A grant from Broadacres is supporting the efforts of a village community to ensure its green spaces are protected for future generations.
For 1,000 years the village of Husthwaite, between Thirsk and Easingwold, has stood on the edge of the North Yorks Moors – and if the parish council have their way it will still be there come the next Millennium.
The council is at the centre of the thriving community; custodian of the village hall, organising village events and protecting a way of life enjoyed for centuries by residents and visitors to the ancient settlement that lies in a Designated Conservation Area between Thirsk and Easingwold.
Maintaining a balance that resists urbanisation whilst maintaining the amenities required for a sustainable village is at the core of the work of the parish council and that includes making the most of the assets they have.
“We are a very active parish council and protection of green spaces so they can benefit the community is high on our list of priorities,” said Council Chair Carol Fenwick.
This was backed up by a recent survey as part of the Village Neighbourhood Plan which saw recreation and green space score highly in residents’ priorities.
Having identified what needs to be done, financing the work can often prove the tricky part which is why a £300 grant from Broadacres Housing Association is so welcome.
The grant, along with support from the Howardian Hills Project Fund, will allow for fencing around East View Green along with galvanised post holders to protect during grass strimming.
“The community makes great use of this land whether it is children playing or organised events such as the Coronation street party or village picnics,” said Carol.
“There’s a busy road nearby so we have installed a fence and the protectors will ensure the posts don’t get damaged during strimming.”
To find out more about Husthwaite and the work of the parish council visit https://husthwaitevillage.com/
The Broadacres Community Development Fund supports local organisations, groups, and projects in areas where Broadacres has homes. All grants are approved by the Association’s own residents.
Funding from Broadacres’ Community Development Fund has supported the creation of a sensory therapy garden at Avalar Equine Therapy near Northallerton, improving access and enhancing outdoor wellbeing opportunities.
Broadacres has appointed Claire Townson as its new Chief Executive from 1 February. Claire brings extensive senior leadership experience and a strong commitment to social housing, rural communities and customer-focused services.