Pegswood Moor

Local authority: Northumberland County Council

Postcode of nearby property: NE61 3LF

Site status: Phases 1 and 3 are restored and the aftercare period has been completed. Phase 2 finishes aftercare in 2021.

Background

The Pegswood Moor Country Park was developed by Banks Mining as part of the development of the Pegswood Moor Farm surface mine which operated between 1997 and 2004.  The park was created in three phases and was opened in 2004.  The three phases offer rich and varied habitats and community access options from ancient woodland to prime grazing land and a community park.

Restoration and Aftercare

Restoration and aftercare of Phases 1 and 3 are now complete. Phase 2 remains in aftercare until 2021.

The park provides paths and walkways for the community to use around a lake which is home for aquatic birds such as ducks, gulls, geese and moorhens.  Phase 3 was opened by Ian Lavery, MP for Wansbeck in 2016.

Banks Mining put in place a long term management plan and substantial endowment fund for Pegswood to ensure that it is protected in perpetuity as a community park and can be maintained to a high standard for the local community to enjoy forever.

That same year, Groundwork North East & Cumbria came on board to manage and maintain the park and deliver environmental, education and conservation volunteer opportunities. They ensure Pegswood is welcoming to all people accessing the park for a variety of community interests.

Since 2016, Banks Mining has invested over £60,000 of additional community grants from the Banks Group Community Fund for Groundwork North East and Cumbria to further develop the site into the thriving community resource that it is today.