Thousands of native trees are being planted across Kynren – The Storied Lands as the landmark new attraction prepares to open its gates next month.
While attention has understandably focused on the spectacular live shows, immersive experiences and major new attractions taking shape in Bishop Auckland, an equally ambitious environmental programme has been unfolding behind the scenes.
More than 16,100 native trees and hedging plants are being planted across the park this year alone as part of a long-term commitment to habitat creation, biodiversity and nature conservation.
The extensive programme includes the creation of new woodland, native hedgerows, wildflower meadows and wildlife corridors across the attraction’s 150-acre site.
Large areas of grassland have already been seeded as wildflower meadows, while all visitor car parks have also been sown with specialist wildflower mixes designed to support pollinators and other wildlife.
New buildings across the site have been constructed with living green roofs, helping absorb carbon, improve insulation and create additional habitats for insects and birds.
The environmental improvements extend beyond planting. More than 80 bird boxes, 30 bat boxes and five owl boxes have been installed throughout the site’s riparian corridors, with wildlife already beginning to move in.
“An owl has already been spotted in one of the new boxes and we are very excited to see what other new residents they attract over the coming weeks,” said Anna Warnecke, Chief Executive of Kynren.
“Creating Kynren – The Storied Lands has never been solely about building attractions. Our vision has always been to create something that also enhances the landscape, supports wildlife and leaves a positive environmental legacy for future generations.
“Many visitors will come for the shows and experiences, but they will also be spending time in a landscape that has been carefully designed to encourage biodiversity and reconnect people with nature,” she added.
The attraction has also planted a traditional orchard featuring rare apple and pear varieties sourced from the National Fruit Collection, helping preserve heritage fruit species while creating another valuable habitat for wildlife.
Many of the trees being planted have been supplied by local nurseries, supporting regional businesses while ensuring species are suited to the local environment.
The work forms part of a wider commitment to conservation and education, including habitat management, wildlife outreach programmes and partnerships with organisations including the Hawk Conservancy Trust.
Opening on 18 July, Kynren – The Storied Lands will feature five large scale live shows and immersive experiences inspired by history, myth, legend and nature.
By the time the first visitors arrive, organisers hope they will not only discover a new attraction but also a landscape transformed by thousands of newly planted trees and habitats that will continue to grow for generations to come.
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
