CHILDREN are set to benefit from the multi-million pound modernisation of council-owned outdoor education centre Bewerley Park.

The centre, near Pateley Bridge, visited by generations of children from across Yorkshire, was one of two centres owned by North Yorkshire Council that were earmarked for closure following the Covid-19 pandemic.

Following an outpouring of support, towards the end of 2021, the council looked at upgrading Bewerley Park, along with a second centre at East Barnby; and in December last year, the council agreed a £4.2 million investment in the centres.

Now, work is underway on the modernisation of the Bewerley Park centre, which was built in the 1940s and consists of 31 mainly wooden buildings.

The first phase will see a range of improvements to breathe new life into the centre, which is in the Nidderdale National Landscape, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

It will include the creation of a new 95-bed accommodation block which is due to be completed by summer next year.

The facility will boast 14 ensuite rooms, accommodation for visiting staff, a drying room and break out spaces for future residential school trips.

At a meeting of North Yorkshire Council’s executive on November 28, 2023, members approved the first phase of investment at the flagship outdoor education centres – Bewerley Park in Pateley Bridge and East Barnby near Whitby.

Work to modernise the East Barnby site, which is soon to begin, is set to see low carbon technologies introduced and changes to the dining and all accommodation blocks.

A separate decision on phase two of the redevelopment programme is expected in the 2027/28 financial year.

The council’s executive member for education, learning and skills, Councillor Annabel Wilkinson, said: “I am so pleased that work has started on the new accommodation block at this fantastic facility.

“Over the years hundreds of children and young people from schools and other groups far and wide have had a taste of adventure in the picturesque North Yorkshire surroundings of Bewerley Park, coming away with new found confidence, friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.”

She added: “The redevelopment demonstrates our commitment to outdoor learning experiences and will provide modern and comfortable accommodation for schools, clubs and groups to enjoy for decades.”

Cllr Andrew Murday, who represents the Pateley Bridge and Nidderdale division, said: “The Bewerley Park Outdoor Education Centre has been a fantastic facility for decades.

“Children have an outstanding experience during their stay here, be it learning about nature or taking part in exciting adventure activities or simply forging friendships, and are supported by a highly qualified, experienced and passionate team.

“However, the old wooden accommodation buildings are tired and require modernising so that children and young people can enjoy the brilliant outdoor learning facilities we have in North Yorkshire.”

Meanwhile, the managing director of Northallerton-based Walter Thompson, Paul Hammerton, expressed his excitement about the project.

The firm, which has been contracted to carry out the work, has been involved in previous projects such as a 65-bedroom care home in Northallerton and Overdale Community Primary School, which has space for 420 pupils at Middle Deepdale near Scarborough.

Mr Hammerton said: “We are delighted to have been chosen as the main contractor for the replacement of the residential block at Bewerley Park. This development will greatly enhance the experience for young people visiting the centres.”

While work is being carried out, schools are advised that Bewerley Park will be remaining open throughout the redevelopment.

The council’s assistant director for inclusion, Amanda Newbold, said: “We want all young people to grow up with a love of the outdoors and a passion for adventure. Lots of adults tell us that they still remember their school residential weeks and everything they gained from it.

“We don’t want anyone to miss out, that’s why we’ve introduced some amazing offers for schools, with a three-day residential in 2025/26 now starting from just £139 per person. Ensuring high quality outdoor learning and residential experiences are affordable is a big priority for us, as is making sure that our incredible centres are fit for the future, so we’re thrilled to see work starting.”

More information about the outdoor learning centres and current offers is available at www.outdoored.co.uk/residentialoffers