Durham City Vision
Eric on board for Necklace Park vision
11th March, 2009
Durham City’s celebrated Necklace Park project is set to come on in leaps and bounds thanks to the appointment of a new team member.
Eric Wilton has joined Necklace Park Manager Ann Deary as her assistant and will help deliver numerous projects currently being considered for the 12-mile stretch of the River Wear between Sunderland Bridge and Finchale Abbey.
Eric was selected from a long list of excellent candidates owing to his extensive experience of land management and community based projects. He is so enthusiastic about the post that he is moving to Durham especially, having spent several years working for Lee Valley Regional Park, a similar scheme to Necklace Park in South East England.
Eric, a chef prior to his role as a Countryside Ranger said: “I’m thrilled to finally be in Durham. I had heard about the Necklace Park when it first launched and have watched its progress from afar so to actually be here is wonderful. So far I’ve only had brief opportunities to go out and get my boots dirty but can’t wait to explore the whole 12 mile stretch.
“My first impression is that the river is very special to the people of the city and I’m looking forward to talking to local groups and other stakeholders about how they use it. It’s a hugely valuable natural asset as well, I’ve already spotted a kingfisher and I’m told that otters have been seen in the city centre, which is remarkable. This wealth of wildlife will certainly add to most visitors’ enjoyment of the city.”
The Durham Necklace Park Team, part of Durham City Vision, aims to improve the green infrastructure in and around the City of Durham, working with partners to coordinate an overall plan for the river corridor and raise awareness of the Riverside’s value for the local area in economic terms, through inward investment and bringing tourists to Durham. But the team will also highlight the value of the natural and cultural heritage of this beautiful area; appreciating that the special nature of the river needs to be preserved and understood.
Subject to Heritage Lottery funding, The Necklace Park team will also be instrumental in helping deliver the ambitious Riverbanks Gardens project that has attracted so much interest and support from people in Durham.
The concept of the Necklace Park was part of the Durham City Vision Masterplan and it has already recorded several milestones, including the successful Mapping the Necklace project and, in partnership with Durham County Council, the construction of the Kingfisher Bridge across a tributary of the River Wear, upstream of the City centre.
Harvey Dowdy, Director at Durham City Vision, said: “Eric was the perfect candidate having worked on a similar project near London for several years. He brings plenty of experience and knowledge to Durham and, with Ann, can really carry this vital project forward.”
