National Trust to double size of Plymouth park

The Trust said Saltram park would have play areas, outdoor spaces and a wheeled-activity skills area

The National Trust plans to double the size of a country park in Plymouth.

The trust hopes by expanding the free-to-access park at Saltram it will "enhance public access, restore historical landscapes and improve the area’s natural habitats".

An investment of up to £1m by the trust will add 32 hectares to the 213 hectare estate to double its size, and include a 2.5km (1.5 mile) trail for cyclists, walkers and wheelchair users.

Hilary McGrady, director-general of the National Trust, said it was part of its plans to provide wider access for people to the outdoors.

She said: "The green spaces in our towns and cities are so important to us all – they’re places to unwind, to play, to improve our health, and to support wildlife.

"We want to bring nature closer to people’s doorsteps, and by opening up this area of land, we hope to do just that for more people in Plymouth."

An additional £300,000 will be provided by external partners for the trail.

The Trust said the park would also have play areas, outdoor spaces for events and a wheeled-activity skills area.

It has put forward a planning application to Plymouth City Council for the project with hopes to have the park completed by the spring in 2025.