Amended 18.12.2007
Wirral Council
Department of Regeneration
Parks & Countryside Service
Wirral Country Park
Management Plan & Security Audit
2007-2012
Contents
1) Introduction and contact details
2) The wider policy context
3) Site information
4) Analysis, assessment and Security Audit
5) Aims and objectives
6) Action plan
7) Monitoring and review
8) Appendix
i. Annual grounds maintenance schedule and proposed annual maintenance regime ii. National Planning Policy
2 1) Introduction and contact details
Wirral Council produced this management plan in conjunction with the Friends of Wirral Country Park its stakeholders and Ward Councillors. The plan is intended to provide a framework for the management, development and improvement of the Park over the next five year period up to 2012. The plan is a working document, which is open to new ideas at any time. We welcome your suggestions and comments for incorporation into this plan, whether you are a local resident, user or organisation. This will help us develop a park that meets everyone’s needs and aspirations.
Wirral Country Park is a long-standing, major leisure and nature conservation resource with an appeal, which stretches beyond its local area into the huge population catchments of Merseyside and the North West region.
Contact details:
Please contact Wirral Country Park on 0151 648 4371/3884, email [email protected]
If you wish to find out further information about this document or to submit any suggestions please contact the Parks and Countryside Service at Wirral Council on 0151 666 4713 or alternatively in writing to:
Wirral Council, Department of Regeneration, Parks & Countryside Service, Westminster House, Hamilton Street, Birkenhead, Wirral, CH41 5FN.
To support or join Wirral Country Park Friends Group contact the Wirral Country Park Visitors Centre, Station Road, Thurstaston, Wirral, CH61 0HN or telephone 0151 648 4371/3884 (10:00a.m to 17:00pm) to obtain an application form.
Departmental Mission Statement
‘Promoting a healthy, safer lifestyle and improving the quality of life for all’.
Aims:
• To enable sustainable, economic, social, neighbourhood and environmental regeneration • To improve the health and well being of Wirral residents • To promote opportunities for personal, community and business development
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2) The wider policy context and its relevance to Wirral Country Park and its influence on this plan
Designations
The main body of the site includes an area, which is locally designated as a Special Landscape Area, and is located within the Green Belt and Coastal Zone. It is not however a Conservation Area nor does it contain a listed building.
The Dee Estuary adjacent to the west of the Country Park is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It has been designated as a Special Protection Area (SPA), and a possible Special Area for Conservation (pSAC), under the European Union’s Habitats Directive. It is a Ramsar Site under the Ramsar Convention of Wetlands of International Importance. It is primarily of importance for its assemblage of wintering waders and wildfowl and as a staging post for migrating birds.
The designated areas of special interest for nature conservation within the park are:
¾ The Dungeon SSSI and also a site of Special Biological Interest (SBI) including semi-ancient woodland and open running water ¾ Dee Cliffs Thurstaston SSSI including maritime grassland and maritime scrub, unimproved grassland and marl pits ¾ Wirral Way (Thurstaston to Heswall) SBI including scrub, woodland standing water and unimproved grassland ¾ Wirral Way (Caldy to Thurstaston) SBI including scrub and unimproved grassland
The Dungeon SSSI and the Dee cliffs are also designated for their geological interest.
Other areas of special interest for nature conservation (non-designated) within the park are:
• Cubbins Green • Thurstaston Visitor Centre grounds including ponds, woodland and scrub • The Gallop Field including pond • Dawpool Nature Reserve
Wirral Country Park also abuts the following designated sites that are in private ownership:
• Dee Cliffs, Caldy SBI • Pipers Lane, Heswall SBI • The Dungeon Pond SBI
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Wirral Council has produced 9 corporate objectives:
PROTECTING AND IMPROVING OUR ENVIRONMENT PROMOTING AND SUPPORTING THE ECONOMIC REGENERATION OF WIRRAL PROVIDING EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL IMPROVING THE HEALTH OF WIRRAL PEOPLE MAKING WIRRAL SAFER MEETING THE HOUSING NEEDS OF WIRRAL SUPPORTING AND PROTECTING VULNERABLE PEOPLE IMPROVING TRANSPORT CONTINUOUSLY IMPROVING SERVICES
Parks and Countryside Service Plan 2007/08
This plan reviews progress during 2006/07 and sets out the targets for the Parks and Countryside Service for 2007/08 within the context of the Council’s corporate objectives (listed above) and the Regeneration Departmental Service Plan for 2007/08.
Wirral Biodiversity Action Plan
This is produced by the Wirral Biodiversity Technical Group. The purpose of biodiversity action planning is to provide a framework for local biodiversity, focusing resources to conserve and enhance biodiversity by means of local partnerships, taking into account both national and local priorities.
Atkins Limited – Wirral Country Park Improvements Study March 2006
Atkins Consultants Ltd were appointed by Wirral Council during 2006 to undertake an improvements study and produce a report focusing on the main Visitors Centre facilities at Thurstaston. The study also required an assessment of the various gateways into the park as well as identifying opportunities for appropriate enhancements to the park’s infrastructure.
Other Relevant Documents
The key documents are:
Quality of Coastal Towns Study Sustainable Tourism on Merseyside Assessment of Coastal Facilities – Atkins 2001 New Regional trail for the North West – Web site initiative Dee Estuary Strategy Regeneration Plan for Hoylake and West Kirby – BDP 2004 Adopted Wirral Unitary Development Plan – February 2000 Wirral Tourism Strategy – Wirral Council document Wirral Country Park A short History – Wirral Council document
5 Wirral Way Restoration and Access Project – Presentation document Wirral Council Numerous Visitor Centre Publications, leaflets and booklets Wirral Cultural Strategy Sustainable development Agenda 21 Regeneration Departmental Service Plan 2007/08
Also see appendix ii National Planning Policy
3) Site information
Name: Wirral Country Park
Grid Reference: 323816, 383471
Address: Station Road, Thurstaston, Wirral, Merseyside
Current facilities and features:
¾ Panoramic estuarine views across the River Dee to the North Wales coast ¾ Visitors Centre ¾ A 9.66 Km (6 mile) linear route the “Wirral Way” used by walkers, cyclists and horse riders ¾ Car park areas ¾ Access to the foreshore of the west Wirral coast and Dee Estuary ¾ Access to Ashton Park West Kirby – a Green Flag Park ¾ Café ¾ Shop ¾ Lecture theatre ¾ Picnic areas ¾ BBQ area ¾ Touring caravan site ¾ Static caravan site ¾ Marl pit ponds ¾ Camp site (currently not being used, future use under review) ¾ Dee Sailing Club
Summary of significant features:
The Wirral Way Footpath, Cycleway and Horse ride Marl pit ponds Thurstaston visitors centre BBQ Area and environs The Dee cliffs SSSI at Thurstaton Ponds within the SSSI Estuarine views
6 Tenure:
The “Wirral Way” footpath was formed from a converted single track railway line from Hooton in the south to West Kirby in the north; this provides the backbone of the park along its full 12 mile length. Wirral Council has responsibility for the section between West Kirby and Gayton some 9.6Km (6 miles). The remainder of the park, Gayton to Hooton, lies within the control of Cheshire County Council.
Wirral Country Park and the associated Wirral Way are owned and managed by the Parks and Countryside Service of Wirral Council’s Department of Regeneration, Cultural Services division.
The Council has lease agreements relating to the Dee Sailing Club and an area of the site to the Caravan Club of Great Britain; who use the land for as a touring caravan site. The land at the southwest end of Station Road is leased to The Thurstaston Caravan Owners Association, who manage the site as a static caravan park and a shared maintenance responsibility exists for the site’s access road.
The kiosk facility at the visitor centre offers confectionary, snacks and hot and cold soft drinks, it is subject to a 12-month leasehold agreement between Wirral Council’s Asset Management Section and the lessee, the cafe currently operates to flexible opening hours commercially consistent with the park’s peak use periods.
A privately owned café is located in single storey premises adjacent to the park’s main entrance at Thurstaston.
The nine bridges that span the Wirral Way located at Church Road, Sandy Lane, Simon’s Bridge, Links Bridge, Station Road, Dungeon Bridge, Delavour Road, Farr Hall Drive and Cottage Lane are the responsibility of Wirral Council’s Technical Services Department.
Summary of main uses:
• Walking • Bird watching • Dog walking • Cycling • Horse riding • A quiet naturalised area for passive and active recreation for all • Photography • Natural History • School visits/ an educational resource • To experience the countryside • The opportunity for members of the public to undertake voluntary conservation work • An events venue
7 • Sailing • Caravanning
Who uses the site?
The park has an estimated 250,000 local and regional visitors per year including 6,000 school children. The site hosts school, university and local interest group activities including an astronomy group.
A survey of visitor numbers to Thurstaston was undertake as part of the study ‘The Quality of Coastal Towns’ published 2000 and reported the following:
Sun. 20th Aug. 2000 Wed. 23rd Aug. 2000 Mon. 28th Aug. (Bank Hol.) 3110 1900 2960
Numbers where recorded from 10:00am -18:00pm at three locations at Thurstaston.
Also see appendix iii ‘Audience Development Plan’
Stakeholders and partner organisations
Park Rangers both Wirral and Cheshire Authorities Hall Farm Natural England Merseyside Police Wirral Council’s Community Safety Team Cheshire Wildlife Trust RSPB Friends of Wirral Country Park Friends of Ashton Park Wirral Council’s Access Officer Wirral Council’s Cycling Officer Tourism and Marketing Section Landowners Café National Trust Liverpool Astronomical Society Dee Sailing Club Caravan Club of Great Britain Thurstaston Caravan Owners Association
Access
Due to the parks linear nature, extending over a distance of 9.6 Km (6 miles), there are numerous access points, either by foot, on bicycle, horse or vehicle. There are three major entrance points, as well as other lesser access points.
8 The three main access points are at:
Grange Road West Kirby to the north Caldy car park and picnic site (off Caldy Road) Station Road to the visitor centre at Thurstaston
The minor access points are situated at:
• Church Road, West Kirby • Melloncroft Drive, Caldy (Cubbins Green) • York Avenue, Caldy (Cubbins Green) • Banks Road, Lower Heswall • Riverbank Road, Lower Heswall • Davenport Road, Lower Heswall • Cottage Lane, Lower Heswall • Croft Drive, Caldy
Wirral Country Park and visitor centre
There is no public transport available directly to the Thurstaston site but a bus service operates from Heswall to West Kirby stopping on Telegraph Road (A540). A pedestrian footpath extends along the eastern side of Station Road the walk is safe but long at 1.5km.
The nearest train station is at West Kirby 5km to the north; visitors can walk or cycle to the Visitor Centre or take the bus and walk the remaining 1.5km.
Access for pedestrians around the site is good with reasonable gradients; there is ample evidence of use by cyclists and horse riders.
The visitor centre provides suitable access for all levels of physical ability; the lecture theatre has been modified to accommodate wheelchair access but does not have a hearing loop currently provided.
The Wirral Way
An all-weather car park is located off Croft Drive Caldy this adjoins the Wirral Way and Cubbins Green. The car park is open daily from 08:00am and is locked by local residents at dusk. It has capacity for up to 80 cars.
The northern section of the Wirral Way, extending from West Kirby to Thurstaston was resurfaced during 2005 restoring the route for all members of the community providing access for mobility scooters, wheelchairs, prams and buggies. The Wirral Way bisects Ashton Park in West Kirby.
Main and Ancillary Car Parking at the Visitor Centre, Thurstaston
A dedicated parking area for disabled visitors is to be constructed on the existing cliff-top overspill parking area during 2007/2008.
9 The main car park is well surfaced, catering for around 160 cars including 4 disabled spaces. The area also caters for coach access and provides a valuable turning space. The car park remains open during the summer evenings and is only locked mid week in the winter if one of the Park Rangers is the last to leave the site each evening.
The main overspill car park is located to the right at the bottom of Station Road opposite main park entrance. This is opened at peak times to provide additional capacity and can accommodate around 338 cars.
Other overspill car parks are located to the north, which can provide access close to the Visitor Centre. The small cliff top car park at the bottom of Station Road is primarily used for organised events it is also used to provide disabled access to the park; it is only open by arrangement with the Visitor Centre. The former campsite is also used occasionally for over-spill parking this has gated access. Both areas are grass surfaced so use is limited and seasonal.
Beach Access
There are two stepped access routes to the beach from the park. They are both situated within a quarter of a mile of the centre. One is close to the caravan site and Shore Cottage to the north; one is located to the south at Tinkers Dell this was upgraded in 2006.
History
Wirral Country Park was one of the first Country Parks in Britain. Country Parks were conceived under the Countryside Act in 1968 as “countryside on the doorstep” of our major conurbations. They were also partly created in order to alleviate the pressure falling on the increasingly popular National Parks.
The park’s origins lie with its spectacular landscape and estuarine location as well as its former use as a rail link on the main Chester-to-Birkenhead line. The park falls within the section between Hooton in the south and West Kirby in the north, a total distance of 12 miles. For 7 of these miles the line ran close to the Dee Estuary.
By 1962 the line was closed and remained redundant. In 1973 with money from the Countryside Commission, the old line was re-opened as Wirral Country Park, the former line having been converted to a permissive footpath “The Wirral Way”. This path forms the backbone of the park, which also embraces the wider areas of The Dungeon (a sandstone gorge woodland), Cubbins Green and the main focus of the park, the Visitors Centre at Thurstaston.
Thurstaston Visitor Centre is long established as the main visitor core and is open 7 days per week. From here there are circular walks, good car parks and numerous paths. There is a linear appeal to the park with the use of the former railway line as the major footway.
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Internationally important nature designations are part of the attraction but come with restrictions on access and use. The park works well on a basic level and its long-term popularity is guaranteed by the spectacular estuarine views and the wealth of bird and other wildlife.
Environmental concerns
The existing Visitors Centre does not meet current building regulation requirements regarding energy efficiency and conservation.
Available resources to conserve; maintain and improve the site
¾ Senior Area Ranger ¾ Ranger (Information Services) ¾ Three part-time Information Assistants ¾ Three full time Park Rangers ¾ One part time Ranger ¾ One Seasonal Park Ranger ¾ Vehicles -1 x Quad bike, 1 x Land Rover, 1 x van ¾ A range of hand and mechanical maintenance tools ¾ Visiting maintenance staff and equipment ¾ Visiting Arboriculture team ¾ Annual operating revenue budget ¾ Volunteers
Marketing information
Wirral Council’s internet website A range of widely available literature, leaflets, booklets etc The Caravan Club of Great Britain website
Summary of the known challenges
• Station Road overspill Car Parking • Visitors Centre in need of refurbishment • Seasonal fire damage to vegetation • Fly tipping • Vandalism • Future use of the former campsite • Surface condition of Wirral Way between Thurstaston and Gayton
Natural landscape features (geology, water, soil types, topology etc): Broad Landscape Context
The following description is taken from the Countryside Commission’s “Countryside Character Volume 2, North West” (1998).
The key characteristics of the Western Wirral peninsula are described as:
11 A landform which slopes gently westward from the mid Wirral sandstone ridge to the coastal strip along the Dee Estuary. A low-lying plain punctuated by wooded sandstone ridges and gorse- clad sandstone outcrops. Formal landscapes created by former large country estates, country parks and mixed agricultural land interspersed with residential development, with extensive areas given over to horticulture. Medium-sized field pattern defined by intermittent clipped hedgerows with copses and field pattern bounded by ditches draining former marshlands. Coastal scenery of intertidal mud/sand flats and salt marshes along the Dee Estuary and extensive dune systems, particularly at Meols. Predominantly mixed woodland with a high proportion of mature pines which are concentrated on sandstone ridges and country estates, as well as extensive areas of heath land associated with sandstone outcrops. Intricate network of lanes, bridleways and footpaths Many garden centres and market gardens.
The designed or manmade features (paths, buildings/structures their condition, life expectancy)
Feature Condition Life expectancy Thurstaston Visitors Construction dates back See Survey Report centre and associated to the 1970s, building maintenance buildings, has a basic range of garages, workshop etc facilities including reception, toilets including a disabled toilet, kitchen, a shop, hide and lecture theatre with information and educational displays. External fabric displaying deterioration e.g. rot to woodwork, window frames etc, broken missing tile cladding to vertical elevations. Camping facility utility A single storey brick See Survey Report building built building dating from the 1970s incorporates toilet and washing facilities. Deteriorating external condition, woodwork, roof etc the building is generally in poor condition Access routes to Station Road steps were Monitor condition, life
12 foreshore with timber reconstructed during expectancy is 10-12 steps (Tinkers Dell & 2004 and are in good years with maintenance Station Road) condition. Tinkers Dell access steps in good condition Surfacing to the 6 Mile Phase one resurfacing linear route shared completed 05/06. between cyclists, Deteriorating condition walkers and equestrians of surface to the northern route The remaining station Constructed from platform at Thurstaston engineering brick - Some displacement of copings and retaining brickwork The Wirral Country Park Surfacing is generally footpath network, steps sound, steps and ramps, walling, constructed from timber lighting railway sleepers are degrading, low level lighting is in working order Associated footpath Generally good to network at various northern section access points Steps linking to various Generally good to bridge access points northern section
A Building Condition Survey of the visitor centre, Rangers Office, vehicle shed and workshop, garages and campsite toilet block was undertaken during September 2006.
The Ecology and Nature Conservation
Refer to Nature Conservation Plan.
Demographic information
The Park is used mainly by the local community who account for 75% of its use but has other regular visitors from the Liverpool, Chester and Manchester areas. Regular users include walkers, cyclists, joggers, dog walkers, bird watchers and horse riders. The peak use is at weekends during the summer months although the site is used throughout the year.
Socio-economic information
According to the 2001 Census the total population for Wirral was 312290, 9450 (6.92%) aged 16 to 65 were unemployed. Owner occupiers of property totalled 97200 (72.9%), 14560 (10.92%) rented council houses, 7550 (5.66%)
13 rented Housing Association property, 13990 (10.49%) rented privately owned property.
Number of visitors
The park has a huge catchment area within a two hours drive time and following it’s opening soon proved popular, initially attracting over 500,000 visitors per annum. These numbers have since fallen but the park still regularly attracts around 250,000 visitors (from Atkins ‘Quality of Coastal Towns’ Study Vol 2 2001).
See Wirral Country Park Audience Development Plan 2006.
How is responsibility divided up?
Following the 1974 boundary changes that took Wirral out of Cheshire and into Merseyside the park was managed in its entirety by Wirral Council, with a third of the funding coming from Cheshire and a third from the Countryside Commission. The Countryside Commission funding was awarded on a 10 year decreasing scale. In the late 1980’s early 1990’s Cheshire County Council decided to manage the section of the park that fell within the Cheshire boundary themselves.
Today Cheshire County Council manages the section of the Wirral Way from Gayton Golf Course to Hooton and Wirral Council manages the section from Gayton Golf Course to West Kirby.
How many staff and what are their functions?
The Wirral Way and Country Park are managed by:
One Senior Area Ranger – Manages the park and staff Three full-time Rangers – Maintain the park, manage visitors, take school parties, lead guided walks, give talks, attend meetings and produce interpretive material One part-time Ranger – duties as above One seasonal Ranger – Assists Rangers with the above duties with a greater emphasis on park maintenance work One full-time Ranger (Information Services) – With specific duties for interpretation and information, supports the Senior Ranger, runs visitor centre, carries out book-keeping and runs the visitor centre shop, manages part-time information staff and provides administrative support for the Ranger Service. Three part-time Information Assistants – Support capacity for Ranger (Information Services), cover rest days and annual leave, assist with running of the visitor centre shop One contract Cleaner – 3 hours per six days per week to clean the Thurstaston Visitor Centre Grounds maintenance comprising routine programmed work, winter work programme and other work as required, provided by the Parks
14 and Countryside Service’s gardeners. This input equates to three full time employees.
The current management structure for Wirral Country Park is:
Head Ranger | ------Senior Area Ranger WCP ------| | Ranger (Info. Services) Area Rangers | | Visitor Centre staff Volunteers
How are decisions taken?
Day to day operational decisions are made by the Senior Area Ranger Decisions with financial implications are discussed with the Head Ranger or Principal Officer Parks Development Policy decisions are discussed with the Head Ranger and or the Principal Officer Parks Development Rangers are also permitted to take on the spot decisions involving the day to day maintenance of the park, but are required to inform the Senior Area Ranger as soon as possible The Senior Area Ranger controls the annual budget allocation and issues petty cash
What skills, qualifications does the workforce have?
The Ranger’s role is extremely diverse spanning education, customer care, volunteer management and estate maintenance; hence the skills, qualifications and training are equally varied to support these duties.
Are skill gaps constraining the service?
The Senior Area Ranger has prepared a future training plan for the park’s staff in order to address current skill gaps.
What responsibility do stakeholders have?
At present the only stakeholders that share responsibility for aspects of the parks management are Natural England who are consulted with on certain issues, such as management of the Dee Cliffs and the Dungeon SSSI and the National Trust who own Heswall Fields. It is the aim to involve other park stakeholders such as horse riders, birdwatchers, ramblers and other user groups in the future management of the park. To help achieve this aim a Friends of Wirral Country Park group has been established.
Environment Agency Wales – re surface water drainage from cliffs into Dee Estuary
15 How is income and expenditure structured?
The revenue budget for Wirral Country Park is included with Wirral’s Ranger Service. This central budget covers staff costs, uniforms, personal protective equipment (PPE), vehicles, utilities services and day-to-day repairs.
The Senior Area Ranger for Wirral Country Park manages a miscellaneous budget of £7000 per annum, for items such as stationary and office equipment, tools and equipment, materials (timber, stone etc) for site maintenance, clothing for volunteers, on site waste disposal (bins, bin bags, skip hire etc) and maintenance contracts for security alarms, pest control and fire protection.
Some revenue is raised by a token charge levied against schools from outside Wirral for Ranger led activities and from hiring out the Lecture Theatre.
The Kiosk facility situated within the visitor centre is subject to a lease agreement with a private individual.
Is there potential for capital investment?
The park now requires considerable capital investment to ensure facilities meet the expectations of visitors and users now and going forward.
An extensive programme of improvement and upgrading to the park’s amenities and infrastructure will re-establish the park as a high quality destination with first class educational and visitor facilities.
What standards are management trying to achieve and does current performance match-up?
The intention is for the park to achieve the standards as defined by the Green Flag Award Scheme.
Partnerships
At present Wirral Country Park is not in formal partnership with any organisation but works closely in co-operation with several interest groups including:
RSPB Wirral Wildlife Various Friends Groups
4) Analysis, assessment and Security Audit
A decline in investment in green space over previous decades has seen maintenance standards and the condition of facilities and infrastructure within municipal parks decline.
16 The current condition of the Park has been assessed using the following criteria as defined by the Civic Trust’s Green Flag Award scheme:
i. A welcoming park ii. Healthy, safe and secure iii. Clean and maintained iv. Sustainability v. Conservation and heritage vi. Community involvement vii. Marketing viii. Management
i) A welcoming park
Wirral Country Park - Thurstaston
The Wirral Country Park centre lies at the western end of Station Road a 5.6m narrow width tarmac-surfaced access off the main Telegraph Road A540, which runs north to South from Chester to West Kirby. There is signage indicating the Park is situated on the A540 junction with Station Road.
A pilot scheme to test the viability of a bus serving the centre was tested over peak periods during the 1980’s but was withdrawn due to lack of demand.
A large timber sign with routed lettering is situated adjacent to the park’s main entrance and displays opening times.
The main car park has been created from the former railway station and is well surfaced; a site information interpretive panel and location map are positioned at the car park entrance. Four parking bays are currently provided for visitors with mobility difficulty.
Main car park Main car park
During peak times the car park has problems with capacity requiring a number of overspill areas to be considered for use. The main overspill car park is informally surfaced in grass and compacted stone; the surface is unsuitable for wet weather parking which limits its usefulness. Due to poor drainage the car park is rendered unusable for much of the year. The car park is gated and well screened with mature trees, hedging and scrub however the nine small copses of Poplar and Whitebeam separating the ten parking bays have
17 become over mature and deprive the ground of light adding significantly to the drainage problem. The perimeter of the site is surrounded by over-mature Poplar trees again depriving sunlight and preventing the ground from drying, There is, poor signage and information available within the car park; hedging restricts visibility along Station Road. Better use could be made of a path linking the car park to the Visitors Centre under the adjacent bridge, this would help reduce road crossing by pedestrians at this busy junction. The presence of the hump back bridge also restricts visibility for traffic coming from the adjacent caravan park.
There is limited shelter and gathering space for the many groups who use the park but good open space is provided in front of the centre with undulating grassland. This area contains a small stone memorial and barbeque and picnic areas with decked access, extending across a pond, to the Visitor Centre and excellent views across the Estuary.
The Visitor Centre dates back to the early 1970s and provides a basic range of facilities including toilets, a disabled toilet, a shop, bird hide and lecture theatre with information and educational displays.
Although Wirral Country Park provides access for all, further access improvements should be carried out for people with disabilities, including wheelchair users, people who are blind, deaf or have a learning disability.
Currently the Visitor Centre lacks arrival experience lacking the presence and stature a focus building requires for such a high quality environment; there is poor visibility to and from the building. The centre’s internal spaces are of a low quality and facilities in particular the toilets, classroom and lecture theatre are now outdated. Ad hoc and outdated information is provided. The route from the car park to the building is convoluted and confusing. The Centre provides a kiosk selling soft drinks, confectionary, ices, crisps etc but does not currently have a café. The Centre is the focus of the Country Park it is staffed and is open every day of the year, between 09:00am and 17:00pm, with the exception of Christmas Day.
Events programmes and leaflets are available in the centre supporting the numerous walks and talks available, along with several displays and photographs charting the history, wildlife and geology of the area. Many of these have been present since the opening of the centre. There is a web site showing nesting barn owls in the park’s maintenance depot building, videos from the RSPB and other educational aspects are also available. A number of popular walks are advertised at 2, 4 and 6 miles.
The Wirral Way Restoration and Access Project, phase one, completed April 2005, has led to a considerable improvement in access for visitors of all levels of physical ability the scheme was funded through Mersey Waterfront Grant Support and the Wirral Council Local Transport Plan. It is intended, subject to available funding, to undertake phase 2 of the work, continuing from Wirral Country Park through to Gayton during 2008. The work has greatly improved
18 accessibility to the park for all and provides duel use for walkers/cyclists and horse riders.
The Wirral Way
Along the length of the 9.6 Km linear route there are a number of gateways. These take the form of car parks; providing access points to Wirral Country Park.
1) Riverbank Road, Heswall – This site is detached from the Wirral Way and is located approximately 400m from Wirral Way and linked to the park via the foreshore. It is nevertheless a minor gateway to the estuary and the southern most vehicular access point. It is situated 6km from the Visitors Centre and has limited access to the shore. The site is not signed from any main or approach roads and would prove difficult to find for first-time visitors. The small car park has surface marking for 30 cars and is in reasonable condition. A small picnic area and footpath lead off in a northerly direction. A single timber sign gives information on events and attractions. This is in a poor state of repair. Seating is damaged and no longer usable, there are 2 litterbins, no lighting and a cast iron pale blue balustrade. The cobbled slipway provides access to the marsh.
2) Davenport Road – A break in the route occurs at this point requiring users to continue along the road for a distance of 0.66 km before rejoining with the route at the Riverbank Road entrance point. The access point is unkempt and the timber Wirral Country Park sign is lying collapsed.
3) Banks Road (car park close to Sheldrakes Restaurant) – This site is also detached from the Wirral Way and is approximately 4 km from the Visitors Centre at Thurstaston again linked to the park via the foreshore. The Wirral Way is accessed via Banks Road footpath which leads to an awkward access off 3 minor road junctions. The Wirral Way is signed at this location but there are no directions to the Wirral Way from the car park. There is no signing to the car park from the main approach roads. The car park is poorly surfaced with numerous potholes having capacity for approximately 200 cars the surface is unlined. There are a couple of picnic tables and a few litter bins, a timber notice board provides information of events but contains no information regarding location or the site’s position within the overall park. Two buses call at the site. Situated 318m from Wirral Way.
4) Caldy/Cubbins Green – A grassland area consisting in size of approximately 2.76 Hectares fronting the Dee Estuary. The site is situated approximately 2km south of West Kirby and 2.5km north of the Visitors Centre and provides another important gateway onto the Wirral Way and Dee Estuary. The site lies within the residential area of Caldy. It has no signs from the main or approach roads. The site has a large well surfaced and lined car park catering for around 180 cars; dense vegetation screens the area from neighbouring property. There are two litterbins and directional signage but no interpretation at the car park. A short path takes visitors to the Wirral Way and Cubbins Green. A small ramped access forms a route to the beach. There is a
19 small pond that struggles to maintain water during the summer months, the area is currently promoted as a Picnic site and affords spectacular views of West Kirby, Hilbre Island and the Dee Estuary across the mud flats to Wales. During the summer months an abundance of wild flowers can be found including the rare Bee Orchid. The area is also ideal for bird watching and sea fishing. Cubbins Green is also a popular place for dog walkers and is well used by local residents.
5) Ashton Park – Situated within a few hundred metres of the West Kirby terminus of the Wirral Way and is the natural gateway from the more populated end of the park. There are several entrances located at the southern end; a new ramp has been constructed to facilitate access for disabled users. The linking interface between Ashton Park and the Wirral Way could be better defined. The transitional relationship between the urban park, with its ornamental quality and the natural informality of the Wirral Way could be considerably improved and the benefits associated with the relationship between these two resources better exploited. A creative solution aimed at maximising the heritage of this gateway feature should be sought.
6) West Kirby gateway terminus – The entrance is low-key consisting of a timber 5-bar gate, for maintenance vehicle access, with post and rail fencing, signage, two notice boards, a gap forms the entrance for pedestrians. A number of adjacent on-road limited time car parking spaces are available. West Kirby rail station and taxi rank are located approximately 200m away. The 1.5-mile section from West Kirby to Caldy like the entire Wirral Way is based on the old railway line. The track bed forms the footpath which is a permissive right of way and is joined at Church Road West Kirby by a horse ride, both run parallel to the Dee Estuary for much of the length. There are nine brick built railway bridges, one iron bridge and one wooden bridge which form interesting architectural features along the route.
7) The Dungeon Wood – Designated a S.S.S.I, it is a 3.94 Hectare (9.75 acre) site of predominately Oak Woodland with a small ravine. Situated around half a mile from the main Wirral Way to the south of the Visitor Centre and to the east of the Wirral Way. It is signed from the main path and is accessed via a narrow un-surfaced route. One bench is provided. The site provides pedestrian access only other than negotiated vehicle access with neighbouring landowners, which can prove difficult due to either cattle or crops in the surrounding fields.
20 8) Church Farm – Located close to the junction of Telegraph Road and Station Road.
ii) Healthy, Safe and Secure
A scheme proposed by Wirral Council’s Technical Services Department is currently being considered to provide a new roundabout at the key junction of Station Road Telegraph Road. This would improve visibility and safety aspects, which are currently impaired by the approach levels and the presence of local boundary walls and vegetation.
During out of season periods Station Road some motorists exceed the designated 30 mph limit, however with the present lack of signing this is not immediately apparent to users.
The existing visibility at both the access to the main and overflow car park is poor; below 20m to both the east and west from a point 2.4m back from the give-way line.
The park is covered under the Fouling of Land Act 1996 and is designated a ‘canine faeces removal area’. The act makes it an offence not to clean up in a public area if a dog under your control does foul. Powers to enforce £50 fixed penalty notices on offenders where extended to include Wirral’s Community Patrol Officers in August 2007.
Some dog fouling does occur within the park. Due to the linear nature of the country park it is difficult to enforce the ‘clean it up’ policy. Litterbins are used by some dog walkers for the disposal of waste this however can create a problem for the park’s staff when emptying the bins.
Wirral Council operates a 24 hour Community Patrol force, established to provide a response to any concern notified to them regarding anti-social behaviour occurring within Council owned land. The Patrol can be contacted on telephone number 666 5265
The Parks and Countryside Service are represented on the Junior Joint Agency Group (Junior JAG), a forum consisting of Merseyside Police, Community Safety, and Youth workers. Issues regarding security in parks are raised at the meeting with the intention of providing a multi agency approach to addressing problems.
The park is covered by Byelaws, made under Section 164 of the Public Health Act, 1875,
A Security Audit undertaken during autumn 2006 assessed the park under the following 9 criteria:
1. Sight-line visibility 2. What evidence is apparent of anti-social behaviour or undesirable activity in the park?
21 3. Motor vehicles 4. The park at night 5. Pathways, pedestrian routes 6. Boundaries 7. Buildings 8. Where there any staff present within the park? 9. Is the park well cared for?
Sight-line visibility
The northern section of the Wirral Way is situated close to the heavily populated area of West Kirby. The southerly section, by its nature extends through uninhabited areas, adjacent to outlying farmland, golf courses and rural countryside. This can create a feeling of isolation, which may be unsettling for some lone users. Long straight views are provided along the length of the route consistent with it’s formation from the track bed of the former Hooton to West Kirby railway line.
As part of the Wirral Way Restoration and Access Project, phase one, undertaken along the West Kirby to Thurstaston section, tree pruning and selected removal together with hedge cutting and pruning back of overhanging vegetation has significantly improved sight-line visibility along the route with the added benefit of opening up views. It is anticipated that similar work between Thurstaston and Gayton, phase two will equally lead to similar improvement. The route currently has a ‘tunnel like’ feel associated with dense overhanging vegetation from joining tree canopies situated along either side of the route.
Evidence of anti-social behaviour
Wirral Council’s Community Safety’s ‘Crime and Grime’ data based on the period January to March 2006 indicate that the following incidents occurred in the vicinity of the visitor centre:
Criminal damage – 1 Drugs – 5 Theft – 11 ASB – 7
The data for the 2nd quarter of 2006 indicates problems dropped off significantly, however as recording only began in January, it will be necessary to assess data for the full year over a period of three years in order to establish a clearer picture of the level and type of incidents occurring.
Some graffiti was apparent along the Wirral Way for example to the road bridges situated in proximity to habitation, also the electricity sub-station located at the West Kirby terminus exhibited graffiti.
22
Motor vehicles
Within the car park areas adjoining the Wirral Way numerous warning signs, highlighting theft from vehicles, have been provided.
The park at night
The park and Wirral Way do not have lighting. The only illumination is provided by low-level lighting to the access point to the visitors centre from the main car park. The gates to the main and overspill car parks are closed at 17:00 during the autumn winter period and when the last staff member leaves the site during the spring summer months.
Pathways, pedestrian routes
The surfacing along the Wirral Way section extending from West Kirby to Thurstaston was replaced during 2005 and now provides a sound surface for both walkers and cyclists. Post and rail fencing installed during the scheme better defines the route. Steps formed from railway sleepers in the vicinity of the visitor centre have become worn and smooth and could become slippery in wet conditions.
Boundaries
Extending for a distance of 12 miles (19.3 Km) this figure includes both sides of the Wirral Way, the boundary of the Wirral Way is defined by a variety of fencing and hedging, boundaries to neighbouring agricultural land largely consists of timber post and rail fencing with stock-proof wire and barbed wire. Neighbouring privately owned property timber close-board fencing erected sometimes with the addition of planted hedging. The timber post and rail fencing to the boundary with Heswall Golf Club has partially collapsed.
Buildings
The visitor centre, depot garages and workshop are fitted with burglar alarms connected to Wirral Council’s Community Safety control-room; the Senior Area Ranger is the designated key holder for the premises. Roller shutters are fitted externally to windows and doors. The former campsite utility building is unprotected and has on previous occasions sustained damage.
23 Were any members of staff present within the park?
During the assessment of the park against the Green Flag Award criteria and the Security Audit, Park Rangers were present within the car park and depot area at Wirral Country Park, but no staff where encountered along the Wirral Way.
Is the park well cared for?
Wirral Country Park and the northern section of the Wirral Way exhibit a good level of care; clearly benefiting from the restoration work, which occurred during 2005, in contrast the southern section of the Wirral Way, Thurstaston to Heswall, now appears to lack maintenance attention. The footpath surface is degraded, dense vegetation obscures views, tree canopies meet reducing light and air to the route which then remains damp, in places the barrier fencing separating the horse ride from the pedestrian/ cycle route is missing or requires repair. Sections of boundary fencing requires repair.
iii) Well maintained and clean
The Park and Wirral Way should aspire to achieve the standard required as defined by the Green Flag Award scheme.
A regime of programmed maintenance takes place provided by Wirral Council’s in-house operational grounds maintenance service; see Appendix i ‘Maintenance Schedule’, work is carried out to meet general standards set out in a Borough wide grounds maintenance frequency based specification. The specification sets out corporate standards of maintenance, a ‘job card’ is issued every three months and indicates the operations anticipated during the period.
The Senior Area Ranger prepares a programme of ‘winter-works’ to be undertaken each year by the grounds maintenance team.
The Rangers carry out regular inspections to identify defects within the park that present a safety problem for staff, users and adjacent residents. The following items are appraised:
1. Paths, steps, ramps 2. Walls, fences, gates 3. Buildings 4. Furniture – signs, litterbins etc 5. Soft landscape – grass, planted areas, water features etc 6. Trees
Fencing on the Wirral Way
Fencing forms an important aspect of the Wirral Country Park. It identifies ownership of the park, gives a clear signal to walkers and visitors of what constitutes the park and what is private land, it acts as a stock proof fence in
24 areas where cattle are kept. It denotes the parks boundaries and eliminates the possibility of boundary disputes, especially with residents that have property backing on to the park and provides a uniform appearance.
At present there are no planning conditions placed on private fence boundaries abutting the Wirral Way, this has led to a variety of differing styles and designs in some cases resulting in a detrimental appearance.
There are boundary fences on either side of the Wirral Way with a dividing fence separating the footpath and the horse ride. All associated footpaths have post and wire fencing. A local farmer has written agreement with the Council stating that the Council will maintain the stock-proof fence surrounding sections of his land. Most if not all the fencing is the original and is now 30 years old. The average life expectancy of the type of fencing used at the time, Oak posts and softwood rails or high tensile wire is 10 years. Much of the fencing has either collapsed or is no longer effective; it is anticipated considerable cost will be incurred in replacing it.
Surfacing along the Wirral Way
The section extending between West Kirby to Thurstaston has been re- surfaced with ‘Leisure Treck’. During inspection in November 2006 leaf fall remained on the surfacing. This could eventually result in deterioration of the surface condition if not removed.
The horse ride
Sections of the route are currently liable to flooding during periods of wet weather. This particularly occurs along sections between Thurstaton and Gayton; these wet areas can take an excessive amount time to dry-out due to the density of overhanging tree canopies which deprives the surface of light and air. In some cases branches from trees situated adjacent to the ride extend across the route presenting a potential risk to users and impeding the passage of horses and riders. Porous material is not spread on the softer areas of the route in order to improve the surface.
Trees
Wirral Council’s grounds maintenance staff undertake a programme of seasonal tree work. Individual property owners who neighbour the Wirral Way make considerable requests for tree pruning which can be difficult to accommodate.
Signage
Signage is largely old and outdated throughout and needs to be re-evaluated and funding sourced to enable improvement.
25 Fly-tipping
The park is a linear route with many hundreds of properties neighbouring it. Some householders dispose of garden refuse over the boundary depositing it onto the Wirral Way.
iv) Sustainability
Recycling is currently undertaken at a low level and occurs where deemed practical. Should funding become available the opportunity exists for the park to be placed at the forefront of Wirral’s parks in demonstrating sustainable best practices and providing a good example of environmental awareness in its management. The park should aim to exhibit best practice regarding use of renewable energy, and seeking to minimise the buildings overall carbon foot- print, through the introduction of increased on-site composting, alternative sustainable energy production including for example the employment of bio- mass and geo-thermal heating systems coupled with supplementary use of both wind and solar power and improved building insulation. The aim should be to become exemplary in this regard.
The visitor centre, built circa 1970, does not presently conform to current building regulations in terms of energy efficiency the current heating system is provided via an oil-fired boiler. An opportunity exists for the centre to be redeveloped and placed at the forefront of alternative technologies befitting a public building within an important Country Park and utilising, amongst others, the following environmentally considerate features:
A building that leaves as small an environmental footprint as possible, is economic to run over its whole life cycle, and fits well with the needs of its users A building that is energy and carbon efficient, designed to minimise energy consumption, with effective insulation and the most efficient heating/cooling systems and appliances A minimum of waste in its redevelopment to maximise re-use of on- site materials A building designed to enable its occupants and users to use less water, through, for example, the installation of more efficient fittings and appliances A building designed to make recycling and composting easy for occupants and users
As stated public transport operators do not provide a bus service directly to the park, as this is considered currently commercially unviable.
Water and energy consumption at the park is monitored and where necessary modification is made to minimise wastage, thereby achieving economies in usage in line with the Council’s Environmental Policy.
Green waste generated at the Park is not currently composted.
26 An environmental audit of the park is to be undertaken, the scope of which is to identify the aspects and impacts arising from the management and operational activities of Wirral Country Park.
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (C.O.S.H.H.) assessment records of all chemical based products used within the park are available to all staff and chemical usage conforms to the requirements defined within the current pesticide handling regulations.
Resurfacing of the Wirral Way between West Kirby and Thurstaton utilised ‘Leisure-Treck’ a reconstituted material derived from building waste and retained within timber edging derived from a sustainable source.
Tractor and mowing equipment are checked for emission levels.
v) Conservation and Heritage
A conservation plan considering the management of the park’s various designations will be prepared during 2007.
A sandstone monument with brass plaque commemorating the opening of the park is situated on the open grass area in proximity to the visitors centre.
The main remaining heritage features associated with the former railway are the brick built station platform at Thurstaston and the five road bridges spanning the former track/Wirral Way. A track-side gradient marker can still be seen near to the Dovepoint Road access point.
The ‘Marl Pit’ ponds at Wirral Country Park probably remain from the1800’s when they where dug in order to extract nutrient rich clay (marl), which was used as an agricultural fertilizer and for pottery making. Marl pits can be dated back to the post-medieval period and their existence is often evident through field and place names. The pits where likely to have been abandoned during the mid 19th century and became filled with water to become the pond cluster visible today.
vi) Community Involvement
The park has a Friends Group with a current membership of 30 the group meet on a regular basis and invite Officers and management to attend their meetings. The Friends produced a Wirral Country Park leaflet during 2007.
A grant of £3900 was secured from Mersey Waterfronts Regional Park during 2007 to help to further develop community engagement in the management of the park.
27 vii) Marketing
The Wirral Council Internet web site, www.wirral.gov.co.uk has links to the Parks and Countryside Service, the site contains information specific to Wirral Country Park. Numerous publications and leaflets regarding the site are available.
A study for the Wirral Tourism Strategy considering, the ‘Wirral Coastal brand development 2006’, was undertaken on behalf of Wirral Council’s Tourism and Marketing Section and overseen by the Wirral Coastal Partnership group. Wirral Country Park has been categorised as a ‘Tier One’ attraction, “an asset that is currently a prime visitor attraction for a cross sector market”.
The Asset Audit for the study goes on to say “these Tier one attractions provide visitors with a natural experience and a sense of escape, but within a controlled framework of essentially high-end, aspirational values (natural escape but within a well-kept park environment; a strong sense of cultural and historical value; good basic facilities – toilets, transport, refreshments)”. Wirral Country Park is identified in the study as an “iconic asset that truly represents the Wirral Coast character and the brand essence and values”.
Marketing of the park’s lecture room and function facilities is currently limited with the potential existing to generate additional income through increased usage.
viii) Management
Following re-organisation of The Parks & Countryside Service in 2004 the following management structure was put in place.
Director of Regeneration | Head of Cultural Services | Head of Parks & Countryside | Principal Officer (Parks & Countryside) | Principal Officer Parks Management- - - Principal Officer Parks Development | | | Area Parks Manager Senior Parks Development Officer Head Ranger | | | | Parks Development Officer | Assistant Area Parks Manager ------Senior Area Ranger | Ranger (Information) | | | | Chargehand Gardener Information Assistants Area Rangers | | Gardeners Volunteers
28 5) Aims and Objectives
Aim:
To make the park more welcoming
Objective:
Enhance the safety of the Station Road approach to Thurstaston
Provide enhanced arrival experience with the Visitor Centre visible from the Wirral Way
Provide additional outdoor seating in vicinity to the barbecue areas
Ensure good internal to external relationship of the visitor centre
Internal spaces to provide good arrival and gathering spaces for visitor parties and, electronic information and subsidiary exhibition areas and flexibility
Provide modern toilets, shop, café and lecture facilities and office space within the Visitors Centre
The pathway network around the wildlife Marl Pits requires improvement and increased interpretation, screen hide, scrub encroachment control
Improve signage, surfacing and drainage to the main overflow car park to maximise efficiency
Provide pedestrian access link between the overflow car park and park with signage and ramp for wheelchair/mobility scooter users
Resurface the Wirral Way between Thurstaston and Gayton
Open up selected views along the Wirral Way by hedge lowering and selected tree removal to reveal more of the landmarks, vistas, countryside and estuary views
Reinstate footbridge to span Melloncroft Drive West to provide continuity of the route
Improve signage and interpretation throughout the site and on key approach routes and to and from satellite car parks
Improvements to Wirral Way Access points
Car park improvements
29
Re-surface Gayton car park
Utilise main car park for priority access for disabled visitors and school/educational parties
Provide low key lighting to route from main car park to visitors centre
Improve the linking relationship between the Wirral Way and Ashton Park
Improvements to the West Kirby terminus to include improved signage, and interpretation
Introduce enhancements to the walking experience i.e. provide sculptural features, interpretation and additional viewing areas at key locations
Consider options for the future use of the former camp site
Incorporate the kiosk facility into the Visitors Centre
Improve the provision and quality of furniture within the Thurstaston centre and the park, bins and picnic benches
Provide new viewing platform at Cubbins Green
Aim:
To make the park healthy, safe and secure
Objective:
Provide traffic calming along Station Road install raised junction at entrance to park
Improve pedestrian and vehicular access between Wirral Country Park and the Station Road over-spill car park
Undertake proposed restoration and access improvement to the Wirral Way between Thurstaston and Gayton
Assess Community Safety ‘Crime and Grime’ data and monitor incident levels, types and frequencies
Establish a procedure of rapid response to incidents of vandalism and graffiti
Improve lighting within the main car park at Wirral Country Park
30 Increase staff presence and make identifiable to visitors within the Wirral Way
Aim:
To ensure the park is well maintained and clean
Objective:
To achieve the standard as defined by the Green Flag Award
Prepare programme of renovation for the horse ride including drainage improvements, surface repair and the pruning back of overhanging vegetation
Survey and produce a management plan for the significant trees situated along the Wirral Way
Review options for grounds maintenance provision
Introduce seasonal maintenance programme for leaf removal from the restored sections of the Wirral Way
Repair/replace all missing and damaged timber post and rail fencing throughout as necessary
Aim:
To improve the overall sustainability of the site and to place Wirral Country Park at the forefront of good practice in it’s management
Objective:
Undertake environmental audit of the park’s management to ensure best practice is applied where possible
Improve the energy efficiency of the visitor centre through employment of green energy sources including consideration of solar, wind power, wood-fired heating systems and renewable energy sources such as ground source heating
Increase efficiency in resource management through energy saving measures such as improved insulation of the visitor centre building, energy saving lighting and the reuse of grey water
Promote and encourage further use of cycling through hire facilities and satellite outposts
31 Promote organic, GM free foods via the café and centre shop
Aim:
To maintain and improve the park’s conservation and heritage value
Objective:
Produce a Wirral Country Park Conservation Management Plan considering the management of the parks key designations
Aim:
To improve community involvement in the management and maintenance of the park
Objective:
Further develop the existing Friends Group
Improve the executive management of the park between the various groups, authorities and interested parties
Aim:
To improve the marketing of the site
Objective:
Promote the site’s historical and geological attractions as well as the wider Dee Estuary
Update and improve promotion of circular walks, The Dungeon area and Hall Farm etc
Improve the information content and quality of the Wirral Council internet website
6) Action Plan
Lead Officer When Funding Aims and objectives source 1.To make the park more welcoming 1.1 Improve safety of the Station Road approach road in conjunction with Technical Services Department 1.2 Improve the arrival experience of the
32 Thurstaston visitor centre, increase visibility of the building from the car park area 1.3 Provide additional barbeque areas with seating to relieve pressure on the existing facility 1.4 Improve the linkage between the visitor centre and the main and overspill car parks increase the visibility of the building 1.5 Enhance the visitor arrival experience at Wirral Country Park, create a meeting point for groups, signage, interpretive information, develop a stronger relationship to visitor centre, access improvements (steps, ramps and pathways) 1.6 Internal improvement to centre to include toilets, exhibition area, office accommodation, shop, café and lecture facilities 1.7 Access improvement to Marl Pit ponds from car park & centre and circulation within the area – improved surfacing, signage/information, screen hide etc 1.8 Upgrade the over-spill car park to include drainage improvements, surfacing and signage 1.9 Provide improved linkage between the over-spill car park and visitor centre/park and the Wirral Way 1.10 Resurface the Wirral Way with ‘Leisure Trek’ Thurstaston to Gayton 1.11 Prune/reduce hedging/vegetation at strategic points along Wirral Way to maximise visibility of landmarks, vistas from key viewing points 1.12 Reinstate the missing footbridge to span Melloncroft Drive West 1.13 Establish improved links with Cheshire County Council for the enhancement of the overall route 1.14 Improve signage and interpretation throughout the site including approach routes and satellite car parks etc 1.15 Undertake Wirral Way access point improvements
33 1.16 Undertake car park improvements 1.17 Resurface Gayton car park 1.18 Provide priority parking at Wirral Country Park for disabled visitors and school groups 1.19 Provide low-key lighting from Wirral Country Park car park to the visitors centre 1.20 Reappraise the physical relationship linking Ashton Park and the Wirral Way 1.21 Improve the West Kirby (Grange Road Access/exit point 1.22 Introduce enhancements to the walking experience including sculptural features, interpretation and additional viewing areas at strategic locations 1.23 Consider options for the future use of the Wirral Country Park former camp site 1.24 Incorporate a café facility into the visitors centre 1.25 Improve the provision and quality of furniture throughout Wirral Country Park and the Wirral Way 1.26 Provide new viewing platform at Cubbins Green 2. To make the park healthy, safe and secure 2.1 Improve pedestrian access between Wirral Country Park and the Station Road over-spill car park 2.2 Undertake surface restoration Senior Parks 2008 between Thurstaston and Gayton Development Officer 2.3 Assess Community Safety data and monitor incident levels, types and frequencies 2.4 Establish a procedure of rapid response to incidents of vandalism including graffiti removal 2.5 Improve lighting within the main car park at Wirral Country Park 2.6 Increase staff presence and their visibility within the Wirral Way 3. To ensure the park is well maintained and clean 3.1 Maintain the park to the standard as defined by the Green Flag Award scheme and achieve the Award
34 3.2 Prepare programme for the renovation of the horse ride 3.3 Implement the annual grounds maintenance mowing and park maintenance regimes (as per Appendix i) 3.4 Survey the key trees along the Wirral Way and produce a management plan 3.5 Introduce a seasonal maintenance programme of leaf removal from the restored sections of the Wirral Way 3.6 Repair/replace all missing and damaged timber post and rail fencing throughout 4. To improve the overall sustainability of the site and to place Wirral Country Park at the forefront of good practice in it’s management 4.1 Undertake environmental audit of the park’s management to ensure best practice is applied where possible 4.2 Improve the energy efficiency of the visitor centre; through the use of Carbon neutral alternative energy sources including consideration of the use of solar, wind power and renewable energy sources such as Geo-thermal ground heating systems 4.3 Ensure more efficient resource management through energy saving measures such as improved insulation of the visitor centre building, energy saving lighting, reuse of grey water etc 4.4 Promote and encourage further use of cycling through hire facilities and satellite outposts 4.5 Promote Organic, GM free foods via the café and centre shop 5. To maintain and improve the park’s conservation and heritage value 5.1 Implement the Wirral Country Park Conservation Management Plan for the parks key designations 6. To improve community involvement in the management and maintenance of the park 6.1 Further develop the existing Friends Group 6.2 Increase the executive management
35 of the park between the various groups, authorities and other interested parties 7. To improve the marketing of the park 7.1 Produce the Wirral Tourism strategy highlighting Wirral Country Park as a major attraction 7.2 Promote the site’s historical and geological attractions as well as the wider Dee Estuary 7.3 Update and improve the promotion of circular walks, The Dungeon area and Hall Farm 7.4 Improve the information content and quality of the Wirral Council internet website 7.5 Market the park to specialist groups through Natural History journals, wildlife and bird magazines etc
7) Monitoring and Review
Establish a procedure for the implementation and review of all objectives identified in this plan
36 8) Appendix i) Annual Grounds Maintenance Schedule
Mowing Regimes
Thurstaston area – Regular maintenance of amenity areas • Camp Site 1.5 hr • Field Car Park 2 hr • Grassland areas surrounding ponds (paths) 1 hr • These areas should be cut on a three weekly cycle during the growing season from March to the end of June then on a monthly basis from July to the end of September. • Method of cutting – John Deere 1145
Grassland area surrounding ponds designated SSSI • This area should be cut on a rotational cycle. It should be split into 3 zones with one zone per year being cut. Each area should be cut twice in September, once in mid September and again two weeks later. (Natural England’s recommended cutting practice for SSSI grasslands where it is not possible to remove cut grass). Were it is possible to remove grass one cut will suffice • Method of cutting – Tractor, side-arm or rear mounted flail • One zone per year 4 hrs per cut
Dawpool Grassland Nature Reserve • This area should be cut on a rotational programme to ensure that there are always areas of long grass remaining. The reserve should be split into 4 zones (3 grassland zones and 1 wild flower meadow). Only two zones should be cut per year, cutting should take place in early September and then again two weeks later. • Two zones per year Dawpool N.R 2 full days per cut • Method of cutting - Tractor side arm or rear mounted flail • Paths through Dawpool Nature Reserve should be cut to 2 metres wide on a monthly basis from March to September. • Paths Dawpool N.R 2 hrs per cut • Method of cutting – John Deere 1145
Cubbins Green Caldy • Paths should be cut 2 metres wide on a monthly basis from March to September. • Grassland should be split into 2 zones with one zone being cut per year in mid October. • Paths Cubbins Green 1 hr • One zone per year Cubbins Green - 4 hrs per cut • Method of cutting paths – John Deere 1145 • Method of cutting grassland – Tractor side-arm flail or rear mounted
37 Wirral Way Footpath/Cycle Way – West Kirby to Thurstaston • Verges should be cut 1 metre wide on either side of path where possible on a monthly basis from March to September. Care should be taken to avoid wild flowers and also yellow Meadow Ants nests. Late September all verges should be cut to 2 metres width where possible. • Verges W.W West Kirby to Thurstaston –2 full days • Method of cutting – Tractor side arm flail or rear mounted flail
Wirral Way Horse Ride • Verges should be cut 1 metre wide on either side of the path where possible on a monthly basis from March to September. Care should be taken to avoid wild flowers. Late September verges and banks should be cut to 2 metres where possible • Verges / banks W.W West Kirby to Thurstaston Horse Ride–1 Full day • Method of cutting –Tractor side arm flail or rear mounted flail
Wirral Way Footpath – Thurstaston to Gayton • Verges should be cut 1 metre wide on either side of path where possible on a monthly basis from March to September. Care should be taken to avoid wild flowers and Yellow Meadow Ants. Late September verges should be cut 2 metres where possible. • Verges W.W footpath Thurstaston to Gayton – 2 full days • Method of cutting – Tractor side arm or rear mounted flail
Wirral Way Horse Ride / Cycleway • Verges / banks should be cut 1 metre wide on either side where possible on a monthly basis from March to September. Care should be taken to avoid wild flowers and any badger setts in the Lower Heswall area. Late September all verges / banks should be cut 2 metres wide where possible, avoiding badger setts. • Verges / banks W.W Thurstaston to Gayton – 2 full days • Method of cutting – Tractor side arm or rear mounted flail
38 Proposed Annual Maintenance Regime January 2007
Ditches
Church Rd Bridge to Sandy Lane Bridge 1 kilometre chocked ditch, dig out on 5 year cycle
Sandy Lane Bridge to Melon croft Drive Bridge, West Kirby 1.25 kilometre blocked ditch, dig out on 3 year cycle Oct to Jan Also hawthorn hedge causing a problem here, major work required for access (see hedges)
Melon croft Drive Bridge to Caldy Picnic Site 0.50 kilometre blocked ditch, dig out on 3 year cycle Oct to Jan
Caldy Car Park 0.50 Kilometre blocked ditch, dig out on 2 year cycle Oct to Jan (urgent)
Banks Rd to Davenport Rd Lower Heswall 1.25 kilometre blocked ditch, dig out on 3 year cycle Oct to Jan (urgent)
Silt removed from the ditches could be used to bank up the edges of the Wirral Way, thus minimising the amount of soil to be imported
Edging Boards
West Kirby to Church Rd Bridge Replace 3 x 3 metre damaged sections
Melon Croft Drive Bridge to Caldy Car Park Replace 1 x 7 metre section badly damaged (urgent) 3 x 3 metre damaged sections
Croft Drive Caldy to Links Bridge Caldy Replace 3 x 3 metre damaged sections
Links Bridge Caldy to Caravan Site Rd access Point Replace 4 x 3 metre damaged sections
Caravan Site Rd to Thurstaston Replace 2 x 3 metre damaged sections
Banking up Edging Boards
Church Rd Bridge to Sandy Lane Bridge 2 x kilometre minor banking work needed, status- fair
Sandy Lane Bridge to Melon croft Drive Bridge
39 5 x kilometre medium banking work needed, status- medium to poor
Melon Croft Drive to Caldy Picnic Site 2 x kilometre minor banking work needed, status- fair to medium
Croft Drive to Links Bridge Caldy 5x kilometre medium banking work needed, status- medium to poor
Links Bridge to Caravan Site Rd Access Point 6 x kilometre medium banking work needed, status-medium to poor
Caravan Site Rd to Thurstaston 5 x kilometre med to urgent banking work required, status-urgent
Grass Encroachment onto Wirral Way
Grass has encroached onto the Wirral Way from the sides/banks on almost the entire section between West Kirby and Thurstaston.
Approximately 9 kilometres. It can either be laboriously scraped off and the exposed area then dressed with new surface material. The removed turf then used to help build up the banks to make them flush with the edging boards or it can be chemically treated on an annual basis.
Fencing Work
Church Rd Bridge to Sandy Lane Bridge 2 x 150 metres 4 bar post and rail fencing
Cubbins Green Caldy 1 x 150 metres post & single rail fence
Riverbank Rd to Cottage Lane 2 x 150 metres post & single rail fencing
Cottage lane to the Cheshire County Council boundary 100 Metres post & single rail fencing
Hedging Work
All hedges to be cut on annual basis between October & end of January Approximately 16 weeks work
Verges/Embankments on Wirral Way
All verges/ embankments cut 3 x per year using tractor & side arm flail or ride on mower March, July & September Approximately 3 x 1 week
40 Car Parks & Picnic Sites
Wirral Country Park Overflow Car Park, Caldy Picnic Site, Riverbank Rd Car Park & Picnic Site, Riverbank Rd Picnic Site
All cut 4 times per year minimum using ride on mower March, May, July & September 4 x 2 days
Caldy Cubbins Green
Paths cut 4 times per year 4x 2hrs Grassland cut twice per year March & September 2 x 1 day
Dawpool Grassland Nature Reserve
2 x compartments cut twice per year, using tractor & rear mounted flail (either re-flailed 2 weeks after each cut or cut grass removed from site) 4 x 2 days
Thursaston Area
Paths, BBQ site & visitor centre area All cut minimum 6 times per year during growing season 6 x 1 day
Mounds, Thurstaston
Cut by district 6 x per year, using gang mowers. 1x per month during growing season
41 ii) National Planning Policy
PPS1 Delivering Sustainable Development sets out key principles to contribute to the delivery of sustainable development. These include. Inter allia, high quality, inclusive design and accessibility. It requires planning applications to be determined in accordance with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise.
PPG 2 Green Belts sets out policy in respect of Green Belts, stating there is a presumption against inappropriate development therein which should not be approved except in very special circumstances. The purpose of the Green Belt is essentially to protect the countryside from sprawl and coalescence. Very special circumstances will not exist unless the harm by reason of its inappropriateness, and any other harm, is clearly outweighed by other considerations.
The PPG goes on to state that the visual amenities of the Green Belt should not be injured by proposals for development within or conspicuous from the Green Belt which might be visually detrimental by reason of their siting, material or design.
PPS 7 Sustainable Development in Rural Areas seeks to provide continued protection for the open countryside for the benefit of all, with the highest level of protection for the most valued landscapes and environmental resources. This could include restraint of potentially damaging development unless it can be shown to be in the public interest.
PPG 9 Nature Conservation sets out the Government’s objectives for nature conservation. It states that planning permission should not be refused if development can be subject to conditions that will prevent damage, impacts on wildlife habitats or important physical features, or if other material factors are sufficient to override nature conservation considerations.
PPG 17 Planning for New Open Space & Recreation recognises that areas of open space can play a major part in improving people’s sense of well being in the place they live and thus requires local authorities to seek opportunities to improve the local open space network. In particular it encourages compatibility between the use of open spaces, sport and recreational facilities and adjoining land uses; better accessibility taking account of the mobility needs in the local population; better use by the use of good design to reduce crime.
Regional Spatial Strategy
By 2021 the Draft Revised RSS aims to achieve inter allia, urban, rural and coastal communities sustained as attractive, distinctive and safe places to live and work; safeguarded and enhanced built, natural, coastal, cultural and heritage assets; and active management and prudent use of natural and man- made resources (policies EM1, EM2 and EM5).
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Unitary Development Plan
The Wirral UDP was adopted in February 2002 of which the following policies will apply.
Policy LAN 1 states that development proposals will not be permitted where their visual impact would be inappropriate, in terms of character, appearance and landscape setting of the area, thus protecting Areas of Special Landscape Value.
Policy NCO 1 states the integrity of international, national and locally designated sites of nature conservation within the area and the importance of their protection.
Policy REC 1 states that new recreational facilities outside the urban area will only be permitted where they preserve the openness of the Green Belt.
Policy TLR 1 states that new tourist attractions and visitor facilities be directed to urban areas unless they can preserve the openness of the Green Belt.
Policy COA 1 states that proposals within the coastal zone will require to preserve and enhance the coast’s character, in particular for nature conservation and landscape quality; provide for environmentally sustainable tourism and recreation; and improve the quality of bathing and coastal waters.
Policy GB 2 states that within the Green Belt there is a presumption against inappropriate development. Development will only be approved where it is inter allia, essential facilities for sport and recreation that does not conflict with the openness of and purpose of including the land within the Green Belt. The siting, materials and design of such development shall not harm the visual amenities of the Green Belt.
Policy GR 5 requires applicants to submit full landscaping proposals before planning permission is granted in order to protect and enhance visual amenities.
Policy LA 1 states that development must be in keeping with the local character and context of the area, in order to protect Areas of Special Landscape Value from adverse development. Such development must not be intrusive in an otherwise open setting; result in the loss of landscape features unless suitably mitigated for; or detract from the appearance and views of the area.
Policy LA 2 identifies Areas of Special Landscape Value which include the Dee Coast (incorporating Heswall Dales, Thurstaston Common and Royden Park).
43 Policy NC 1 states that proposals which may affect a European site, a proposed European site or a Ramsar site will be subject to the most rigorous examination.
Policy NC 2 identifies the Dee Estuary as a Wetland of International Importance and a Special Protection Area.
Policy NC 3 states that development will not be permitted where likely to directly or indirectly adversely affect Sites of National Importance for Nature Conservation.
Policy NC 4 identifies the Dee Estuary as a SSSI; any development likely to affect it will be considered against Policy NC3.
Policy NC 5 states that areas of Local Importance for Nature Conservation will be protected where they are of specific interest and nature conservation value to the area.
Policy NC 7 states that development that would affect wildlife species will not be permitted unless conditions to protect those species can be secured through condition/legal agreement.
Policy TL 9 states that proposals which would prejudice the continued attractiveness and special character of rural tourist attractions, such as an Area of Special Landscape Value, coastal habitats and walks, will net be permitted.
Policy TL 10 states that provision for tourist facilities and attractions within the Green Belt must be appropriate in terms of nature and scale; visual impact; impact on neighbouring uses including habitats; highway access, car parking and volumes of visitors. Proposals should be accommodated within an existing building or else preserve the openness of the green belt.
Policy TR 11 states that the construction of small scale visitor facilities for countryside recreation will be permitted within Wirral Country Park and The Wirral Way providing thy preserve the openness of the Green Belt; protect and enhance natural beauty’ landscape character and features of important nature conservation’ whilst avoiding disturbance to neighbouring land uses.
Policy TL 14 seeks to protect the character of rights of way and create new ones where appropriate’ avoiding sensitive locations such as those for nature conservation and historic sites.
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