Wyre woodland receives community and council backing

Highly valued by the local community for it's environment and wildlife, The Towers, located just off Holmfield Avenue, is a woodland oasis in an urban setting with a history dating back to the early 1900s.

Local volunteers recently conducted a survey to establish what improvements people would like to see in the area and presented their findings to Wyre Council, which agreed to implement a number of recommendations.

Councillor Lynne Bowen, Cabinet member with responsibility for parks and open spaces at Wyre Council, added: "I'm delighted that as a result of the volunteers' survey, the council was able to meet with residents and agree some very positive actions for the long term future of The Towers.

"This is a great example of partnership working between local people and the council. This type of approach is key to establishing sustainable projects that enhance and improve our communities."

Recommendations include improvements to the pathways and seating, emptying bins more frequently and other remedial works aimed at alleviating anti social behaviour and enhancing the overall appearance of the area.

Wyre's rangers are also working with local schools and youth groups at the site, to provide a better understanding and appreciation of local environmental conservation.

In addition, the council has secured funding from the Forestry Commission's Woodland Improvement Grants to carry out environmental management work at both The Towers and Pheasant Wood in Thornton. This includes felling of unsuitable trees, replanting native species, and improving boundary treatments, access and pond management.

The residents' group will continue to steer the development of The Towers and intends to create a number of community projects for people to get involved in.

Ken Harcombe, spokesperson for the residents' group, said: "It was a really interesting exercise. We are very fortunate to have The Towers on our doorstep and hope that small improvements will help keep it as an oasis of calm in an otherwise hectic world."

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Pictured: local residents, including Ken Harcombe (standing, right) at The Towers.