Devon Wildlife Trust set to manage Exeter's Valley Parks

The conservation charity Devon Wildlife Trust (DWT) is to take over the long term management of Exeter’s Valley Parks.

The transfer of management was agreed last night at a meeting of the Trust’s Board.

Although Exeter City Council will continue to own the Valley Parks, day-to-day management will be carried out by Devon Wildlife Trust. The date for the transfer is yet to be finalised but is expected to occur in 2017.

The transfer applies to large parts of Riverside, Ludwell, Mincinglake, Duryard, Belvidere, Barley Valley and Whitycombe Way.

Devon Wildlife Trust’s Chief Executive, Harry Barton said: “We are delighted to be taking over the management of wonderful green spaces in Exeter from the City Council, who have done a great job over the years.

“As a charity, Devon Wildlife Trust has more than 50 years of experience managing some of the County’s most precious and beautiful greenspaces. We’re very excited to have this opportunity to make the parks even better places for people and wildlife. We want Exeter to be the green capital of the region in every sense.”

Cllr Rob Hannaford, Lead Councillor for Place, said: “We know how much the people of Exeter value their green spaces and that’s why we’re delighted that Devon Wildlife Trust have come on board.

“I have no doubt that the DWT will not only look after these sites but enhance them, providing great opportunities for the people of Exeter to get out and enjoy these beautiful green lungs within our great city.”

Devon Wildlife Trust has started talking to community groups and users about the future management of the Valley Parks and is keen to have an ongoing dialogue with all of them. The Trust is now in the early stages of planning a series of public events aimed at beginning this process during 2017. More details will follow at www.devonwildlifetrust.org