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Project Description

This Durham County Council Countryside project has transformed several Durham Coalfield sites from farmland and conifers into a mosaic of native habitats. The sites are all adjacent to ancient woodlands and other semi natural habitats, and the project's work will allow these habitats to expand and new habitats to be created.

Local people have been involved from the start in the creation of these areas of woodland, wetland, meadow and heath. The sites are accessible, containing information boards interpreting the wildlife and social history and the changes that the sites have undergone.

Over 300 ha of land in Durham County Council ownership has been improved and the Durham Countryside Rangers and Volunteer team have made sure that we have created sustainable sites for wildlife and access.

Length of Project

Start date: July 2003
End date: March 2008

Project Area

The Coalfield sites include:
Aykley Woods and Broompark in Durham City, Burnhill, Chapmans Well, Chester Moor, Cornsay Colliery, Daisy Hill, Deerness View, Egglesburn, South Moor and Willington Woods.

Contact Details

For more information about the Gaunless Valley Visitor Centre contact:
Maria Murphy
Countryside Group, Environment
Durham County Council
County Hall
Durham
DH1 5UQ

Tel: 0191 383 4144
Fax: 0191 383 4096
Email: rangers@durham.gov.uk