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Much of Middleton
Woods is Ancient Semi-natural Woodland. It forms a
significant local landscape feature, prominent even
from the city centre. The woods form a large natural
oasis for wildlife, a relic landscape of what was
once a part of the open countryside, but is now cut
off from this and surrounded by roads, housing and
general development. Nevertheless the woods provide
a large enough natural resource to be a haven for
the local wildlife.
In 1992, the woods were designated a Local Nature
Reserve (LNR) in recognition of their great value
to wildlife in this urban location. Throughout the
year, regular maintenance is required to maintain
visitor facilities and wildlife habitats.
In 1998, the site received special recognition as
a Scheduled Ancient Monument. The monument includes
the earthworks and buried remains of colliery workings,
including shaft mounds and waggonways, and lies within
2 separate areas in Middleton Park. The area was mined
for coal from at least the 18th century, a period
for which mining activity in the area is well documented.
Documentary evidence also indicates that the remains
of medieval monastic coal working will be preserved
as buried features beneath later foundations.
A full colour leaflet illustrating some of the diverse
nature of the woodland habitat is available to visitors
and can be acquired from Middleton Park's Lakeside
Education Centre.
Access and facilities : There are many purpose built
facilities to cater for both the casual visitor and
organised groups and school parties, including :
* Permanent orienteering course
* Sign-posted and waymarked bridleway
* Section of the South Leeds Heritage Trail
* Education & Visitors Centre, catering for organised
groups as well as the general public
* interpretative panels and leaflets giving information
about the local history and wildlife
Special provision is made for the on-site Riding
for the Disabled Centre, which utilises the woodland
bridleway system.
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