Clayton Vale Local Nature Reserve is an area of reclaimed “urban countryside” in North Manchester. The 57 hectare (140 acre) site consists of informal grasslands and wooded slopes, and is well used by the local community.
Countryscape developed and ran a bespoke Geographical Information Systems (GIS) training programme for Groundwork Manchester, Salford & Trafford Ltd. The training was delivered by Countryscape's technical director, Jonathan Porter, to provide a solid grounding in the techniques of GIS data capture, digitising, analysis and outputting - all tailored to suit the specific, working requirements of the client.
Countryscape is an innovative company combining technical competence with creative flair to give an excellent service. A primary benefit in engaging Countyscape has been the experience of working closely with the directors, Jonathan and Paul, who are able to provide a thorough yet flexible approach. This has resulted in a real sense of partnership in tackling projects - Neil Hewertson, Programme Manager, Groundwork Manchester, Salford & Trafford.
A project to interpret and promote the local heritage of Saint Michael’s Flags (a small public green space in Manchester), working in partnership with the local community. Countryscape was responsible for producing of a 20-page booklet and interactive CD-ROM; a series of outdoor information boards; large format posters; together with facilitating a series of workshops. Content for the booklet and CD was sourced by local residents and edited by Countryscape, including sound clips and movies.
Between February and June 2003, Countryscape was contracted to Groundwork as part of the Irk Valley Project - a partnership between Groundwork, Manchester City Council, NGOs, residents' associations and local businesses, working with the Centre for Urban and Regional Ecology (University of Manchester) to trial an innovative participatory planning process. A total of 18 workshops and site visits allowed community members and partners to explore new ideas for North Manchester and in particular, Moston Vale: a green space along the River Irk.
The team at Countryscape showed a range of skills in helping to pull this complex project together into a coherent set of graphics. They combined a creative approach with a sound knowledge of technology and its potential uses in developing communication tools. They were particularly good at working with us to develop graphics consistent with our educational approach, showing their grasp of the field of sustainable planning - Joanne Tippett, Project Manager, CURE (University of Manchester)