Project Description
Located south of Prestwich town centre, the Clough runs along an attractive stream valley from the A56 to Buckley Lane in the Irwell Valley. The Clough is an ancient woodland, designated as a Site of Biological importance and partially within the St Mary's Park Conservation area. It has been open for the use of the general public since 1906. Also included within the project is the open space at Gardner Mount, St Mary's Church a grade 1 listed building and the former bleach works site of Buckley Lane. The project seeks to preserve, enhance and widen public access through heritage conservation, wildlife enhancement and land reclamation in partnership with the local community.
Progress to Date
The Clough has been the focal point for community action by the Friends of Prestwich Forest Park for a number of years, with financial assistance provided by Bury Council through the Community Countryside and Red Rose Forest projects. Work has included community clean ups and removal of himalayan balsam. Assistance has also been provided by the BTCV, a national environmental charity on all the action days at the Clough and through the provision of tools. During 2001 the public was extensively consulted through a Planning for Real exercise, Friends of Forest Park meetings, a guided walk and distribution of a draft development plan. Council activity on the site has include wildflower planting by local schools, control of japanese knotweed and the resurfacing of paths.
Funding
The following organisations have funded the work: Bury Council, Greening Greater Manchester, Pilsworth Environmental Company, Awards for All, Heritage Lottery Fund, Forestry Commission and Prestwich LAP (Local Area Partnership).
Outputs
The project will contribute to the Community Strategy and Corporate Plan by Developing a Stronger Community Spirit, improving the environment and creating a better future for all generations by:
- Wildlife Enhancement Measures to include wildflower planting, removal of himalayan balsam and japanese knotweed and selective removal of sycamore and rhododendron that will involve the local community.
- Heritage Conservation and Restoration through restoration of paths within the graveyard and reinstatement of railings, production of draft conservation management plan for Churchyard.
- Improved Public access through footpath surfacing.
- A derelict Land Survey of the bleach works site.
- Engineering study of the stream to investigate flood defence and pollution issues.
- Organisation of an annual open day on the second sunday of May.
- Establishment of St. Mary's Churchyard Action Group.
- Production of leaflet for the Clough and erection of two interpretation boards.
