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Nov 2020

Last Updated: 20/11/2020

Environment

'Leaving a legacy': why people bought shares in Long Lands Common

by Suzannah Rogerson

| 20 Nov, 2020

Long Lands Common Ltd announced today it had the funds to buy the 30 acres of land intended to be used as a community woodland. Some of its shareholders have been speaking to the Stray Ferret about why they were determined to get involved.

"Leaving a legacy" and ensuring "safe areas for wildlife" were some of the driving forces that have encouraged people to buy shares in the district's first community woodland.

Today, the Long Lands Common Ltd announced thousands of local people's dreams had become a reality as it raised the funds to buy 30 acres of land in Harrogate and Knaresborough.

The project's aim was provide an area for the whole community to enjoy and create a wildlife haven.

But for many shareholders it gave them the opportunity to pass something on to future generations and ensure there was always some green space for them to enjoy.

"The shares are for them"

Dave Hamilton, Harrogate, said:

"I have four grandchildren and I wanted them to grow up with the hope of green space. I wanted to improve their awareness of the natural world around them. The shares are for them."

Tracey Davison-Franks, Harrogate, said:

"I wanted to know what legacy I could give to my grandson and this felt just right. The value of the great outdoors is something we have lost a little with technology but we can make memories with him here. We wanted something we could pass down. This was our opportunity to do something meaningful and benefit those future generations."

For others it was their determination to protect natural habitats that encouraged them to buy shares.

"I think it's worth saving"

Ben Thompson, Harrogate, said:

"For me it was my love of nature and natural history and the need to preserve the natural world. Things like this will help make the proposed road difficult, we are preserving what we've got for future generations. I think it's worth saving."

Gillie McAvoy, Harrogate, said:

"We are huge wildlife lovers in our house, we have lived along the Nidd Gorge for 30 years. It was really important for us to provide those safe areas wildlife especially with all the development going on."

Planning decision for a proposed development in the Pinewoods has been delayed.

Green groups in Harrogate have united to increase the pressure on the borough council to tackle climate change.

After four months of community share sales the target has been reached. Thanks to a huge response from people in the district and beyond the local community has a space to call their own.

"Given the community a reason to smile"

Faye Harris-Frost, Harrogate, said:

"Having so much natural beauty on our doorstep is something that we are extremely thankful for. The idea that some of these areas may not still be around when our children are fully grown is incredibly sad and so we were keen to sign up.

At a time when many people feel disillusioned and let down by the powers that be, the scheme has not only given the community a reason to smile and hope for the future but has shown what we can all achieve when we work together to drive change."

Thank you for your interest in this story

'Leaving a legacy': why people bought shares in Long Lands Common

"The shares are for them"

"I think it's worth saving"

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"Given the community a reason to smile"