Conservation and planning case work

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At this site near Market Weighton, an application was made to fell diseased ash trees within the woodland compartments as a result of the rapid progression of ash dieback. YGT underlined the significance of the woodlands in the historic design of this landscape. which is of exceptional historic interest (Grade II*), and made suggestions to incorporate some oak (Quercus petraea) and sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa) in the 20% mixed broadleaves to be planted in certain areas for landscape value, and also Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), which is a good landscape design species.

For this site near Wakefield, a felling licence application was made for Bella Vista Plantation, which has an interesting history. The stepped gothick folly, called Bella Vista, stood in the eastern portion of the Plantation, on high ground (c.150m above sea level) above the mansion and was probably constructed c. 1770. The significance of Bella Vista is indicated by one of the bedrooms in the mansion being called the Bella Vista room. The building was used by the military during the Second World War and then fell into disrepair and was demolished soon after. The most sensitive locations are the edges of the plantation facing down the park towards the mansion and alongside. YGT advised including some scots pine here along with new beech trees to strengthen existing mature beech and strongly supported the protection and retention of the mature beech and oaks.

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During 2020 and 2021 YGT was invited to respond to consultations on the draft and final versions of the Harewood Estate Study. The Study focuses primarily on the Registered Park and Garden which lies between Leeds and Harrogate. The scope includes several outlying areas of biodiversity interest, such as the Nunneries, but excludes land controlled by the Harewood Trust, such as the house, stables and walled garden.

YGT welcomes the Feasibility Study and its comprehensive, wide ranging, and detailed research and analysis.  The Study balances the challenges necessary to support all important aspects of the Harewood Estate that fall within the review’s scope and, from YGT’s particular interest, the significance of the international importance of its historic designed landscape. In addition it covers the very important approaches to the future of the landscape in terms of biodiversity, natural resource protection, enhancements needed to address climate change and continuing to make it publicly accessible; all of which need a careful strategy and the management of potential conflicts.