Fiona lends a hand to the Dane Valley Project
This joint scheme between Cheshire East Council, Cranage Parish Council and Holmes Chapel Parish Council is intended to improve the area of the Dane Valley owned by Cheshire East Council and that lies between Holmes Chapel and Cranage on the banks of the River Dane.
The comprehensive project has a number of ambitious plans including:
· Upgraded paths and steps to enable more people to use the site in all weathers
· Additional facilities to allow access for less-abled persons with vehicular access for a limited number of cars for the less-abled. Wheelchair access to parts of the valley floor.
· A nature reserve on the south (Holmes Chapel) side of the river with opportunities for educational and leisure use.
· Controlled use of the large flat area on the south side for village (and other organised) events
· Recreational and sporting facilities to the north side (Cranage Parish)
· An intended footpath/cycle path from Cranage to Holmes Chapel via a yet to be constructed bridge providing not only safe access to all users but also a ‘Safe route to school’
· Benches and bins
· Structured planting and management of the flora and fauna.
Fiona assisted with the clearing of some fences and trimming trees and was joined by the 1st Holmes Chapel Scout Group and members of the Holmes Chapel Village Volunteers.
Speaking after the event, Fiona said:
‘The sheer scale of this project is what makes it so impressive. Covering several acres and including facilities for the less-abled and for all ages with interests including walkers, sporting activities and environmental enthusiasts. It is a testament to how the Holmes Chapel Village Volunteers have developed over the past few years into a visionary and highly capable group. This project is capturing the enthusiasm and energy of many other community groups such as the Holmes Chapel Scouts and Beavers – it was heart warming to see dozens of them out on a chilly November morning working hard, clearing overgrown shrubs from the proposed footpaths, hauling redundant fencing away, planting bulbs and generally having a great time together’!
