NEWS FEED
There was double cause for celebration after Moors Valley Country Park and Forest near Ringwood, came away with two gold awards in this year’s Dorset Tourism Awards.
It won gold in both the Access and Inclusivity and Sustainable Tourism categories.
The Access and Inclusivity award recognises a business that can demonstrate exceptional customer service to all, particularly those with impairments and other access needs, including mobility, auditory, sensory or dietary. The Sustainable Tourism award is made to companies that demonstrate commitment to sustainability and implements clear reduce, reuse and recycle initiatives.
Clare Gronow, team leader at the park said: “Over the last few years we have increased our focus on improving access to the park and across all our activities. At the same time, we have set out to minimise the potential negative impact that such a large operation can have on the environment.”
In the past year, Moors Valley has hosted a disabled access day when people could try out some of the accessible equipment and activities on offer. Since entering the award, the Park has also undertaken an access and inclusivity audit using an independent specialist and will be implementing their recommendations over the coming months.
Jointly managed by East Dorset District Council and the Forestry Commission, sustainability initiatives in the Park include using vegetable oil for vehicles and chain saws, solar panel heating, a biomass boiler, rainwater harvesting and a range of other reduce, reuse and recycle activities. Sustainability is at the heart of how the Forestry Commission manages the forest and harvests the timber.
