Radnor Conservancy: Ardrossan Purchase 'a Critical Opportunity'

The following was submitted for publication by the Radnor Conservancy.

The Radnor Conservancy, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting open space and preserving the natural, cultural and historic assets of Radnor Township, announced its support for the Township’s proposed purchase of portions of the Ardrossan Estate in order to preserve them as open space. 

On Wednesday, November 6 Radnor Township received a signed agreement from the would-be seller of approximately 71 acres of the Ardrossan Estate. 

The purchase of open space could also further enhance Radnor Township’s trail system. Specifically, the potential for walking/running and bicycle paths around the perimeter of the property would provide more opportunities for outdoor recreation and exercise. 

Speaking on behalf of the Radnor Conservancy, David Toomey, board president, said that “We support the Township’s proposed purchase. Ardrossan has historically been viewed as the most important parcel of open space in our Township. Preserving open space on Ardrossan and augmenting Radnor’s parks and trails system will bring significant quality of life, economic and environmental benefits to township residents.” 

“Conversely, if the Township does not purchase the available portions of Ardrossan we will lose a critical opportunity because the likelihood is that it will be privately developed in the future without the requisite conditions to protect our cherished open space,” Toomey added. 

In the coming days, Radnor Conservancy will share the multiple economic, environmental and recreational benefits that will result from the preservation of open space at Ardrossan. Many of these benefits are explained in greater detail in “The Economic Benefits of Preserving The Open Space Near Ardrossan,” a comprehensive study undertaken by local consultancy Econsult Solutions and commissioned by Radnor Conservancy. The full study is available for review on www.radnorconservancy.org.