Oswaldtwistle: Nature reserves to benefit from windfall funding

Two proposals are being developed so that more people can enjoy important natural greenspaces in Hyndburn, at Foxhill Bank Local Nature Reserve in Oswaldtwistle and the Rothwell Heights part of Bullough Park in Accrington.

Foxhill Bank Local Nature Reserve in Oswaldtwistle has been successfully managed by the Lancashire Wildlife Trust since the original reclamation works some 25 years ago. It’s great news that this specialist organisation is keen to continue these very positive arrangements for managing the mosaic of habitats and welcoming more people to get involved in the reserve.

Tim Mitcham, Lancashire Wildlife Trust Conservation Manager, said; “Lancashire Wildlife Trust has put a lot of time and effort into the management of Foxhill Bank and we regard it highly as one of our top Local Nature Reserves. It is a beautiful green space right next to the busy centre of Oswaldtwistle. We get a lot of positive feedback from local people and regular visitors to the reserve, who really appreciate the work that has been done and the standard to which the reserve has been maintained. Knowing how important it is to local people makes all of this work worthwhile and the Trust is keen to be able to continue with the work under the terms of a new lease. Furthermore the grant is really welcome to help the Trust carry out improvements and raise further funds for the reserve. The partnership between the Trust and Hyndburn Council has been well established and successful and we look forward to working together for many years to come.”

The Council in partnership with Sure Start Hyndburn and The Prospects Foundation Windfall Fund are developing a Forest School area at Rothwell Heights part of Bullough Park in Accrington.

This project will bring this opportunity for outdoor learning and enjoyment close to neighbourhoods in the Ferngore and Scaitcliffe areas of Accrington. Children, young people, families and the wider community will be able to enjoy activities in their own local woodland.

Due to open this autumn, Sure Start have an enthusiastic team trained in Forest School ready to deliver sessions to families and schools. The team supports children to learn everything from building a habitat for mini beasts, to how to use tools and cook outdoors. Sarah Crackles, Forest School Leader, said it was all about capturing the natural curiosity of children and adults and increasing confidence and extending learning.

She commented: “Children think its brilliant, one child said to us ‘I loved all of Forest School – I felt like Bear Grylls!’ They’ve tried things they’ve never experienced before and learnt new skills by doing things in a hands on way. They work together to achieve really spectacular things, they just thrive in the woodland environment.”

Sarah said it was a great family activity adding: “It’s not just for the children, parents love it too, and they’ve made comments like ‘we’ve had so much fun together – it’s been ages since I’ve built a den I feel like a kid again!’ Sessions certainly leave families wanting more and Sure Start Hyndburn are planning to deliver regular sessions to meet the demand.

Cllr Ken Moss, Cabinet Member for Education, Leisure and Arts said: “I’m delighted that the Council is supporting these excellent community based activities which will bring so many benefits for local people. I know that when people have more contact with nature and enjoy beautiful outdoor spaces like these, it can literally change lives. I am especially pleased to bring this opportunity to a new area of the district and to encourage many young people to be involved.”