April 6, 2008
Summary of the Pinfold so far
Conceived as Phase 2 of the Crossroads project, the plan was to develop a structure on the site of the former village Pinfold which had stood for many years as a place where stray animals were kept, to be released on payment of an appropriate fine. It was proposed to build a circular structure on the site of the Pinfold incorporating seating and an interpretation board commemorating various aspects of the rich history of our village.
A steering group was set up comprising Richard Parkin (Project Manager) Linda Haywood (Bishopthorpe local History Group) John Bettridge & Liam Godfrey (Millennium Trust) with representation from City of York Council.
The project was boosted by a successful application to the Heritage Lottery Fund which provided the bulk of the funding, the remainder being provided by the Millennium Trust.
In June 2007 the structure was opened and was soon used by villagers young and old. However after dark it became the scene of anti-social behaviour and a number of acts of vandalism were committed. This led to the delay in installing the interpretation board.
As this continued the decision was taken by the Parish Council (to whom responsibility had subsequently passed) to close the structure pending various remedial work being carried out. This includes replacing the seating with York Stone as there has been a problem with the existing wooden seating and improved lighting. It is hoped to begin this work soon, together with the installation of the history board.
Hopefully, therefore during 2008 we will finally have what was always envisaged, a feature that we can all be proud of, a place for people to meet and appreciate some of our history.
Posted by liam at 3:14 PM