Brief
This project formed part of a wider vision to enhance the local area, improve accessibility, and strengthen community connections.
Concertus was commissioned to review proposals for a new accessible woodland trail and progress the project through RIBA Stages 4-5. Our role included producing a comprehensive technical design package, which enabled the appointed contractor, G F Tomlinson, to provide accurate pricing and ensured delivery to the correct specification.
The client, Derbyshire Dales District Council, aimed to create a trail connecting four significant heritage sites: The Wishing Stone, located in the woodland above Hurst Farm, Baily’s Trump, a World War Two heritage site, the John Bowne Memorial, and Lumsdale Conservation Area.
Key Info
Location:
Matlock,Derbyshire
Client:
Derbyshire Dales District Council
End User:
Hurst Farm Estate
Project Value:
£700,000
Contract Type:
JCT Contract
Contractor:
G F Tomlinson
Disciplines:
Landscape Architecture; Quantity Surveying + Cost Consultancy; Structural + Civil Engineering; Heath and Safety + CDM; Contract Administrator;
Imagery
Scope
Concertus worked closely with stakeholders including ecologists, interpretation consultants, residents, community groups, and onsite rangers.
Our team resolved queries and agreed solutions that balanced accessibility with environmental sensitivity, to transform the trail into a well-used community asset.
At the start of Concertus’ involvement in this project, our project team carried out a visit with the client to a previous WTS that we had been involved in, to provide end-result context for suggestions that had been provided within the designs. We also used this to showcase our lessons learnt process to provide better service and processes on this project to streamline the design updates.
To overcome these challenges, we implemented innovative and sustainable design choices, such as replacing the proposed boardwalk through the woods to a more durable Flexipave path constructed using Cellweb. Cellweb was used extensively across this project to provide effective root protection, as well as serve as an engineering solution to create flat paths on steep slopes. Its porous nature also allows for water to drain through and its use of recycled materials limits damage to the environment.
The project introduced a new flight of approximately 150 steps to connect the Wishing Stone, Community Garden, and Milk Churn Café with Helicopter Park. These areas previously had no formal access and were reachable only by the most agile of visitors. These newly constructed steps are designed for stability and safety, incorporating handrails on both sides to provide access down the steep bank.
To keep costs within budget, the path width was slightly reduced while maintaining wheelchair accessibility. Some interpretive elements, such as archways and stone walls, were omitted back, resulting in savings for the client.
The remote site presented extensive restrictions and challenges, requiring close collaboration with the contractor to minimise machinery use and avoid disruption to the existing landscape. All materials were retained onsite for reuse, and the presence of existing trees necessitated no-dig solutions, adding complexity to the project. Excavation was limited to hand digging and small machinery to avoid damage to the existing trees. Transporting construction materials to the site proved labour-intensive and time-consuming due to restricted access.
In line with budget constraints, local businesses were appointed to reduce travel costs and leverage community knowledge of the site’s heritage. This approach supported the local economy and ensured sensitivity to cultural and environmental priorities.
Testimonial
“Becky has been great to work with on the Hurst Farm project. Her relationship skills with the client have been excellent. She brings a calm, collaborative presence to every meeting. Her attentive nature means nothing is ever overlooked and her eye for detail has repeatedly strengthened the quality and clarity of the design work and approach. Becky balanced creativity with practical solutions, ensuring that proposals are both in-keeping for the environment and achievable within restricted budgets. She has been an invaluable part of the team.”
Lucy Godfrey, a representative for Hurst Farm
Result
The trail has transformed Hurst Farm into a more inclusive and connected environment, preserving its heritage while promoting sustainability and community pride.
The Hurst Farm Heritage Trail, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Derbyshire Dales District Council, was delivered on time and within budget. It now provides a safe, accessible route linking heritage sites, community spaces and is a vital connection for residents, including a shortcut for schoolchildren. It has also enhanced opportunities for recreation and engagement with local history.
This project is part of a broader initiative to revitalise Hurst Farm, including the creation of a community garden, renovation of the Social Club, and development of local amenities such as the Milk Churn Café, Farmer’s View pub, and a community pantry. Since the trail’s completion, visitor numbers have risen, and the Milk Churn Café is seeing increased trade.
Designer Behind the Design
“We worked closely with Derbyshire Dales District Council and G F Tomlinson to create a lovely trail linking local heritage sites, with seating, artwork and signage. It is great to see it now being so well used and people accessing and enjoying the local asset. It has been a brilliant team effort by all involved and a pleasure to work on.”
Becky Lomas, Senior Landscape Architect, Concertus Design and Property Consultants Ltd