Residents have come together to form a new community group to protect Larches Wood.
The group aims include preserving the estate’s biodiversity, improving the accessibility to residents and school groups, and protecting the land from developers.
The group was set up by Cllr Mark Jewell, along with a number of people who live nearby. He said: “Larches Wood is the lungs of our community and is a real asset. Residents are fully onboard to improve the wood and protect it from developers.”
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The group recently elected their chairperson, Catherine McManmon, who has been supported by vice chair, Caroline Hodgson, who was a lecturer at Myerscough College, specialising in teaching agriculture and horticulture.
Catherine believes everyone will benefit from the protection and up-keep of the woods, which have been neglected, left litter-strewn with overgrown paths.
She said: “I’m really excited to be involved in this group that aims to protect a vital natural asset on the Larches Estate – but it really will need a community effort.
“I’m really pleased, but not surprised that there is such interest in the community to make sure that Larches Wood is looked after, for everyone’s benefit.”
She said they’ll also be reaching out to organisations who can provide expert advice and guidance and welcome anyone in the community who has an interest in supporting their action days.
The group has decided on its first step, which will be a survey of the wood to support the development of an action plan.
Cllr Mark Jewell added: “Forming the group is relatively straightforward, but making the difference will be more difficult.
“Nonetheless, an important first step has been taken.”
Anyone interested in getting involved with Larches Wood can contact Cllr Mark Jewell via email at maninahat1@outlook.com, or Catherine McManmon at catherine.mcmanmon@gmail.com
Future meeting dates and updates will be advertised via: ST BERNARD’S – LARCHES & SAVICK COMMUNITY HUB CIO Facebook page.
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