THE LEADER of Harlow Labour has pressed the Tory-run council over the future of Parndon Wood.

The questions were asked at a council meeting on Thursday night.

Councillor James Griggs to Councillor Nicky Purse (Portfolio Holder for
Environment and Sustainability):

Over a year ago ECCO announced that its tenure at Parndon Wood Nature
Reserve would come to an end on 12th May 2024.

In a statement issued on 1st March last year the Portfolio holder for
environment said:

“We are working to secure a new community partner to operate the service
and that work will be stepped up in the coming weeks”

Why, over a year later, is the process of finding a new partner moving at such
a glacial pace?

Reply from Councillor Nicky Purse (Portfolio Holder for Environment
and Sustainability):

I fully appreciate your concerns regarding the pace of progress in securing a
new community partner for Parndon Wood Nature Reserve. While this
process has taken longer than initially anticipated, it is important that we get it
right to ensure the site’s long-term sustainability and value to the community.

Work to secure a new partner has been ongoing behind the scenes, and I’m
pleased to say there is now light at the end of the tunnel. We have received
six expressions of interest so far, and all interested parties have been given
the opportunity to visit the site in preparation. Tender packs are due to be
issued within the next two weeks, with applicants given three to four weeks to
return their submissions. Once received, the tenders will be evaluated, with a
view to appointing a successful applicant in time to benefit from the important
summer season.

This is not simply a matter of handing over the keys — we are looking for a
partner who can not only manage the site but also deliver environmental
education, community engagement, and stewardship of this valued natural
asset. That level of responsibility requires a careful, thorough approach.
In the meantime, I’d like to reassure residents that Parndon Wood has
remained open during its normal hours, with the site being staffed by Council
personnel to ensure continued public access and safety.

We remain committed to delivering a strong future for the Reserve and
appreciate the community’s continued patience as we complete the final
stages of this process.