Garden tree-t
LANDSCAPE gardeners from Nostell Priory had a rather large headache when deciding what kind of tree to plant in their new gardens.
For most of us, the toss-up between an oak tree, willow or an ash is about as difficult as it gets.
But for staff at Nostell Priory the choice was somewhat more limited.
The medieval house, which dates back to the 18th century, is governed by a whole host of rules and restrictions to help preserve its historic past.
With 10 listed buildings and two scheduled ancient monuments, any work done must be with the consent of Wakefield District Conservation Planners and adhere to strict rules.
When the landscape planners decided they wanted a tree in the Old Farm Courtyard, little did they realise it would take a year and a comprehensive search for one that would fit in with the original character of the courtyard.
The search was on for a 17th century tree. Eventually they narrowed it down to a choice of three – and yesterday the London plane tree finally arrived to take root in its new home.
The landscaping is just part of an extensive programme at Nostell Priory which will eventually see it restored to all of its former glory.
Steve Fuller from Nostell Priory said: "Over the years, the buildings have fallen into decline and disrepair.
"Lord St Oswald is converting them into modern offices but is restricted by the nature of the buildings.
"Three of the units have already been let and the idea is that when they are finished, more than 100 jobs will be created in the area by firms setting up in the units.
"The object of the exercise is to make sure the buildings are repaired and restored.
"Lord St Oswald's family has provided employment going back 300 years but things have changed and he is responding to the changes locally and trying to bring business back locally."
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Weather for Wakefield
Saturday 04 February 2012
Today
Heavy snow
Temperature: -1 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: South
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 2 C to 6 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: West
