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 packs feature carefully selected routes and include detailed maps with essential information such as public transport links, benches, path surfaces, and toilet facilities.
It 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.
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."
The Access for All initiative is designed not only to attract new visitors to Nidderdale but also to create volunteering opportunities.
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.
The free packs can be found online at www.opencountry.org.uk.
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