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Whiteleaf Cross

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Whiteleaf Hill restoration project


http://www.buckscc.gov.uk/news/200105/Whiteleaf_Hill.pdf

HERITAGE LOTTERY BID FOR WHITELEAF HILL NATURE RESERVE
RESTORATION PROJECT

Buckinghamshire County Council has recently submitted a Heritage Lottery Bid application to support its restoration project of the Whiteleaf Hill Nature Reserve, a site of unique national importance.

The total of the cost of the three year project is estimated to run into six figures. Onyx Environmental Trust have already pledged £75,000 for the restoration of the Whiteleaf Cross with major financial support coming from Buckinghamshire County Council and the Landfill Tax. However, the Heritage Lottery Bid is crucial to the success of the project in providing funding for a number of important historical projects on the site. The outcome of the Lottery bid is expected in the autumn.

The Project is based on a strong local partnership between the owners and managers of the site, Buckinghamshire County Council, and the Risborough Countryside Group, Princes Risborough Town Council, and other interested parties and statutory agencies. The Project also has the support of English Nature, The Countryside Agency and the Chilterns AONB as well as Lord Carrington, Sir William McAlpine, Sir Nigel Mobbs and Sir Timothy Raison.


HERITAGE LOTTERY BID FOR WHITELEAF HILL NATURE RESERVE
RESTORATION PROJECT: 2

The main objects of the project are to conserve Whiteleaf Cross as a stable and prominent hill figure, improve public access and recreational facilities, including the Ridgeway National Trail and site carpark/picnic area and to foster a sense of local identity at Whiteleaf and its association with local settlements and the market town Princes Risborough. The project also aims to develop educational opportunities and a greater awareness of the site among younger people.

On a historical basis, the project plans to survey, map and interpret archaeological/ historical features above or below ground, carry out limited research excavations of the Neolithic Barrow and WW1 trenches and interpret the site and its key features through leaflets, panels and a locally produced book. Improving the chalk grassland habitats and carrying out species conservation works will also plan an important part of the project. Mike Woods, Countryside Manager, said: "This Local Nature Reserve is an important site which offers a unique natural environment and historic past. It is essential that we preserve this important site for future generations to enjoy. Our Heritage Lottery bid is a key element in securing its future."

HERITAGE LOTTERY BID FOR WHITELEAF HILL NATURE RESERVE
RESTORATION PROJECT: 3

Community interest and support for the project is reflected by the Risborough Countryside Group who enjoy a membership of over 200 local people and provide the link with other local organisations, groups, clubs and schools.

Design and technical advice for the project has kindly been donated by Sir Robert McAlpine Ltd.
Posted by RiotGibbon
31st August 2001ce

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