education Centre as a significant investment in an invaluable community asset. For almost 60 years, the centre has provided young people with opportunities to build confidence, resilience and essential life skills through outdoor learning.
"Expanding and enhancing these facilities is not only great news for the local area, but also for future generations across the region. By increasing access to high-quality outdoor education experiences, this redevelopment will help more young people benefit from opportunities that can have a lasting positive impact on their personal development, wellbeing and mental health.”
Darren Millar, MS for Clwyd, for Clwyd, said: "I fully support this development. The investment in the facilities at Bryntysilio is significant and will safeguard the centre's future for decades to come.
"Every young person should have the opportunity to benefit from the opportunities that outdoor education centres provide, so the increased capacity that this investment will bring is also most welcome."
Tom Montgomery, MS for Clwyd, said: "Bryntysilio has helped generations of young people build confidence, develop new skills and experience the benefits of learning outdoors. The proposed £7 million redevelopment is an exciting opportunity to secure the centre's future, increase access to its programmes and deliver significant educational, social and economic benefits. I am pleased to support this vision and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have for years to come."
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