We are carrying out ground-breaking research to truly understand the value of Little Asby Common, located in the heart of the Westmorland Dales and would like to hear your views on what is special and important to you about the Common which we have owned and managed in partnership with its common rights holders since 2003.


 
It has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation. Extensive research over many years by the charity has also revealed over 200 archaeological sites on the common and unrestricted open access provides a haven for walkers from near and far; the Coast-to-Coast walking route snakes through one of the most important limestone landscapes in England.
 
So the Common is rich in terms of its nature, access and archaeology, but what about the other things that make it special? The views, the skills of the dry stone wallers, the stockmanship of the commoners or the sense of community in the area? 

We are undertaking the research with Lois Mansfield of Environmentors Ltd on behalf of Natural England and it will be the first study of its kind to place a value on every benefit that this land provides us with. The results are likely to have national significance in determining how we measure the true value of our landscape and how it is managed in the future.

Jan Darrall, Land Manager:
 
“The tranquility and beauty of our landscapes can often belie their complexity. As custodians of many sites across Cumbria, we are always juggling with competing priorities in terms of their care and management and Little Asby Common is no exception. It is a site of national importance enjoyed by thousands of visitors and we have a duty to get it right.
 
“We are asking people to let us know what is special to them about the Common by completing our online survey. We want as many people as possible to complete the survey. It does not matter if you have never visited as you can still value the benefits it can provide for society in general.
 
“The results will not only help us prioritise how we care for and manage this site in the years ahead but will be shared nationally to highlight the ‘hidden’ value of our landscapes and their importance to us all.”