Hareshaw Linn Car Park Expansion: A Boost for Visitors and Local Community

Visitors to Hareshaw Linn in Bellingham can now enjoy improved parking facilities, thanks to a major expansion that has doubled parking capacity and introduced new amenities. The enhancement is part of Northumberland National Park’s Welcoming Park for All project, designed to make the region more accessible and enjoyable for both locals and tourists.

Expanded Parking to Improve Visitor Experience

The project has seen a transformation of the existing car park, which now features a new layout and the installation of two electric vehicle (EV) charging points capable of charging up to four cars simultaneously. Additionally, an extra 14-space car park has been created, increasing overall capacity from 12 spaces to 25.

To cater to a diverse range of visitors, the newly improved facilities also include:

• Two designated disabled parking bays for improved accessibility
• New bike racks to encourage eco-friendly travel options
• Optimised car park configuration for better traffic flow and convenience

The upgrades aim to accommodate more visitors during peak periods while reducing congestion and disruption for local residents.

Enhancing Accessibility at Hareshaw Linn

The Hareshaw Linn car park expansion is the first initiative to be completed under the Welcoming Park for All project, funded by the North East Combined Authority as part of the Rural Asset Multiplier Pilot Programme (RAMP). This ambitious scheme is focused on enhancing popular visitor sites by improving accessibility, upgrading infrastructure, and ensuring these natural attractions remain welcoming to all.

Hareshaw Linn is one of Northumberland’s most treasured natural landmarks, famous for its picturesque woodland walk, dramatic waterfalls, and rare plant species. As a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Scheduled Monument, it attracts both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. The improvements will ensure that more visitors can experience this stunning location with greater ease and convenience.

Local Leaders Praise the Initiative

Supporting Nature Tourism and Local Communities

Tony Gates, Chief Executive of Northumberland National Park Authority, expressed his enthusiasm for the improvements:

“Hareshaw Linn is a place of extraordinary natural beauty, renowned for its tranquil setting, breathtaking waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. This expansion allows more people to visit and enjoy the area, particularly with spring just around the corner.”

He also highlighted the benefits for the local community:

“By increasing parking capacity, we can better accommodate visitors, which will help reduce congestion and minimise disruption for local residents. We deeply appreciate the patience of the community while these works were carried out.”

Investing in Sustainable and Accessible Infrastructure

Cllr Glen Sanderson, Cabinet Member for Rural, Coastal, and Environment at the North East Combined Authority, emphasised the importance of accessibility:

“This project is about ensuring that Hareshaw Linn remains a destination that is accessible to all. By introducing disabled parking bays, electric vehicle charging stations, and bike racks, we are encouraging more sustainable travel options while making the area more inclusive.”

He also noted the significance of preserving the peaceful and unspoiled charm of Hareshaw Linn:

“There are many special places in our region, but few are as serene as this. The work funded through RAMP has been carried out with great sensitivity to maintain the area’s natural beauty.”

Improving Visitor Access and Reducing Pressure on Local Roads

Cllr John Riddle, Local Ward Member for the area, acknowledged the long-standing parking challenges and welcomed the improvements:

“I know first-hand how popular Hareshaw Linn is, and parking had previously been an issue, particularly on busy days. This expansion will not only improve visitor access but also ease the strain on nearby roads and make life easier for local businesses and residents.”

Why This Expansion Matters

1. Supporting Local Tourism

• The increased parking capacity ensures that more visitors can enjoy Hareshaw Linn without concerns about finding a parking space.
• The improvements will likely boost tourism in Bellingham, benefiting local businesses such as cafes, pubs, and accommodation providers.

2. Promoting Sustainable Travel

• With the addition of EV charging stations, the initiative supports the UK’s transition to electric vehicles and reduces the carbon footprint of visitors.
• New bike racks encourage more people to cycle to the site, aligning with national efforts to promote active traveland reduce congestion.

3. Enhancing Accessibility for All

• The inclusion of dedicated disabled parking bays ensures that individuals with mobility challenges can visit and explore Hareshaw Linn with ease.
• The reconfiguration of the parking area improves traffic flow, making it safer and more user-friendly for all visitors.

4. Protecting the Environment

• The project has been carried out with great sensitivity to the natural surroundings, ensuring that the expansion does not compromise the beauty or ecological significance of the area.
• By preventing roadside parking overflow, the improvements help protect local landscapes and prevent damage to delicate habitats.

Looking Ahead

The success of this project at Hareshaw Linn sets a strong precedent for future upgrades across Northumberland National Park. With funding from initiatives such as RAMP, other popular visitor destinations may also see similar improvements to enhance accessibility, sustainability, and visitor experience.

Whether you’re a hiker, a nature lover, or a local resident, the new and improved Hareshaw Linn car park ensures a more convenient and enjoyable visit to one of Northumberland’s most breathtaking natural sites.

With the arrival of spring and summer, this upgraded facility is perfectly timed to accommodate more visitors while preserving the tranquil charm of this beloved beauty spot. Plan your visit today and experience the enhanced accessibility and convenience first-hand!

Key Takeaways:

✅ Parking capacity doubled – from 12 to 25 spaces.
✅ New 14-space car park created.
✅ EV charging stations for up to 4 electric vehicles.
✅ Two designated disabled bays for improved accessibility.
✅ New bike racks to promote sustainable travel.
✅ Less congestion, better visitor experience.
✅ First completed project under the ‘Welcoming Park for All’ initiative.

This project is a significant milestone for Northumberland National Park, ensuring that more people can enjoy the stunning landscapes and historical sites while maintaining the area’s natural integrity. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning nature enthusiast, the improvements at Hareshaw Linn are set to enhance your experience.