Further improvements are planned to the children's play area at the St Ives Estate in Harden.

The first wave of new play equipment was provided this year as part of a long-term improvement programme.

Upgrades also included a new car park and interpretive signboards around the woodland.

The St Ives estate also became the starting point for the Calder Aire scenic bridleway.

The 17-mile track, open to horseriders, cyclists and walkers, joins the Pennine Bridleway National Trail after passing through woodland, moorland and ancient lanes.

The St Ives estate, which has free access to the public, includes extensive woodland, ponds and a golf course.

The 500-acre park was this year awarded prestigious Green Flag status.

Ongoing improvements are being co-ordinated by the Council, Friends of St Ives and businesses that use the estate.

The Friends recently won £250,000 of environmental grant cash for further improvements.

They also sponsored a new woodland, planting native trees at White Coates Barn, and plan to regenerate existing woodland in 2008.

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