National Trust Expands Plymouth Park by 32 Hectares, Adds Trail, Trees, and a Community Forest Because Nature Is Nice
The National Trust turns farmland into a park, adds a trail and 12,000 trees, and reminds us that nature is not a luxury, but a very nice thing to have.
In a move that will surprise absolutely no one who enjoys fresh air, the National Trust has converted former agricultural land into 32 hectares (79 acres) of new public park space in Plymouth. The expansion 'significantly' increases the trust's holdings at Saltram, and - because they're feeling generous - includes a new 2.5km (1.5 mile) multi-use trail funded by Sport England through the National Lottery and the Trust. Because apparently, walking in a straight line isn't enough, the trail features a series of rest stops with 'stunning views across Plymouth,' and links up with existing paths, including The Dell.
Jez McDermott, the general manager of National Trust Saltram, called the opening 'a landmark moment' for Plymouth and Saltram. He added, with the enthusiasm of a man who's spent too long in a boardroom, that 'This investment in access, wellbeing and nature means more people can enjoy everything Saltram has to offer.' Whether you're walking, wheeling, cycling, spending time with family, or simply taking a moment to enjoy the views, Saltram East is apparently now the place to be - for generations to come, no less.
The trust also claims to have made investments to 'boost the diversity' of nature and wildlife, which sounds official. They've planted new wildflower hay meadows across the site, because nothing says 'biodiversity' like a carefully curated meadow. And if that's not enough, they plan to create a community forest by planting up to 12,000 trees this coming winter. That's a lot of saplings, but hey, who's counting?
For context, the existing country park already attracts about one million visits each year. The trust expects the additional land to provide 'significant health and wellbeing benefits' for locals - a bold claim, but one backed by science, probably.
Lisa Dodd-Mayne of Sport England, fresh from a meeting about active travel, reminded everyone that access to nature 'shouldn't be a luxury.' In a growing city like Plymouth, she says, these new trails will make it easier for people to build active travel into everyday life, get outdoors, and enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of green spaces close to home. Because who doesn't want to walk 2.5km to work?
If you have story ideas about this groundbreaking development, you can email spotlight@bbc.co.uk. But please, don't ask about the water voles or the tallest tree - that's for other articles.
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