Harrogate Borough Council has given the green light on a proposal by Pinewoods Conservation Group (PCG) to transform Irongate field into a green community space.
The field, situated on Harlow Moor Road next to Harrogate Spring Water bottling plant, will see a number of enhancements over the next few months.
The plans will include the installation of a number of picnic tables, the sowing of a wildflower meadow, the creation of a marsh area with moisture loving plants plus the planting of a number of mature trees. The design will take into account accessibility so the site will be available for all members of the community.
Funding for the project has also been confirmed. Harrogate Council has awarded £3000 via their Community Chest scheme. Another £6,375 has also been awarded via a grant from the Big Lottery Fund.
A number of other organisations have already committed to be involved in the project including Horticap, RHS Harlow Carr, Harrogate Bio Diversity Action Group (HDBAG) and Harrogate Spring Water. Local employer Covance has also agreed to provide a project manager for the project. There will also be a number of opportunities for residents and other groups to get involved in aspects of the project.
Cllr Pat Jones, Harrogate Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Cultural Services, who approved the use of Irongate field for this new community facility said:
I am extremely pleased to be able to support the Pinewoods Conservation Group in this proposal. This use will certainly sit well in this open pasture and woodland. The Pinewood Conservation Group has a proven track record of delivering improvements to the Pinewoods and I am sure the development of Irongate field will result in a valuable community asset for all. I am also pleased that we could provide the Group with funding from the council’s Community Chest.
Neil Hind, Vice Chair of PCG said:
This is a really exciting project for Pinewoods and the local community. I’m especially pleased we are able to involve other groups in the project and will be able to draw on the expertise and resources. The challenge now is to get the project completed quickly, with a formal opening in summer next year.
It is expected that work will begin in the New Year and will take around 6 months to complete. Updates on the project will be provided via the group’s website www.harrogatepinewoodsgroup.org, on Facebook and on Twitter via @PinewoodsHgt.
