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Transforming Dalby Forest
Introduction
Yorkshire Forward has partnered with several other agencies to fund a £4.3m transformation of Dalby Forest.
- Visitors have increased by 33%
- 20 jobs have been created and 20 jobs accommodated
- 70 volunteers work on the project each year
- Private-sector partnerships have been stimulated
Summary
Following the outbreak of foot and mouth disease in 2001, visitor numbers to Dalby Forest had stabilised at around 300,000 a year. Without major investment, there was a risk of severely diminishing visitor levels.
However, thanks to a a £4.3m transformation part-funded by Yorkshire Forward, Dalby Forest is now a regional centre of excellence for sustainable economic activity and a valuable asset to the region, drawing tourists from far and wide.
Dalby Courtyard
£1.1m has been spent on refurbishing several buildings at Low Dalby and in creating 6 craft workshops and 5 offices for rent. The project has stimulated a mountain-bike hire shop and café, a computer firm, various crafts and arts businesses, and a new restaurant—ensuring the long-term, sustainable use of the forest with partner organisations.
Visitor Centre
The new award-winning £2.6m visitor centre incorporates many sustainable features, including a wind turbine, solar panels, rainwater harvesting system, and a wood-fuel boiler.
Cycle Trails
£405k has been spent on creating 55 kms of new cycle trails to replace worn-out and unsustainable trails, promoting Dalby as a centre of excellence for mountain biking in England.
Find out more at www.forestry.gov.uk/dalbyforest
