A campaign to save a ‘green lung in the heart of York’ is building towards a crucial milestone.
Severus Hill, which stands 35 metres above sea level in Holgate, is described as “a place of environmental, natural and historical significance” by those fighting to save it.
The site of a former reservoir, it is owned by Keyland Developments, the property trading arm of Yorkshire Water owners Kelda Group, who put it up for auction last year. It was marketed as “of interest to any developers and speculators”.
The auction was postponed so Yorkshire Water could meet with ward councillors working with residents to save Severus Hill for the community.
Now the Friends of Severus Hill have agreed a deadline of June to raise funds and put in a community bid for the site and save it for future generations.
Severus Hill, including its landmark water tower, has been fenced off for years by the landowners. That means nature has reclaimed the space, “forming an island oasis – a green lung in the heart of York, providing a sanctuary for wildlife and nature to thrive”, say the Friends of Severus Hill.
As well as improving air quality in the surrounding area, the site is home to various flora and fauna, including calcareous grass, rare in the North, making it a Site of Interest for Nature Conservation.
They have put together this video as part of the campaign.
This spring, the Friends will be launching fundraising efforts to secure the hill.
Labour ward councillor for Holgate Jenny Kent said “This small but much loved hill has a huge significance for Holgate, Acomb and beyond.
“It’s impact on our city’s biodiversity cannot be understated, as a green oasis amongst residential housing, and a stepping stone and nesting ground for many different types of birds and animals.
“Its heritage and history are unique. We are excited to be working with the community and landowners to safeguard the future of the hill. This really is a unique opportunity to do something good this spring.”
Holgate resident of over 60 years and Friend of Severus Hill David Ryder was instrumental in the Save Severus Campaign back in 2017.
He said “It’s not just the people who are lucky enough to sit around the hill and appreciate that beautiful space and green every morning.
“Birds travel. They rewilded the space over the last decades and they did it for their own good. Nature working with nature. We need to maintain that.”
As well as its environmental credentials, Severus Hill has an impressive history. With its roots based in the last ice age it has connections to Roman emperor Septimius Severus, the Second World War blitz, and Victorian era excursions.
Anyone interested in environmental, natural or historical elements of the hill and York are urged to join the cause by visiting the official website, joining the Facebook Group and following the Friends on Instagram.
A Friends spokesperson said: “Together, many in the community are working tirelessly to ensure that Severus Hill remains a cherished natural sanctuary, preserving York’s view fit for a Roman Emperor for generations to come.”