A New Wood For Elmstead
All residents should by now have received a flyer from the Woodland Trust
advising them of the potential purchase of 250 acres of farmland in Elmstead
which they intend to turn into a natural wood for the benefit of all. This
is a marvellous opportunity for the village, both to enhance the area,
provide recreational space and protect the area from further development.
Residents were given the opportunity to hear more about the plan at a recent
public meeting held at the Community Centre and the Parish Council are
having regular meetings with the Trusts representatives to understand how
this is developing and how we can support. The Trust needs to raise
£2million pounds for the purchase of the land and its upkeep, so far they
have raised over £1.1 million and are seeking personal pledges of funds from
residents totalling £50,000. They have already received pledges totalling
£27,000 so are well on their way to reaching this target. The money raised
through public donations is matched / increased from corporate and public
funds so this contribution allows them to raise significantly more
elsewhere. Anyone who requires more information on this exciting project,
requires details on how to pledge or has any questions should contact the
trusts local supporter John Minns on:
Email: johnminns@AOL.com
Tel: 01206 392012
Or the Woodland Trust via their Regional Development Officer, John Brown on:
Email: johnbrown@woodlandtrust.org.uk
Tel: 08452 935 732
Lets hope this exciting project is realised to provide a lasting area of
natural beauty for all of us to enjoy for years to come.
Elmstead Parish Council
