The National Trust unveils a decade-long strategy to enhance nature and access to green spaces in the North East
Newcastle: The National Trust is making some big moves in the North East. They’ve got two sites in mind for their ambitious plans over the next decade. The goal? To restore nature and make green spaces more accessible to everyone.
This year marks 130 years of the National Trust, and they’re rolling out a new 10-year strategy. They want to create nature-rich landscapes that are one-and-a-half times the size of Greater London. They’ve consulted with 70,000 people to shape this plan, which includes boosting green spaces in 100 towns and cities and offering apprenticeships for 130 young folks.
Wallington in Northumberland is a standout spot. It’s been labeled a “nature super site,” meaning it’s got great potential for wildlife recovery. People will even get a chance to “adopt” plots of land there. The Trust has noticed a drop in wildlife over the last century, and extreme weather hasn’t helped either.
But there’s hope! They’re launching a nature restoration program, bringing beavers back for the first time in 400 years, and creating an “ark” for endangered crayfish. Recently, they quarantined some freshwater crayfish after a troubling find in the River Wansbeck.
They’re also looking to protect 50 kilometers of waterways, plant new hedgerows and woodlands, restore wetlands, and promote nature-friendly farming. The tenant farmers at Wallington are already making strides to create space for nature.
So far, they’ve planted over 180,000 trees, with plans for another 136,000 this winter. The big goal? One million trees by 2030!
Closer to Newcastle, the Tyne Derwent Way is another key site. It aims to tackle unequal access to nature and history, partnering with Mind to address mental health issues. This nine-mile trail connects Gateshead Quays and Gibside and opened in April 2024, showcasing the area’s beauty and culture.
As part of this project, the National Trust is teaming up with local authorities and universities to support communities, improve habitats, and enhance access along the trail. They’ve got a bunch of events lined up for 2025, including a Forest School site that’s already a highlight.
Hilary McGrady, the National Trust’s director-general, emphasized the urgency of their mission. Nature is declining, and many people can’t enjoy the benefits of green spaces. They’re committed to restoring nature and ensuring everyone has access to it.
She noted that the Trust is in a unique position to tackle these challenges and is setting ambitious goals to make a real difference.
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