Campaigners are mounting a last push to raise the funds to save ‘York’s wild isle’ – Severus Hill.
With just over two weeks to go, the Crowdfunding campaign has raised an impressive £41,000. That’s 60% of its target.
“If everyone in York paid the price of a cup of coffee to this campaign, the city would maintain its essential green lung,” said one supporter.
Campaigners say Severus Hill, which stands 35 metres above sea level in Holgate, is “a place of environmental, natural and historical significance” and want to conserve it for future generations.
The owner of the site, Yorkshire Water, postponed plans to sell it for development to allow the Friends of Severus Hill to put in a community bid for the site. But the deadline to raise the funds is 30 May.
Jo Patton, Friend of Severus Hill volunteer, said: “Severus Hill shows the resistance of nature amidst urban development.
“It serves as a sanctuary and green corridor for wildlife in the heart of our city. This is York’s opportunity to preserve and celebrate its very own ‘Wild Isle’.
“If you’ve ever asked, ‘what can I do about the climate crisis?’ here is a very real practical way right on our doorstep this spring.”
Young creatives
Children at local primary schools submitted 75 entries to a competition aimed at celebrating Severus Hill’s biodiversity.
Inspired by the hill’s resident hedgehogs, children unleashed their creativity, producing an array of inspiring creations ranging from posters to poems.
Three talented winners were picked from amongst the young creatives, and the entries decorated the site entrance opposite Poppleton Road School.
“The enthusiasm and creativity shown by the children in this competition is wonderful,” remarked Ted Schofield, Friend of Severus Hill, and local artist.
“Their passion for preserving Severus Hill for future generations is truly inspiring. They have used their voices, and now its our turn as adults.”
Jo added: “This campaign is about the people of York showing their influence on what kind of city they want to live in and how its landscape should be shaped – in the process preserving a piece of the city’s history for generations to come.
“It’s about ensuring that future York residents can enjoy the same lush greenery and breathtaking views that the hill has provides today. It’s about protecting the biodiversity that makes York such a vibrant and alive place.”
Find out more at the Friends of Severus Hill website, on their Facebook and Instagram channels, and donate here.