UPDATE 3 : 30 September 1998  'PUTTING DOWN ROOTS'

The scheme is being considered by Bradford Council Recreation Division, who are currently responsible for the maintenance of the site, and we anticipate a formal response from them soon. Bradford Countryside Service's response to the proposals was very positive, with offers to work in collaboration with their Outdoor Amenities colleagues by contributing labour, materials, etc, if the project is approved. The local officer's opinion is that vandalism would not be a serious problem with the type of features proposed. Their experience with bracken clearance could prove useful, as also their abilities in laying setts (as shown at White Wells) which are proposed for the maze feature.

We have compiled a list of suitable darwinii species to use in a theme garden related to Darwin's stay at the adjacent North View (now 'Hillside'); plus a selection of tree species that could graphically represent evolutionary development, and that would be suitable for planting along one of the ghylls. We are now approaching the principals of local colleges (eg Shipley, Craven, Askham Bryan) to establish the feasibility of involving their students on horticultural courses to contribute grounds maintenance at Darwin Gardens as part of their work experience.

We have obtained (on 'permanent loan') a purpose-built display unit for project publicity, and have agreement to mount a public exhibition of the proposals at a local supermarket. The display unit at the library would also be available for publicity at a suitable stage, (ie after we have received a definite idea of Bradford Council's view of the proposals.) We have used 3D Landscape Design software to generate a walk-through and fly-around simulation of parts of the completed scheme, which could be a very useful tool for project design and publicity.

Design ideas for a 'Rock of Ages' feature, produced by this simulator, are now available. The complete piece aims to be both educational, in its illustration of biological evolution, and inspirational in highlighting respect and reverence for all living things. We also have a complete Millennium Maze design, (based on the fylfot as seen on the 'Swastika Stone') which combines aesthetic appeal, an enjoyable recreational challenge, and the possibility of incorporating details relating the piece to a spiritual, evoutionary theme.

We are seeking offers of help in any of the following ways: