A FRESH approach to green space is taking root at a Craven holiday park.
Under the direction of new head gardener Conrad Bunday, Tarn House Holiday Park, Stirton, near Skipton is planning to transform into a green space of sustainability and wildlife wellbeing.
Mr Bunday, who joined Lancashire-based Partington’s Holiday Parks in September 2025, aims to build a deeper connection between the park and the natural world.
This includes creating habitats for wildlife, supporting endangered species, and encouraging greater biodiversity across the site.
Bug house at Tarn House (Image: Partington Group)
He said: “For me, horticulture has never just been about keeping spaces neat and attractive, it’s about creating environments where wildlife can flourish and where people can reconnect with nature in a meaningful way.
“The goal now is to work with the landscape rather than against it and create a park that actively supports biodiversity at every level, from insects and birds right through to small mammals and reptiles.
“Tarn House is such a special setting for a project like this because we are surrounded by beautiful countryside and already have an incredible natural foundation to build upon.
“What’s been especially inspiring is the knowledge and enthusiasm within the team itself.
“Everyone at Partington’s – from the CEOs to our whole team of gardeners – genuinely cares about conservation and protecting the environment, and together we’re constantly sharing ideas and learning more about the local flora and fauna around us.
“There’s a real sense of excitement about what we can achieve here over the next few years.”
Originally from Hythe in the New Forest, Mr Bunday credits his father for nurturing both his love of gardening and his respect for nature.
Roses outside a glamping pod at Tarn House (Image: Partington Group)
He said those early lessons continue to shape his philosophy and approach to horticulture.
Mr Bunday is now focused on leading across Partington’s sites in the Yorkshire Dales, Lancashire, and the Lake District, to preserve habitats, encourage biodiversity and ensure all their green spaces actively support nature.
At Tarn House, the plans include introducing hedgehog houses, building bug hotels, increasing wild planting, and providing more insect coverage.
The aim is to boost biodiversity and create safe spaces for endangered species, including UK lizards and slow worms.
Mr Bunday and his team of seven are also exploring sustainability improvements at the group’s other parks.
Meadow at Tarn House (Image: Partington Group)
This includes growing wildflower turfs and introducing a wetland mix at Windy Harbour in Lancashire to create eco-friendly environments for birds and insects.
Partington’s Holiday Parks are also looking to encourage younger visitors to engage with nature.
Plans are underway for children to plant seeds during their stays and receive updates as their plants grow, with the aim of sparking a lifelong interest in green spaces and sustainability.
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