An innovative partnership aimed at making Nidderdale more accessible to people with disabilities has reached a significant milestone with the completion of a major project.
The ‘Access for All’ initiative, a collaboration between Nidderdale National Landscapes and the Harrogate-based disability charity Open Country, aimed to improve accessibility and ensure that more people can experience the beauty of this stunning area.
With an £83,000 budget from DEFRA, the one-year project has achieved:
- A strategic mapping of inclusive access opportunities in Nidderdale National Landscape
- Digital access offerings including access video films, and 12 new audio walks
- 12 practical projects that improved inclusive access, including resurfacing and clearance of paths, the removal of barrier gates and new or improved accessible picnic tables at key sites
- A ‘Breakfree’ pack dedicated to accessible walks and trails in the area
- Training in inclusive countryside access topics
- The purchase of three manual wheelchairs for use by groups in the NNL
- Provision of two off road power chairs for visitors to use, which it is hoped will be operating in the area this summer
Open Country, based at Community House in Harrogate, is a charity dedicated to enabling people with disabilities to access and enjoy the countryside and was instrumental in carrying out many of the achievements.
The new Nidderdale ‘Breakfree’ pack is part of a collection, created by the charity, of accessible trails suitable for walking, riding, or wheeling – and are now available for people to pick up and explore new places. The free packs can be found online at www.opencountry.org.uk, or can be requested by E: info@opencountry.org.uk or T: 01423 507227.
The packs feature carefully selected routes and include detailed maps with essential information such as public transport links, benches, path surfaces, and toilet facilities. This valuable resource is designed to help visitors of all ages and abilities to plan their trips with ease and confidence.
The charity has also developed a series of audio walks that bring the sights and sounds of some popular Nidderdale trails to people in the comfort of their homes.
Under Open Country’s expert guidance, and funded by DEFRA, Yorkshire Water has also contributed to improving accessibility at several of its Nidderdale sites. Notable enhancements include new path surfacing at Timble Ings, and a wheelchair-accessible picnic table at Thruscross Reservoir. Additionally, new benches have been installed at Scar House Reservoir and a disabled access viewpoint and picnic table at Angram Reservoir.
David Shaftoe, Chief Officer at Open Country, said: “We are extremely proud of the progress we’ve made so far in our efforts to make Nidderdale more accessible. Our expertise is helping ensure that more people can enjoy this exceptional landscape, regardless of their abilities.”
He continued: “We also want to congratulate Yorkshire Water for their excellent work in improving access at their sites. Their efforts will make Nidderdale a more inclusive and welcoming destination for those who need it most.”
“We believe that everyone, no matter their ability, should have the chance to experience the beauty of Nidderdale. We hope the Access for All project will encourage more people to explore the area and enjoy it first-hand.”
Alastair Harvey from Yorkshire Water said: “Learning from and working with Open Country on improving access to our sites in Nidderdale has been invaluable. We strongly believe that everyone who wants to enjoy the outdoors should be able to, and we’re delighted that we’ve been able to implement the necessary changes and additions at our reservoirs to make that possible.”
Speaking from Nidderdale National Landscape, Iain Mann, Manager said: “We want everyone to be able to enjoy the amazing landscapes we have here in Nidderdale, and the ‘Access for All’ project is a big step in making that happen. It’s been fantastic to team up with Open Country to make real, on-the-ground changes that will make a big difference to people’s experiences. Whether it’s a new bench with a view or a trail that’s now easier to use, it’s all about helping more people feel welcome and able to get out and enjoy nature.”
The Access for All initiative is designed not only to attract new visitors to Nidderdale but also to create volunteering opportunities and foster a more inclusive environment for all. Open Country members have been involved in many of the practical projects, including creating an accessible path round Fishpond Woods, near Pateley Bridge, and helping make paths at attractions such as Brimham Rocks.
Looking ahead, Open Country will continue its collaboration with Nidderdale National Landscapes to carry out further practical improvements
Celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, Open Country has decades of experience in facilitating access to the countryside for people with disabilities. With around 500 active members and over 150 volunteers involved in countryside activities and conservation work, the charity is uniquely positioned to address the challenges faced by individuals with mobility needs.
Breakfree packs and audio walks can be accessed online at www.opencountry.org.uk. Breakfree packs are also available upon request for individuals and organisations via email at info@opencountry.org.uk or by calling 01423 507227.
Image shows Evelyn Southwell from Yorkshire Water; David Shaftoe, Chief Officer at Open Country; Open Country Activity Officer Tom Marsh; Open Country Trustee David Titchmarsh; Iain Mann, Manager at Nidderdale National Landscape and Alastair Harvey from Yorkshire Water.
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