Work has started on the transformation of the former South Leeds Golf Course

Much of the former golf course will be developed as a country park with new woodland planting and pathways.

There will also be a ‘Peoples Woodland’, delivered in partnership with Leeds Hospitals Charity, creating a space for reflection and peace in memorial of loved ones who lost their lives during the pandemic and to pay tribute to our hard-working frontline key workers.

Development of the site adds around five kilometres of new walking trails adjacent to the already popular park. A variety of new habitats are planned including over 20,000 trees, wildflower meadows and wetland habitat, plus rewilding practices such as reduced mowing will form part of the management plan.

The woodland creation supports the council’s pledge to combat the climate emergency by planting 5.8 million trees over the next 25 years. The local population will also benefit from the economic, biodiversity and health benefits of good quality green space.

People will be given the opportunity to donate to the project or sponsor a tree in memory of a loved one or to thank our dedicated frontline key workers for their efforts. More information on this can be found here.

People can also sign up to volunteer to plant trees on the site or elsewhere in the city. Email your interest to woodlandcreation@leeds.gov.uk

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for public health and active lifestyles said:

“We hope that by creating this beautiful woodland it will provide people with a space to reflect, unwind and take in the peaceful surroundings; while also enjoying the recreational opportunities the parkland offers.

 “It will also help us deliver our commitment to ensuring all our communities have access to quality parks and green space and will positively contribute towards our ambition of being carbon neutral by 2030.”

Esther Wakeman, Chief Executive at Leeds Hospitals Charity, said:

“We’re delighted to be working in partnership with Leeds City Council on this wonderful project. We hope that ‘The People’s Woodland’ will create a space where people from communities across Leeds can come together and support their local NHS hospitals. Whether it’s to pay their respects to loved ones who sadly died during the pandemic, show their appreciation for our NHS heroes who have worked tirelessly during this time, or another special reason. We appreciate the value of having an outdoor space that everyone can enjoy and hope it brings peace during these challenging times.”