Wigan Borough Environment & Heritage Network
10.30 a.m. June 1 2015 at Museum of Wigan Life
Present:
Mary Pennington (Wigan Archaeology Society),Tom Price (Civic Trust), Joe Taylor
(Billinge History Society), Geoff Jones (Astley Green Colliery Museum), Glenys
McClellan (Leigh Family History Society), Richard Sivill (Atherton Heritage),
Peter Goodwin (Tradition Films), Ken Barston (Stubshaw Cross Residents Group),
Avis Freeman (Leigh Soroptimists), John O’Neil (Greenheart), David Shallcross
(Leigh Ornithological Society), Alex Miller (Wigan MBC) Cheryl Knott (LWT).
Apologies:
Peter Taylor (Civic Trust), Derek Wilde (Wigan Family History Society), Marge
Harrop (Leigh Family History Society), Neil Forshaw (George Formby Society),
Jan Johnston (LENDF), Mandy Wellans-Bray (Orrell-Billinge Transition Town Group),
Allan Roberts (RSPCB),
Minutes of the last meeting: True and accurate.
Matters Arising:
John O’Neil mentioned that Greenheart met with Trust In Leigh and are
now working together. It is hoped that more integrated planning between departments
will occur. The importance of pathways regarding heath issues was highlighted.
Presentation - Alex Miller:
Alex reported on progress regarding an enhanced archives facility for the Borough.
An initial proposal has been accepted in principle, awaiting a public consultation
process. After this consultation process, it is envisioned that a three-year
Heritage Lottery bid will be have to be developed.
Presentation - Cheryl Knott:
Cheryl described a major habitat restoration project, the Carbon Landscape, being developed by the Lancashire Wildlife Trust across a wide area historically affected by carbon based fuel extraction that will require many derelict landscapes to be restored. WLT is developing a £2.2 million HLF bid and has received 10% to date to.
Already 22 organisations have become project partners.
An intended outcome is the reconnect people to their landscape, physically and mentally. Volunteers will be at the heart of all activities. Another expected outcome is that the project will help the area become a tourist destination.
Date next meeting: 13th July 2015