Environmental charity gets £10k boost

A cash boost will see a charity add another community project to its good work in the region.

Groundwork South Tyneside and Newcastle (STAN) - which works to transform spaces and improve lives through its community initiatives, environmental programmes and educational workshops - has received £9,393 from the Local Environmental Action Fund (LEAF) to improve Monkton Community Woodland at Hebburn.

The 12 month project aims to engage with over 500 individuals to increase the levels of biodiversity at the Woodland and forms part of a five year plan of significant landscape scale improvements.

Currently managed by Groundwork STAN and owned by the Land Trust, plans for the Woodland include the planting of native wildflower plugs, opening up of the woodland canopy to increase ground flora, extending an existing pond and creating an area of bog garden, as well as establishing areas of dead hedging to attract invertebrates and provide hibernacula opportunities for wildlife during the winter.

It is hoped that school children, community groups, local businesses and members of the general public will get involved in practical construction and conservation tasks to make a difference to the site.

There is no barrier to involvement with people of any age, background or skill set encouraged to participate.

It’s hoped that people engaged will be able to use this experience as a stepping stone into the Level 1 conservation skills course at West Boldon Lodge as part of the Groundwork Academy.

Andrew Watts, executive director of Groundwork STAN said: “Monkton Community Woodland is an excellent resource.

“With short walks, cycle rides and picnic areas, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

“In previous years volunteers have created pathways and worked to build a bird hide on the site.

“And now, this very important funding from LEAF will kick-start further plans for the site and enable us to broaden our reach and engage with more members of the community. We are delighted and extremely thankful to have been awarded it.”

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