Development Progress
2016: Restoration of the spoil heap begins.
2018: Demolition and clearance operations of the pit heads and infrastructure completed. The works included permanently filling and capping the two mine shafts.
2019: First plot sale, to Harron Homes for the development of 143 new homes.
2020: Plot sale to Barratt and David Wilson Homes to develop 219 homes.
2022: Restoration of the spoil heap nears completion, with over half of the land transformed to heathland that is consistent with the local landscape. This facilitated the creation of a new 350-acre country, with phased opening of the park anticipated in 2023.
2023: Plot sale to Barratt and David Wilson Homes to develop 174 homes. Works to form the eastern access are completed, which will serve the future employment units at the site and allow construction access for the remainder of the development, helping to separate construction and residents access.
Future plans: The original welders workshop building has been retained and will be restored in due course to accommodate a range of community and leisure uses. Plans are being devised for this restoration, with a planning application targeted for 2023.
Sustainability
With the highest vantage point for miles around, the country park will offer unrivalled panoramic views of Sherwood Forest. With multiple ecological habitats and significant areas of green infrastructure, the aim is the creation of an interconnected landscape to integrate the development seamlessly into the local environment and enhance biodiversity.
This site is a remnant of the historic Sherwood Forest and contains the best remaining examples of oak-birch woodland in Nottinghamshire, together with tracts of acid grassland and heath. The new woodland plantations are an important contribution to achieving decarbonisation targets, with the restoration of the peripheral broadleaved plantation woodland encouraging native species to re-establish, resulting in more natural woodlands that extend, connect and buffer existing woodlands, including the SSSI.
We are providing opportunities for wildlife species, as a result of our Woodland Management works 14 rare birds including protected species not previously recorded since monitoring commenced have been recorded living onsite such as the Welsh Clearwing Moth.
As a further commitment to enhancing the ecology of the local landscape, Harworth has recently partnered with Nottinghamshire County Council to provide inclusive cycle trails and enhanced walking and cycling connectivity for residents and visitors.
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