New woodland near Sprowston is opened to the public

Opening of Harrison's Wood in Sprowston. Pupils from Cecil Gowing Infant School helping to make a den with Matt Davies from Norwich Fringe Project.Picture: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2016)

The picturesque Harrison's Wood, east of Sprowston, is made up of numerous pathways and is home to a variety of bird species.

It was officially opened to the public yesterday following months of work to clear footpaths and improve entrances to the wood.

Ian Moncur, chairman of Sprowston Town Council, said: 'I am delighted that this beautiful area is now open to the residents of Sprowston and I am sure it will enrich the lives of all visitors.

'A walk in woodland to green spaces provides benefits for physical health and mental wellbeing, yet only 18pc of people in the UK have woodland within easy walking distance of their homes.'

The 27-hectare site, which can be accessed via Blue Boar Lane, was once originally part of a much larger Mousehold Heath, but now lies within the White House Farm development.

The woods were originally scheduled to be made accessible at a later stage, but it was brought forward thanks to a £45,000 loan from the Greater Norwich Growth Board.

The project was led by Broadland District Council and the woodland will eventually be passed to the ownership of the town council, which will manage the site.

A new crossing to the site has been installed at Salhouse Road. People can also enter through Blue Boar Lane and park at the Cottage Plantation.

David Willmott, the local authority's member champion for community engagement, said: 'Harrison's Wood is a great community asset which we hope residents will enjoy for generations to come and we thank all our partners for getting the wood ready for public access ahead of schedule.'

Are you campaigning for public access to the countryside near you? Call Luke Powell on 01603 772684.