[W]ork has begun to improve one of South Lakeland’s most treasured public parks.
Trees are being thinned and removed as part of a wider community-led project to improve drainage and pathways at Nobles Rest in Kendal which is described as a “hidden gem.”
John Wright, chairman of the Friends of Nobles Rest, said: “The tree management marks the start of work which will improve a place that many people love.
“I am confident that we have consulted with as many local people as possible and have taken their views into consideration. I also feel confident that we have consulted with a wide range of experts, naturalists and other bodies to get the best, integrated solution we can to some long standing issues.”
The Forestry Commission has approved the felling of 18 trees as part of work which will help the natural regeneration of the woodland.
Graham Nicholson, South Lakeland District Council’s (SLDC’s) arboriculturalist, said: “This is well planned and sensitive tree management which will allow more light to reach the woodland floor, giving younger and middle aged trees more chance.”
Although Nobles Rest will remain open during the tree felling, the park will have to be closed for a short period of time in the New Year when work on the new drainage and pathways begins.
Tony Wrathall, from Kendal Civic Society, said: “It is a treasured park which is often very boggy in places. We look forward to seeing it properly drained, with new paths, so you can walk around without wellies. In spring and summer Nobles Rest is delightful, as it hopefully will be next winter.”
SLDC has awarded £20,000 from its Locally Important Projects (LIPs) fund and is contributing £40,000 towards the drainage.
Kendal Town Council is paying £15,000 for a new path at Town View Field and £2,000 has been donated through the Tesco Bags of Help project.
Nobles Rest, which is located at the end of Maude Street, was donated by Mary Ellen Noble in 1929 as a sanctuary of rest for the aged and a play area for small children to enjoy.
It was created to commemorate her husband, local surgeon Samuel Clarke Noble.
