We at Raincliffe Woods Community Enterprise have secured a grant of £113,000 from independent trust Power to Change, which will allow us to employ a woodland manager to look after the development of the 222 hectares of woodland.
We took over the management of the three woods (Raincliffe Wood, Row Brow Wood and Forge Valley National Nature Reserve) from Scarborough Borough Council in 2015 and in 2019 we were granted a 30 year lease to sustainably manage the return of the woods to ancient woodland status. Our board of directors, all volunteers and members of the local community, lead the enterprise. Last year we sold 1100 tonnes of wood to a local timber business. Part of our business plan is to remove many of the larch trees, as well as thin out trees enabling more sunlight to reach the ground, encouraging plants, wild flowers and ferns to flourish. We have been re-planting some native trees to add variety to the woods and attract more birds.
“This grant will enable us to employ a skilled professional who can develop the business plan and expand the range of activities that currently take place in the woods." says Director Robert Peacock. "Providing safe access for pedestrians and cyclists needs further development to allow everyone who wants to use the woods to do so easily.”
Kate Stewart, who is the Director of Programmes at Power to Change, said: “Now, more than ever, the importance of maintaining and protecting our woodlands and green spaces is obvious. We’re delighted to invest in Raincliffe Woods Community Enterprise to do this at this ancient woodland in Scarborough, putting the community in charge of long-term, sustainable management of Raincliffe Wood so that as many people as possible can enjoy walks, exercise and recreation outdoors. We wish them the best of luck.”
Keep checking out the events and news sections on our web site and sign up for our free membership. We are also on facebook: https://m.facebook.com/raincliffewoodcommunityenterprise/ . We need volunteers to help out with various tasks in the woods and everyone is welcome, you don’t need particular skills, just the ability to offer help. You can join our organisation as a member, which is free, this enables you to vote at our AGM and decide who the directors are. If you would like to be considered for a director role contact our Administration.
The Community Business Fund offers grants between £50,000 and £300,000 to existing community businesses, based in England. Grants are designed to help community businesses to grow and become more financially sustainable. For further information follow this link.
