Craven District Council are working to secure external funding from the Heritage and BIG Lottery Funds Parks for People programme.  This funding programme provides capital and revenue funing for improvements, staffing and activities over a 10 year period.
        

Project Background

Craven District Council’s application to the Heritage (HLF)/Big Lottery’s Parks for People programme has made great progress since early 2007.

The Council secured a project planning grant in February 2007 (£41,200 plus £5,000 partnership funding from Craven District Council).   This was used to provide the skills required to produce documents required by the HLF including a conservation management plan, surveys and extensive consultation. 

Consultants, Scott Wilson and the Community First Partnership were appointed in May 2007.

Ecology, arboriculture, archaeology, drainage and landscape site surveys took place over the summer in 2007.  A household survey was sent to 1500 homes in Skipton - 38.5% returned the survey which is the highest response the Consultants have known.  Park user surveys have also been taking place with the help of the Friends of Aireville Park.  In addition, the Consultants met with many local groups and organisations. 

From the results of the consultation undertaken, we’ve found that there is strong support to provide varied activities and a performance area in the park.

The results of these surveys have helped plan proposed improvements to the park and the way it is used.  An event on 8th November 2007 launched the draft proposals and further comments were invited. 

Plans were finalised, costs established and a grant application of approximately £1.8 million (Grants of between £250,000 and £5 million are available) was made in March 2008.  The Stage 1 grant decision will be made in September 2008.  If the application is successful, further planning is required prior to a Stage 2 application.

Parks for People Fund Background

For the grant application to be successful it must be demonstrated that:
• the community values the park as part of their heritage;
• the park meets local social, economic and environmental needs;
• the park actively involves local people.

Parks for People projects should also offer a wide range of activities that increase learning and enjoyment, and provide volunteering and training opportunities.