A Harrogate-based charity has started work on a new accessible path through beauty spot Fishpond Wood, near Pateley Bridge.
Open Country – which helps people with disabilities to access and enjoy the countryside – has a team of members from its conservation groups working hard to complete the project before Christmas.
The team of around 20 people have been shovelling around 50 tonnes of crushed stone to complete a circular walk for visitors, making it more accessible for people using wheelchairs, mobility scooters and pushchairs.
The work by Open Country is part of a project with Nidderdale National Landscape, to make Nidderdale more accessible for visitors.
Open Country’s chief officer David Shaftoe said:
“It’s amazing how smaller scale projects can make a big difference.
“This very satisfying work is helping to open up this beautiful area to more people.”
Fishpond Wood is one of the area’s hidden secrets.
Tucked away in Bewerley, it is an important example of a landscape designed from the 18th century.
The new path will open up access to an historic ice-house and complete a circuit round the pond.

Harrogate BID and Your Harrogate to deliver free social media training for businesses
Supporting Older People's summer ball returns to Harrogate
First look inside Ripon's new health and wellbeing hub
Harrogate MP: Small businesses 'simply cannot afford' shoplifting spate
New salon opens on Knaresborough's High Street
Horticap celebrates double win at Harrogate Flower Show
Harrogate headteacher shortlisted for national award
Harrogate woman wins full tank as part of Free Fuel Friday
Harrogate schoolchildren recognised for protecting wildlife
Planners recommend go-ahead for Harrogate padel courts
Harrogate district businesses shortlisted for annual Muddy Stilettos Awards
Body of man missing for five months found
Roads to close for St George's Parade in Harrogate
Artisan bakery chain tight-lipped on new Harrogate café
Harrogate sisters to run London Marathon for hospice that cared for their mum
Controversial library network reconfiguration has led to better service, say council leaders
Man arrested for false imprisonment after police incident in Knaresborough
North Yorkshire EV charger roll-out 'paused not abandoned'
Councillors agree transfer of historic Ripon Town Hall to city council
Harrogate pupils welcome roarsome visitor to school playground


