Whitley Nature Area/Walk

Whitley nature area is a local place of interest for people to visit within the village. It is of special interest at the moment with all the wildlife animals about and is worth a trip out with the kids whilst on school holidays. Take a camera and snap some shots of local wildlife in our area (Rabbits, Hedgehogs, Badgers, Deer) and many beautiful birds.

The nature area located on the western margins of Whitley Parish, had become an area for illegal fly-tipping and motorbike riding. Groundwork Selby, has supported Whitley Parish Council to secure the site and manage it for wildlife, following successful applications to the North Yorkshire Aggregates Fund for £9,000, Waste Recycling Environmental Ltd. (WREN) for £3,000 landfill tax funding and support from Selby District Leader +.

A new heavy duty boundary fence and gate has been installed to prevent illegal access, whilst still permitting walkers and naturalists to roam the open space. Further work to control bracken growth and to interpret the natural history of the site will follow.

To ensure the protection of the site in the longer term, a management plan will be prepared and the site will be maintained by the Parish Council. Access to the site can be gained via Gravel Hill Lane or Silver Street, the nature area is near the mushroom factory and has a large sign identifying its location to visitors.