THE first of a staggering total of 35,000 trees will soon be planted to mark the start of a major project which will help transform an old industrial valley into a green haven.

Already preparatory work has begun as part of the ambitious project centred around North West Water's former Clifton wastewater site just over the Kearsley boundary

Under the company's plans, some nine hectares of woodland are to be planted, a network of footpaths laid out, picnic spots and play areas created, and even a horse riding arena set up.

The total cost of the project, which has also received Forest Commission funding and Community Woodland supplement, is in the region of £60,000.

North West Water's principal woodland officer, Dave Blount, said: "This is one of the biggest schemes of its kind that we have tackled, and it is an exciting prospect for the future.

"The 35,000 trees, mainly broad-leaved species, which are to be planted on the former sewage works site will completely transform the area.

Pleasant

"With the addition of footpaths, horse riding facilities as well as play areas and picnic spots, all set alongside a river environment, it will make a pleasant place for families, friends and individuals to spend their time. There will be the opportunity for many different kinds of recreation and leisure activities."

The scheme forms part of the ongoing work to create a green corridor through the Irwell Valley which will eventually stretch from the middle of Bolton to the centre of Salford.

Dave added: "As far as North West Water is concerned this is just the first phase of our own plans for the area.

"Across the river at our Prestwich wastewater site, which is also surplus to our requirements, we are planning a similar sized scheme which again will have a significant impact on the Irwell Valley area.

"The project has received massive support, and now that we have got final approval and the right weather conditions for planting we can get on with it."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.