PATHWAYS around Broomfield Hospital are set for a makeover thanks to a cash boost of almost £50,000.


The ancient woodlands within Pudding Wood and the Long Shapely Belt that surround the hospital site will be improved following a £49,500 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.


The funds will bring long term benefits for all visitors to the hospital with new areas for quiet reflection being created alongside improved access routes into the hospital.
 

The aim of the project will be the sustainability of the natural woodland estate and to encourage the understanding of this historic environment by everyone that uses it.


Volunteers will be trained and equipped to ensure the long term success of the project, with the improvement to existing paths that will link the grounds with the surrounding community and countryside.
 

Nick Alston, chairman of charitable funds, said: “We recognised we have work to do on the outside of the hospital and this is the first stage of this process.
"We want the green spaces of Broomfield to offer patients visitors and staff a place to use for leisure or just for quiet reflection at what could be a stressful time.”


Mid Essex Hospitals NHS Trust has also won a Green Community award for Pudding Wood from Keep Britain Tidy.