Green park near folly set to open next spring

The scheme, which will see wooden lodges built alongside a new campsite, near the Grade II listed Druids’ Temple between Ripon and Masham, was given the go-ahead earlier this year in an attempt to halt anti-social behaviour blighting the area.

The 18th century Druids’ Temple folly was created by William Darby of Swinton Castle, and still rests in the grounds of the Swinton Estate.

But despite being a popular visitor attraction, in recent years it has become a magnet for anti-social behaviour and late-night gatherings, particularly during the summer solstice and Halloween.

Despite concerns the new development could impact on the landscape, which is in the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Beauty, members of Harrogate Borough Council unanimously approved the scheme in March.

The decision came after planning officers claimed the park could help “re-brand the site as a family holiday destination” and deter yobs descending on the area at night.

Bivouac Swinton, which is expected to open in April 2012, has been backed by the chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, Gary Verity. He said: “The Bivouac will be a unique experience in the UK and will instantly become one of the places to stay in the county raising the bar again for Yorkshire’s award-winning accommodation providers.

“Its appeal will be universal from walkers and climbers keen on a unique break on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales to families and weekenders wanting to sample a night under the stars with a difference and I for one cannot wait for it to open.”

Facilities at the new park include luxury yurts and hand-built woodland shacks, which have been designed for the site and built using Sweet Chestnut timber sourced from the Swinton Estate.