Staffordshire's Green Spaces Get Investment
Cannock Chase, Chasewater and the 92-mile Staffordshire Way will receive £18 million investment.
Staffordshire’s green spaces are the unsung hero of this region. In a world where nature and space are becoming a premium. Our countryside, walkways and parks are a huge advantage for all Staffordshire people.
Thanks to the shape of the six towns in Stoke-on-Trent and the spread of canal and market towns across Staffordshire. Our region is one where everybody can get to green space, unlike other area where a large snow-dome like City eats up all the green space. Our countryside is accessible to all and this is a huge advantage.
Details of how the £18 million will be spent and by when have not been shared yet, however long term plans are:
Redeveloping visitor facilities at Marquis Drive to reflect the Chase’s status as a National Landscape and internationally important habitat for plants and wildlife, while keeping facilities away from the sensitive Special Area of Conservation (SAC).
Upgrading the Innovation Centre and south shore area of Chasewater Country Park to improve the facilities for the local community and visitors from further afield, with a focus on healthy activity within a beautiful, natural environment.
Relaunching, improving and promoting the Staffordshire Way, which runs from Mow Cop to Kinver. As well as promoting physical activity and enjoyment of the countryside, the scheme has the potential to support local businesses and communities to promote tourism.
As well as Cannock Chase and Chasewater, Staffordshire’s countryside estate includes country parks at Apedale, Deep Hayes and Greenway Bank, as well as smaller sites, picnic areas and three greenways.
The council’s country parks saw a big increase in visitors during and after the pandemic, as people rediscovered the natural beauty and open spaces on their doorstep.
It seems that Staffordshire County Council have realised that people’s desire to get outdoors is a huge reason for being in Staffordshire, this statement signals an intent to protect and promote our green spaces.
It’s a smart move, because the future is (and has to be) green.