By Katherine Turner
Western Flatts Cliff Park in Wortley is set to have a shiny new woodland area. Between now and February phase 1 will begin to create a brand new woodland at the much-loved park.
Volunteers from the Friends of Western Flatts Cliff Park group have been working closely with Leeds City Council’s Woodland Creation team. Plans are in place to introduce a variety of native British trees, ranging from Oak, Willow, Holly, Scots Pine, Alder and Birch.
The aim of the project is to create vital habitats for wildlife, including owls, birds and bats. They hope to introduce new woodland walks for people to enjoy and rectify the issue of boggy ground once the new trees become established.
Richard Stringer, from the Friends group, told WLD: “As a committee, we are incredibly proud to have helped bring this plan forward. This is a brilliant development for the park. It will deliver a huge boost for local wildlife and give residents a great new woodland to enjoy. We are excited to see the community get involved as it takes root.”
A second phase is currently being worked on, which will focus on adding even more trees across the park, including replacing cherry trees that have been lost during storms and are nearing the end of their natural life.
This initiative will come as welcome news to locals who have voiced concerns after it was announced that over 2,000 trees are to be axed across Leeds. Most are due to disease, with ash dieback being a major factor in the need to fell so many trees.
Wortley resident Andy Denison felt that trees are very important in “creating oxygen, providing cover and a home and food for local wildlife.”
Andy echoed concerns that others have shared on social media. He said: “I was initially concerned that Ash trees were being felled, as I had seen woodpeckers and their offspring and a wide range of birdlife in the park.
“The tree planting will be good for our local community, the down side is the preparation and felling of developed trees. The growth rate of the new saplings will be slow in relation to the 100 plus years of tree growth already at the park.”
Local resident Mel Sharp added: “Trees are really important in my local area, we’ve a beautiful park at the end of my street, the trees line the footpath in the park. In the spring it’s a beautiful sight with all the beautiful blossom. It’s equally beautiful on the autumn with the autumn leaves.
“I think it’s right to replace any felled trees in our local park. It’s not going to be the same for some time as they take years to establish and grow. It’s just sad that something that has grown over many a years have to be felled but public safety is paramount.”
Local residents are being encouraged to help with planting, watering and maintaining the trees once they are planted. For more information please visit their Facebook page or e-mail friends@fowfcp.org
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