A SCHEME which promises to safeguard the future of a historic wood and “help bring more people closer to nature” has been given the go-ahead.

Bradford Council has approved plans for a ‘low-density’ campsite at Branshaw Plantation, in Slaymaker Lane, Oakworth.

Realisation of the Woodsworth Exploring project is a dream come true for site owners Duncan and Emma Davids, who say the initiative will benefit both the woodland and the community.

They added: “Following years of saving, planning and dreaming, we are excited to announce the launch of our new venture providing experiences that bring more people closer to nature in Oakworth.

“Branshaw Plantation is a very special place and bringing it to a new level of health will help us to safeguard the site for future generations.”

Experiences on offer will include low-impact wild camping, yoga and educational workshops.

The Davids say the scheme will provide many pluses for the community, such as improving participants’ physical and mental health, fostering a greater appreciation of nature and strengthening community involvement.

They say it will also attract visitors to the area – giving a boost to businesses – and provide sustainable funding to “reverse the current deterioration of the woodland” and improve the health and diversity of the flora and fauna.

First customers will be welcomed in the summer.

The plans were supported by Worth Valley district councillor Chris Herd, who said: “This is a fantastic opportunity that will boost the local economy, give great benefits to the people of Oakworth and improve the woodland’s health for the long term.”

Town councillor Luke Maunsell also backs the project.

He said: “I am overjoyed that Woodsworth Exploring has been granted planning permission. Its focus is on creating a sustainable environment rich in improved, diverse ecology. I am very hopeful the plans will provide nothing but benefits for local people, schools and the area at large. Fellow councillor Mark Curtis and I are proud to sit on the advisory group and look forward to supporting this project as it develops.”

To contact Woodsworth Exploring, email woodsworthexploring@outlook.com, or follow it via facebook.com/woodsworthexploring or Twitter.