The trail was officially opened by Councillor Edward Holmes on Thursday 26^th June 2003


A view towards Codnor Park taken from the trail.		A path cut through the trees.

Clearing the ground in readiness.		Councillor Edward Holmes visits the site whilst work is in progress.

Groundwork for the paths in place.
		Ashfield District Council in partnership with Groundwork Ashfield and Mansfield and BADJER worked together to provide a new circular trail around the Nature Reserve and Recreation Ground in Jacksdale. Following a ‘Planning for Real’ day held in 2001 where over 250 people attended, a feasibility study was prepared by Groundwork Ashfield and Mansfield, with contributions made by BADJER, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, Nottinghamshire County Council and Selston Parish Council. This project was highlighted within the feasibility study due to the lack of links and circular routes within the Jacksdale area.
The trail improvements are now completed and include a path for walkers, cyclists and disabled people, seats, anti-motorcycle barriers and new fencing. The scheme has been funded by East Midlands Development Agency, Local Housing Developers and Ashfield District Council. Ashfield District Council are currently in the process of securing funding from English Nature to officially declare the site as a Local Nature Reserve due to the wildlife and geological features that are of importance locally. A Local Nature Reserve is for both people and wildlife and give people special opportunities to study and learn about them or simply enjoy having contact with nature.
		The new trail has enabled the Council to pursue this declaration due to the improved access onto the site which is a specific requirement of a Local Nature Reserve. Andrew Smith, Planning Policy and Projects Manager at Ashfield District Council commented: “This projects highlights the success of working in partnership with local community groups and other organisations to accomplish a common goal. This scheme is part of a programme of ongoing improvement projects to deliver the communities environmental priorities as set out in the recent feasibility study.”
Edward Holmes the Chairman of the Council and member of BADJER commented: “The new paths meet all the communities expectations, it is already well used by both locals and visitors alike including the less-able thanks to the installation of a number of seats.” The trail was officially opened by Councillor Edward Holmes on Thursday 26^th June 2003.