Country Park progress to continue as Council confirms its commitment to Newland
Tuesday, February 18, 2025
Wakefield Council is reassuring residents the future of Newland Country Park remains secure, despite a recent ruling from the Planning Inspectorate.
“Two years ago, we listened to the concerns of the local community. And stood by them in refusing planning permission for Welbeck Waste Management (WWM).
“While we are disappointed that WWM have won their appeal to keep the Welbeck landfill site operating for a further two years, our plans to create Newland County Park will continue at pace.
“We know the appeal has resulted in a financial implication for the Council, but it had to be done. We’re now turning our full attention to the park’s future. Continuing with the fantastic restoration work.”
Cllr Jack Hemingway
Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Change
Over time the new country park will open up 200 hectares of derelict land for the public to enjoy at the former Welbeck landfill site near Normanton and Kirkthorpe. The site was a quarry until 1998, when it became a landfill site.
Newland Country Park will be built in phases over several years, as new sections are restored and released.
Phase one of the restoration is already well underway and is expected to be delivered in just three years. It will see the creation of circular walking trails, natural woodlands and grasslands, cycling trails and links to existing trails in the local area. As well as bird hides and other places for wildlife watching.
Phases 2 and 3 will happen over the next ten plus years, where there is huge potential for its future.
Cllr Hemingway added: “We will continue to hold WWM to account for their operations, to ensure they fulfil their obligations and for us to transform the parts of the site already under Council control into the first phase of the Country Park.
“In time Welbeck will become an important destination for recreation, a haven for nature, a valuable green space and source of biodiversity.”
Find out more about Newland Country Park at https://www.wakefield.gov.uk/welbeck