Local councillors in Besses have launched a community campaign to secure official nature reserve status for Boz Park in Whitefield, aiming to preserve the green space for future generations and boost investment in biodiversity.
Councillors Lucy Smith, Noel Bayley and Miriam Rahimov, all Labour representatives for Besses, are asking residents to support a petition that would give Boz Park protected status as a nature reserve.
The call comes after several years of improvement work and more than £90,000 in funding delivered by the councillors and Hillock and Oakgate Community Association. The investment has transformed the park with new footpaths, benches and the planting of thousands of trees.
Cllr Noel Bayley said a recent biodiversity survey confirmed that Boz Park is fast becoming a haven for local wildlife. “This is about safeguarding a vital part of our community. Boz Park is more than just a park — it’s a sanctuary for local wildlife,” he said.
If granted nature reserve status, the park would benefit from:
- New funding and interest from environmental charities
- Greater protection from development or degradation
- Opportunities for schools and community groups to use the site for learning
- Environmental enhancements such as flood defences and a proposed orchard
Councillor Miriam Rahimov, speaking at a recent tree planting event in the park, said: “We’ve seen amazing community involvement over the last few years. Securing nature reserve status will help protect this progress and open doors for more activities, especially for young people.”
Boz Park is located off Tonge Close in Whitefield and has become a focal point for local school visits, volunteer clean-ups and nature walks.
Residents who wish to support the campaign can sign the online petition at: https://forms.office.com/e/sKSaU3dWLy
Restore Britain names Marlon West as candidate for Greater Manchester mayoral by election
Rochdale MP backs Andy Burnham for Labour leadership after Keir Starmer resignation
Andy Burnham enters Labour leadership contest following Keir Starmer resignation
Parklife’s new Panorama Stage is winning over festival goers at Heaton Park
How many of Parklife’s biggest Sunday artists do you know
St Joseph’s RC Primary School in Heywood opens new library after community fundraising effort
In Photos as Parklife opens with packed crowds, surprise appearances and sunshine at Heaton Park
Aitch sparks huge reaction with surprise Parklife appearance with fellow artist Bou
Skepta draws huge crowd with standout Parklife performance
Coachella inspired fashion takes centre stage at Parklife
Sammy Virji keeps Parklife moving as thousands pack The Valley stage
Geraldine Coggins announced as Green Party candidate for Mayor
Comments
Add a comment