Highgate Wood in Fulwood, Preston, was formerly the grounds of Highgate Park, a grand house built in 1876 by James Gregson, an influential Preston businessman. The house was demolished in the early 1960s and some of the grounds now make up the much loved local green space that is Highgate Wood.
Owned by Preston City Council, the wood is part of a wildlife corridor that runs through many built-up areas of Preston.
The Friends of Highgate Wood promote the conservation and enhancement of the Wood, facilitating greater use and enjoyment by the whole community.
Local residents would like information boards. Our boards will show:-
a. A short history of the house and grounds
b. Route descriptions
c. Information about flora and fauna
d. QR links to our website for more information about recent sightings and upcoming fundraising and practical woodland maintenance events.
Keen that our displays should be informative, we have sent out a survey to local residents asking for opinions
What we'll deliver:
Why it's a great idea:
The natural environment of Highgate Wood supports exercise and recreation therefore promoting wellbeing for the local community.
Through the addition of accessible information boards we are looking to raise awareness and make visits more engaging and educational for all.
The boards will inform visitors as to the history of the wood and enhance appreciation of its current function as a wildlife sanctuary in the midst of an urban environment.
The QR codes will link to our website and help to raise awareness of the projects being undertaken within the wood and enable the whole community to share information and contribute to the wider understanding of the flora and fauna contained within it.
This in turn will inform maintenance and future projects to preserve and enhance the environment.
Steps to get it done:
- Appointing a contractor for the boards
- Installation of information boards
- Agree the content of the boards
- Commision artwork
- Opening ceremony
- Publicity of work undertaken
In broad terms, we will deliver sturdy, accessible information boards about Highgate Wood, its biodiversity, culture and heritage.
We will use the feedback from our questionnaires to develop content for the boards and then look to optimise their design with support from a local creatives.
We will also include some information about the Friends along with QR codes to link to our website where visitors can find more information.
