THE man behind Ilkley's Darwin Gardens millennium project is delighted with the public support he has received.

Dr Peter Harnett has revealed to the Gazette that 75 per cent of those who have answered a questionnaire about the scheme have given it the thumbs up.

Preliminary proposals for the scheme, including simulated bird's-eye views of the maze design have been on public display in the entrance hall of Booths Supermarket for the past month.

Dr Harnett said: "Obviously I am very encouraged by the public response to the proposals. They will now go on display at the Ilkley public library for three weeks, starting on Monday (January 25)."

Dr Harnett said he had met with Bradford Council officials to discuss practical aspects the scheme, such as clearing pathways and examining ways of encouraging wildlife to the project.

He is delighted with the progress made so far as he seeks to transform West View Park into a garden which future generations can enjoy.

The project received a boost shortly before Christmas with a pledge of funding from Crest Homes.

Dr Harnett hopes to complete the millennium maze area in time for a formal opening during Millennium Year - 2000 AD. The maze itself will include a planting scheme sensitively devised to blend in with the natural surroundings of the site. He is hoping to meet with Bradford Council representatives to discuss terms for an eventual long-term lease of the site to a Trust.

"Although the Darwin Gardens is being designed to be a low maintenance scheme, it will need looking after in years to come. With that in mind, I am hoping we can form a Friends of Darwin Gardens group."

He said: "By helping to create an inspirational, educational and recreational feature, of enduring value to both residents and visitors of all ages, we can all show our respect for Ilkley's past history and our determination to act positively for the future of our town and its surroundings."

Dr Harnett is keen to hear from anyone who feels they can offer assistance to the scheme, through technical advice, sponsorship or labour.

He can be contacted at The Cottage, Crossbeck Close, Ilkley, West Yorkshire LS29 9JW or by telephone on 01943 601743.

The email address to contact is compos@richmond.premier.co.uk.

l The Darwin Gardens scheme will be one of the subjects for discussion at Ilkley Parish Council's open consultation meeting at the Clarke Foley Centre (Jack Lofthouse annex) on February 17, 7.30pm.

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