Stephenson Steam Railway secures NLHF funding for eco-friendly Woodland Walk

Stephenson Steam Railway has secured funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) to develop a new two-acre eco-friendly Woodland Walk in North Shields.

NLHF is supporting the Woodland Walk project with a grant totalling £81,426. The project is set to engage local communities, including schools and volunteers from the North Tyneside Steam Railway Association (NTSRA), and offer a wider scope of activities and events for Museum visitors to enjoy.

The project idea came from Rob Clark and Jean Liddy, volunteers of the NTSRA, and the two have led on its development. 

Rob Clark said:

"About 18 months ago Jean and I recognised the opportunity to develop a large unused area at the Museum. We are very pleased that the National Lottery Heritage Fund funding for this project has been awarded and look forward to opening up a fascinating ecological area to the public as part of the Stephenson Steam Railway experience."

The re-development will include outdoor artefacts and art installations, as well as providing the museum with the opportunity to host more outdoor events. Plans for the site include environmental interpretation, a heritage object trail and a covered outdoor learning space for schools and groups. 

At its heart, the re-development will make significant improvements to the landscape and vegetation, by transforming what is currently waste land into an engaging visitor space. When finished, the site will attract wildlife and improve the site’s natural ecosystem, creating a nature conservation area that can be enjoyed by all.

The Museum’s dedicated volunteer team have already begun to clear the site for the Woodland Walk area. The project has involved working with North Tyneside Council ecology officers and ERIC North East (Environmental Records Information Centre).

Geoff Woodward, Museum Manager at Stephenson Steam Railway, said: 

"We are thrilled to receive the grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund – the funding will really improve the site and enhance the natural environment. It will be a fantastic space for outdoor events and a range of activities, and as well as telling the story of our regional railway heritage, we can also provide information about the biodiversity of the area and environmental topics."

For full details of opening times, events, and facilities available, please visit the Stephenson Steam Railway website.

Please contact: Sallie.Ball@twmuseums.org.uk