Driffield’s Millennium Green project has received a cash boost to maintain and improve the picturesque site for the benefit of people and wildlife.
The donation of £500 has been made by Driffield based Wolds Ecology is to ensure the ongoing maintenance of the site in order to enhance the Green’s ecological value while maintaining a pleasant environment for the people of Driffield to enjoy.
Wold Ecology Director and Senior Ecologist Chris Toohie has been a trustee of the Millennium Green since 2007 and has been heavily involved with previous grant applications including the Breathing Places grant awarded during 2009, which enabled access improvements, new display boards and habitat management.
Mr Toohie said: “The Driffield Millennium Green is a significant reserve for nature conservation in the town and as a local business.
“It is important that the site is enhanced.
“The current expenditure on site currently exceeds income and Wold Ecology is happy to plug the shortfall during 2012 and in the coming years.”
He added: “Because the site lies adjacent to the regionally important Keld and Elmswell Beck, riparian habitats such as the Millennium Green are becoming increasingly important for protected species that include bats and great crested newts.
“The rich floral diversity that once thrived on the Green has slowly been lost through previous grass cutting regimes and Wold Ecology’s donation ensures that specific grassland management regimes are undertaken and a rich grassland is encouraged.”
Claire Binnington, Millennium Green Trustee and Clerk to the Town Council said: “The Trustees were delighted to receive the donation from Wold Ecology, the Green is financed entirely on grants and donations so this will help us maintain the Green and ensure it continues to be a beautiful open space for the people of Driffield.”
Anyone who wants to know more about the work of Wold Ecology please ring Chris Toohie on 01377 200242 or 07795 071504.