Peel Park access upgraded

The access to a historic nature reserve in Accrington has been upgraded.

A £25,000 investment by Hyndburn Council has transformed the northern entrance to Peel Park Local Nature Reserve.

The improvements to the area, known locally as ‘The Coppice’, include new steps and complement a series of carefully designed access ramps making the initial incline more manageable for visitors of all abilities.

They are part of a masterplan for the 123.5 acre ‘Green Flag’ holding nature reserve, Lancashire’s largest, developed by the local authority with The Prospects Foundation.

These latest enhancements provide easier access to the reserve’s numerous attractions, including a children’s play area, tennis courts, multi-use games area, an extensive network of paths and the bowling green.

The reserve offers something for everyone, from casual dog walkers and nature enthusiasts to cyclists and runners.

Standing at an impressive 250 metres above sea level, the iconic Peel Monument’ at its heart provides breathtaking views over Accrington and beyond.

Visitors can explore diverse habitats, from semi-natural woodland to water features, and discover the area known as Arden Hall via the network of paths.

Hyndburn Council’s parks boss Cllr Kimberley Whitehead said: “We are proud to continue investing in this cherished green space.

“The dedication of our partners, including the Prospects Foundation and local groups such as the Friends of Arden Hall and the Coppice, has been instrumental in maintaining this site’s status as Lancashire’s largest Local Nature Reserve.

“I’m delighted that we have been able to invest in access improvements which will enable many more people to be able to visit this beautiful green space.”

Robert Gabryszak, local nature reserve project officer for The PROSPECTS Foundation said: “It has been a delight to work on the Northern Gateway with our volunteers to improve its value for pollinators, ensuring that the entrance sets a fantastic first impression of the invaluable wildlife habitat you can find at Peel Park and the Coppice LNR.”

Further landscaping works will take place as the weather improves, with Prospects due to sow wildflower seeds which have been harvested locally.

This will help to attract pollinators to the site.

An open meeting of the Friends of Arden Hall and the Coppice is planned for March, welcoming all who wish to contribute to the preservation and enhancement of the reserve.

The land that now comprises Peel Park and the Coppice was acquired by Accrington town council from the Peel family.

Peel Park was opened in September 1909 in a ceremony that involved 5,000 local schoolchildren, three bands, and local dignitaries.