Plans to transform former colliery site are on track for autumn completion
PLANS to transform the former Snibston Colliery site are on track for completion in late autumn.
The £3m regeneration scheme is to be carried out by Leicestershire County Council which says will see the site turned into a vibrant place to live and visit.
So far, construction company Fortem is in the process of building a new environmentally-friendly café, which, when finished, will aim to become a plastic-free zero waste hub.
Meanwhile, work has started on the mountain bike trails, cycle route and equipment has been installed in the children’s play area. The country park is currently open while work is ongoing.
County council leader Nick Rushton said: “Work has been carried out safely and within government guidance during this coronavirus pandemic and I’m delighted with the progress that has been made so far.
“Not only will this redevelopment make the park more attractive for families, dog walkers and cyclists to explore, but it will also reconnect the site with the town and in the future provide much needed housing to the area.
“We want Snibston Country Park to be an asset for the community, which stays true to the site’s mining heritage roots.”
Once finished, the site will also feature solar panels and electric vehicle charging points.
Nick Rushton added: “We are a green council and tackling climate change is one of our top priorities.
“We take our commitments to reduce carbon very seriously and this redevelopment will help towards our goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2030.”
The authority is also planning to include a new heritage trail, improved country park, open space and picnic site.
Visitors will enjoy cycle routes, mountain bike trails and a new interpretation of the historic colliery site.
Mick Williamson, managing director at Fortem, said: “Despite the COVID-19 challenge, site wide production at Snibston Country Park has been maintained to great effect. Our on-site teams and subcontractors have rigorously adopted Construction Leadership Council guidelines, allowing significant progress to be made across the park.
“At Fortem we care about sustainability and leaving a legacy, so we’re excited about the longterm benefits this regeneration project will provide for both the environment and the local community.”
The county council is also working with the Snibston Heritage Group to provide interpretation and access to the historic colliery buildings and the story of Coalville.