New funding for Heritage Trail in Matlock
It's one of seven UK projects included
Last updated 29th Jun 2022
Hurst Farm Heritage Trail is one of seven new projects across the UK awarded a share of £13.7million by The National Lottery Heritage Fund on its mission to aid recovery for nature, communities and culture.
Work will include opening up the view again from an historic Matlock landmark - the Wishing Stone. A Lumsdale Valley Viewpoint will be created nearby.
The project will improve biodiversity and involve re-planting 800 new native trees. Around 3,000 aquatic and wildflower plugs will also be planted to help create a habitat for reptiles.
District Council Leader Councillor Garry Purdy said:
"Our thanks go to National Lottery players for making this grant possible. The work our officers and partners continue to do to attract substantial external funding for this brilliant project is nothing short of astonishing.
"What's more, as with the Farmer's View venue, we will be creating a resource for all of Matlock, connecting the communities of Hurst Farm, Asker Lane, Lumsdale and Tansley. All these communities are connected by their use and care for the woodland surrounding Hurst Farm and Lumsdale Valley.
"It will make local heritage and natural heritage accessible and better known within these communities, but also means the natural heritage and the old stone footpaths will be better maintained and protected, safeguarding them for the future."
The Heritage Trail will be created using £500,000 from the Heritage Fund as a capital grant, with the remainder of the money financing revenue funding towards a three-year activity programme to be delivered jointly by the District Council and Hurst Farm Green Estate.