Elterwater Quarry Adventure Attraction plans resubmitted Just before Christmas, revised proposals were submitted for a visitor attraction at Elterwater Quarry. We have reviewed the plans, we remain opposed to the scheme, and you can read our formal response here. Expand 31st January 2024 We have reviewed the new application, and submitted a response, which you can download in full here. YOU can help too, by contacting the Lake District National Park Authority... Email the Planning Officer Catherine Campbell at [email protected] Or write to Lake District National Park Authority, Murley Moss, Oxenholme Road, Kendal, LA9 7RL quoting the reference number 7/2023/5767 Responses submitted up until a decision is made will still be accepted. We do not expect a decision to be made until at least 6th March 2024. Ensure you state that your comments relate to application reference number 7/2023/5767 We've created a template that may help you make your own response. You can download it at the link below: Elterwater Quarry Response Template (Word Doc) Friends of the Lake District remains opposed to the revised scheme, and you can read our response to get the full details of our position. However it's worth noting one particular aspect of the submission written by our Planning Officer - about the inappropriateness of these kinds of attractions. Here's what she wrote... It is not Friends of the Lake District’s view that this proposal in and of itself would constitute ‘a theme park’. It is our view however that by allowing developments of this type, the Lake District is at risk of being incrementally turned into something akin to a theme park. That is to say that the Lake District National Park and World Heritage Site itself will become but the theme and backdrop for a series of activities and attractions unrelated and unconnected to it or its special qualities and Outstanding Universal Values (OUVs). When participating in this type of activity, one is not conserving and enhancing the natural beauty, wildlife or cultural heritage. Nor is one enjoying or understanding the special qualities and OUVs. The enjoyment is focused on the activity itself in a way that it could be no matter the location, setting or theme. Zip World’s other sites by way of example include underground golf and underground trampolining. People will experience adrenaline rushes on a zip wire/high ropes course wherever it is located. Participants on a ropes and zip wires course are unlikely to pause to read interpretive panels and indeed they are encouraged to move on to avoid holding others up or resulting in too many people being on one platform or part of the course. They are unlikely to be paying significant attention to the intricacies of the quarry caverns or the connections between the quarry cavern and the cultural heritage and landscape of the area whilst they focus on placing their hands and feet in the right places, keep checks on whether they are clipped on properly and pluck up the courage to launch themselves off platforms against their instincts. This is in clear contrast to those activities that do display the attributes appropriate for National Parks. National Parks are for everyone, but this does not mean that National Parks are obliged to provide all types of activity for all preferences and tastes, regardless of appropriateness or impacts. It means that activities that meet and further the National Park purposes should be available and accessible to those who wish to do them. Activities such as fell walking/rambling, rock climbing, lake swimming, star gazing, wildlife watching and many more are dependent on and closely linked to, and involve immersion in and connection with, the special qualities and OUVs. The activity is therefore focused on interaction with the environment, rather than the focus being on an activity that merely takes place in an environment. The key difference then being that the environment-focused activities generate greater enjoyment and understanding of the special qualities and OUVs, and consequently an increased desire to protect these, furthering both the first and second purposes. Activities that are placed in, but unrelated to and devoid of any connection with the environment, do not achieve this. 23rd January 2024 We have issues a press release today citing our concerns about this planning application and we are now inviting people to join us in writing to the Lake District National Park Authority to raise their concerns. This is a National Park not a Theme Park! Landscape charity Friends of the Lake District today announced that it will continue to oppose plans for a major visitor attraction at Elterwater Quarry, despite the changes the developer has made to the proposal. Plans for the ‘cavern explorer’ rope course and zip wires were re-submitted immediately before Christmas, after the initial proposal was rejected by the planning committee. Quarry owners Burlington Slate Ltd are working with Zip World, who operate 23 zipwire courses across the UK, to develop the adventure attraction. There has been widespread opposition to the plan, including from ICOMOS (the International Council on Monuments and Sites), who are concerned that the proposal will damage aspects of the Lake District which underpin its status as a World Heritage Site. They’ve previously said the development is “…of a type that would transform the quarry or part of it into a theme park and would trivialise the experience of an important aspect of the Lake District’s heritage”. Will you join us in standing up for Elterwater again? We would urge anyone who has an interest in the Elterwater / Langdale area to take look at the plans and make their own views known. We will be making a written response and you can too. Click here to find out how> 90,000 people signed a petition against the pre-application proposal, which also included a ‘cavern coaster’. The proposal was refused by the planning committee largely due to the inadequacy of the travel plan (which describes how visitors are intended to get to the attraction). Friends of the Lake District’s position is that there is no justification for the adventure attraction, and that the new version of the proposal will still result in significant extra traffic through the already highly congested village of Elterwater. The charity’s CEO Michael Hill said: “Langdale is already one of England’s most iconic valleys, offering adventurous natural experiences and home to thriving businesses. There’s no evidence that Langdale will be enhanced by a major new attraction. The revised travel plan is entirely unrealistic. How many people are going to park 6 miles away, then get a mixture of boats, buses, and bikes to Elterwater? Everyone will end up driving there, adding even more congestion to the narrow roads in this remote community, harming tranquillity, and increasing carbon emissions. This is the wrong attraction, at the wrong time, in the wrong place”. With another zipwire proposal also re-emerging at Honister slate mine, these applications raise further questions about what sort of visitor attractions are appropriate for the Lake District. Friends of the Lake District says many of its members feel that ‘theme park’ type plans are exploiting the area, rather than enhancing it or complementing its special qualities. It’s thought that the revised Elterwater application will be considered at planning committee in March at the earliest. Friends of the Lake District says there’s growing local anger at the proposal and they’re urging people to submit their own response as soon as possible, using a special web page the charity has created. They’re also planning an event in the area ahead of the committee meeting. 12 January 2023 Just before Christmas, revised proposals were submitted for a visitor attraction at Elterwater Quarry. We and many others objected to the original plans due to potential impacts on the character and tranquillity of the area, World Heritage attributes and traffic. The plans were refused by the Lake District National Park Authority’s planning committee, who were not satisfied by the transport arrangements for the site. We remain opposed in principle to a major tourist attraction being established in a small remote community, which is already under huge visitor pressure. On initial review of the revised Travel Plan, we remain unconvinced by the measures proposed to address traffic impacts and ensure access to the site by sustainable transport. We will be submitting a response by the deadline of 31st January. To view the application and respond, search for planning reference 7/2023/5767 here 6th September 2023 Elterwater Quarry Adventure Attraction Rejected Proposals to build an adventure attraction in a former quarry at Elterwater in the Langdale Valley have been rejected by planners today, on grounds of traffic impacts. Landscape conservation charity Friends of the Lake District campaigned against the proposal, and their Planning Officer Lorayne Wall spoke at the planning meeting, along with Lakes Parish Council. As the Lake District is a World Heritage Site, ICOMOS (the International Council on Monuments and Sites, an advisory body to UNESCO) also voiced deep concerns about the proposal, including that it would transform part of the quarry into a theme park, and would likely disrupt the tranquil character of Langdale and trivialise its heritage. Over 90,000 people had signed an online petition against the development, which previously included a 'Cavern coaster’ ride, (subsequently removed from the planning application). Friends of the Lake District Planning Officer Lorayne Wall said: ‘We’re very pleased that this application has been turned down today – Langdale is simply the wrong place for a visitor attraction of this type. The narrow winding lanes around Elterwater just cannot cope with a large influx of cars, coaches and people, which will impact upon its character and tranquillity.’ 29th August 2023 Some of you have been in touch seeking an update on the proposals for a tourism attraction at Elterwater Quarry. In July, documents were made available indicating the strong views of ICOMOS (the International Council on Monuments and Sites) and advising of their concerns about the impact of the plans on the World Heritage Site and stating that the proposal should not be progressed. The response of ICOMOS is not definitive but has to be factored into the decision by the Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA). It is quite rare for ICOMOS to take the step of responding to a planning application and we had expected it to be given significant weight. However, we are disappointed to learn that the plans are being recommended for approval. We will continue to challenge this proposal and will speak at the planning committee meeting on September 6th. 27th February 2023 We have now submitted a written response to this planning application which you can read here: Elterwater Quarry Planning Response 27th February 2023 720235012.pdf Whilst we recognise the scaled-down nature of the proposals compared to the plans set out informally in 2022, we remain deeply concerned about several elements of this proposal. This includes the traffic, vehicle and visitor impacts on the tranquillity and rural character of the area, conflicts with net zero commitments set at national, Cumbrian and Lake District levels and the stated aims of the Lake District National Park Management Plan relating to sustainable travel. In particular, the need to significantly reduce use of the private car as a means of getting to, from and around the National Park. We also have concerns relating to several other aspects. We therefore object to the proposed development. You can view the plans for Elterwater Quarry by searching for reference 7/2023/5012 the Lake District National Park's planning webpage. You can submit your own comments to the Planning Authority by emailing [email protected], quoting reference 7/2023/5012 31st January 2023 Reaction to Elterwater Quarry Plans We recognise that plans for Elterwater Quarry have been scaled down, and no longer include an outdoor zip wire or ‘cavern coaster’ ride. The amount of car parking proposed on-site has also been reduced. However, we still have significant concerns, particularly about traffic and visitor numbers, but also other aspects such as biodiversity, future restoration of the site and a lack of information. Thank you to those of you that have been in touch with your thoughts and copies of your own responses to the proposal. These will help us to formulate the collective response from Friends of the Lake District, which we will be preparing over the coming week or so. Our response will be posted on our website as soon as it is available. You can view the plans by searching for reference 7/2023/5012 the Lake District National Park's planning webpage. You can comment by emailing [email protected], quoting reference 7/2023/5012 Update 23rd January 2023 We have now undertaken an initial review of the planning application. The proposals represent a significant scaling down compared to those presented informally last year and they no longer include an outdoor zip wire or ‘cavern coaster’ ride. The amount of car parking proposed on-site has also been dramatically reduced. The proposals now comprise: Continuation of some slate extraction/stone (re)working /processing Scaled down parking area (35 visitor and 4 staff spaces, plus 3 coach spaces), with some landscaping to the northern boundary of the parking area Bike storage area and e-bike charging points Use of the underground caverns (where the ‘cavern coaster’ was proposed) for an ‘on-foot’ ‘cavern explorer’ experience entirely within the caverns Use of the existing buildings, with some repairs and improvements, for activities such as slate working demonstrations, area for school/educational groups, small visitor centre etc. “Limited food and beverage” provision Small visitor centre Outdoor area dedicated to heritage interpretation, including outdoor natural history trail Retaining the existing PRoW route The proposal nevertheless still raises some important questions and concerns relating to: The vehicle and visitor numbers to the site and the resulting impacts on the already busy local roads and existing parking issues, as well as tranquillity and local character. The apparent lack of a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment and any detail regarding lighting The indication in the application that the proposal will be exempt from the requirement to provide 10% biodiversity net gain. The previous planning consent on the site for the “Formation of visitor attraction in association with the operation of a slate quarry” (7/2008/5604) and whether or not this remains valid. The extent of the continuation of stone extraction at the site and how this and the current proposals relate to the earlier planning condition requiring them to restore the site once quarrying operations cease. What potential expansion might be planned for the future and whether this would require further planning permission – proposals cannot be refused on the basis of what ‘might’ be planned at a later date, and objections on this basis will carry very limited, if any, weight. However, consideration does need to be given to whether anything further could happen without additional planning consent and whether this can be controlled, for example, through a planning condition. A huge number of responses has already been submitted, however many of these make specific reference to objecting to theme park rides and / or zip wires, despite these no longer being part of the proposals. We would urge anyone who has an interest in the Elterwater / Langdale area to take look at the plans and make their views known. The deadline for responses that we have been advised of is 10th February. We will make our response available here as soon as it is available. You can view the plans by searching for reference 7/2023/5012 on the Lake District National Park's planning webpage. Update 12 January 2023 We are aware that the Elterwater quarry application has now been submitted to the Lake District National Park Authority. We need to assess its impact on the landscape of the Elterwater area before we can make a public statement about it. You can view the plans by searching for reference 7/2023/5012 on the Lake District National Park's planning webpage. 21 July 2022 Elterwater Quarry Update Members and supporters continue to get in touch with us to let us know their views on the proposals for a Zip World development at Elterwater Quarry. Thank you again to everyone who has been in touch. Almost exclusively, views are focused on concerns about traffic impacts, impacts on local character, views, tranquillity and biodiversity and this is reflected by the fact that over 54,000 people have now signed ZipOff’s petition against the plans! What you can do A planning application has not yet been submitted to the National Park planning authority so we would ask that you refrain from contacting the National Park directly at this stage. You can still make your concerns heard and let Burlington Stone know that these plans are inappropriate at this location by taking any of the following actions: Sharing and replying to our Facebook and Twitter posts about the plans @FriendsofLakes https://twitter.com/FriendsofLakes https://www.facebook.com/FriendsoftheLakeDistrict Signing the petition Writing to Burlington Stone themselves to let them know your views - https://elterwaterquarry.co.uk/contact/ If you live locally, writing to Lakes Parish Council, your local Councillor and/or your local MP to let them know your views Letting us know your views if you have not done so already, as this will help to inform our response when a formal consultation takes place, email us: [email protected] Send us your images: We need images of Elterwater and the surrounding area so that can show people just what is at stake. Submit your images> You can help our specialist staff continue to challenge unsuitable developments like Elterwater Quarry by donating to our Planning for the Future Appeal. We don’t know when to expect an application, but we will use all comments received to help inform our response. A really important factor in determining this case will be that the planning consent for Elterwater Quarry’s current operations is subject to a condition that the site be restored once operations cease, therefore the restored site is the baseline against which the Zip World proposals must be assessed. Another will be whether the proposal has the potential to constitute major development, which is only permitted in National Parks in exceptional circumstances, and where it can be demonstrated that the development is in the public interest. This includes consideration of whether it could have a significant adverse impact on the purposes for which the area has been designated. View the Lake District National Park's Elterwater Quarry page Note on Change.org:Friends of the Lake District has no connection at all to Change.org, which is a for-profit business and one of several that hosts online petitions. It is the hosting site used by the local group that started the Zip Off Langdale petition. Change.org operates by asking people who sign any petition to ‘chip in’, which in turns funds the service they provide. This includes helping to share the petition to increase its reach but the money does not, to our knowledge, go direct to helping the individual cause in any other way. There is no obligation to contribute to Change.org and we have not, at any point, suggested anybody should do so. Update 22 June 2022 We asked for your views on an ‘adventure tourism experience’ at Elterwater Quarry. This has been proposed by quarry operators Burlington Stone in partnership with Zip World.Many of you have since been in touch (thank you!), and without exception have expressed deep concern about the plans, which involve a zip wire, ropes courses, an ‘alpine coaster toboggan-style ride and extensive car-parking. Over 30,000 people have also signed an online petition against the proposal. The main concerns raised to us are the traffic and the inappropriateness of this type of attraction in such a rural location near a small village in the Langdale valley, in the heart of the Lake District. Impacts on local character, tranquillity views from surrounding fells, biodiversity and public rights of way have also been highlighted. This type of proposal further adds to concern that our National Park remains very much at risk of becoming a theme park. Find out more, including how you can have your say here. What you can do No application has yet been submitted, but you can make your views known by: • Sharing and replying to our Facebook and Twitter posts about the plans @FriendsofLakes https://twitter.com/FriendsofLakes https://www.facebook.com/FriendsoftheLakeDistrict • Signing the petition• Writing to Burlington Stone themselves to let them know your views - https://elterwaterquarry.co.uk/contact/• If you live locally, writing to Lakes Parish Council, your local Councillor and/or your local MP to let them know your views• Letting us know your views if you have not done so already, as this will help to inform our response when a formal consultation takes place, email us: [email protected]• Send us your images: We need images of Elterwater and the surrounding area so that can show people just what is at stake. Submit your images> You can help our specialist staff continue to challenge unsuitable developments like Elterwater Quarry by donating to our Planning for the Future Appeal. The main concerns among those against the plans are the traffic and the inappropriateness of a theme-park type attraction in such a rural location near a small village in the Langdale valley, in the heart of the Lake District.Elterwater is popular as a location to visit in its own right and as a starting point for walks, so the village itself and the narrow, winding local lanes already suffer the impacts of high levels of traffic and parking problems, including on the surrounding Common Land (Common Land is one of the attributes of Outstanding Universal Value for which the Lake District was designated a World Heritage Site). While removing the currently relatively low levels of quarry traffic from the roads, this proposal would see a huge rise in private cars and coaches passing through the village to access the site. Local businesses in the valley already have to bring in staff from distant towns, due to the lack of a more local workforce, so this would add further to the traffic generated by the development.Although the site itself is a brownfield site - a former quarry - there will be an impact on the landscape character and tranquillity of the area as a result of traffic increases and the nature and level of the activity. There will be an impact on views of the valley from surrounding fells (including open access land) and on the public right of way that currently runs through the quarry itself.While people have been walking on the path through the quarry for many years, slate is nevertheless a natural feature of the landscape and the quarrying of it a centuries-old industry that has shaped the landscape and its communities. Walking through a modern visitor attraction with rides, assault courses, car parks and throngs of people would be a totally different experience and not one that people are usually looking for when they visit Langdale or any part of the National Park. Nor is it an appropriate way of giving an understanding of the hard work and riving hands of Lakeland’s quarrymen or their contribution to and connection with the landscape and local vernacular.The scaling-back of quarrying operations in the Lake District is in line with the conditions made by ICOMOS (the International Council on Monuments and Sites) and UNESCO when the National Park was designated a World Heritage Site in 2017. However, planning consents given for Elterwater quarry as recently as 2021 were subject to a restoration condition, meaning that the operator was expected to carry out a restoration scheme to enhance the local landscape and wildlife habitats once quarrying at the site had ceased. The restored site should be the baseline against which the proposal and its impacts are assessed.The site is also adjacent to a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a County Wildlife Site and close to ancient woodland, so we are also concerned about impacts on biodiversity and the loss of opportunities to enhance it.We continue to ensure that the Lake District is protected from developments that would damage its fabric, its character and its integrity. That it is loved but not exploited. That we and those who follow us can continue to enjoy it and can better understand it. This must surely be possible without also sacrificing it to commercialism. After all, it’s the landscape, in all its glory that’s the real attraction, isn’t it? If you can, please help us continue to protect the Lake District from harmful developments. Donate to our Planning for the Future Appeal today. 30 March 2022 Plans are emerging for the significant redevelopment of Elterwater Quarry. Burlington Stone are proposing to develop an adventure tourism experience and interpretation facility at Elterwater Quarry. We are glad to have been identified by Burlington Stone Ltd. as a specific consultee in relation to these proposals as this will help us to ensure that the landscape and natural environment and the views of our members and supporters are taken into account as the project moves forward. We have already had an informal discussion on-site with Burlington and have highlighted some initial thoughts and potential areas of concern to them, including traffic generation and management, how biodiversity and rights of way might be incorporated and of course, how the proposal will fit within the landscape. We can expect a planning application in the coming months. Read more about what the proposal might involve on www.elterwaterquarry.co.uk – we would be interested to hear your thoughts, email: [email protected] Image credit: Burlington Stone.
Plans for Roanhead holiday lodge resort return A revised planning application has been submitted for the development of a holiday lodge park at Roanhead on the Furness coast. The number of lodges has been reduced but the proposal remains huge, and will still result in significant harm to this sensitive area. Expand For the latest information and updates on this development, visit our separate Campaign section> Update 8th February 2024 A revised planning application has been submitted for the development of a holiday lodge park at Roanhead on the Furness coast. The number of lodges has been reduced but the proposal remains huge, and will still result in significant harm to this sensitive area. Previous responses won’t count, so we need your help again to challenge the plans. A response template to help you can be found here Read our response (Feb 2024) here, and the Appendix here Update 27th Sept 2023We are aware that a further proposal on land adjacent the 450-lodge Roanhead development is afoot. It comprises 62 lodges, 40 touring caravan/motorhome/ camper pitches and visitor facilities.At this stage, it is a screening request, meaning the landowner/developer Queensland County Park Ltd. is just asking for Westmorland & Furness Council’s view on whether an Environmental Impact Assessment would be required for such a proposal. We continue to work with other relevant organisations and the local community, including the Save Roanhead group, and will give further updates, once we have had chance to see the proposals and consider next steps – we will need to carefully consider the relationship between this and the larger proposal already under consideration. Keep up to date here Update 17th July 2023 Challenge to Roanhead plans continues – there’s still time to comment! We are pleased to hear that many people have submitted objections to plans for a 450-lodge holiday resort at Roanhead – a sensitive stretch of the Furness coastline. Together with the National Trust, Cumbria Wildlife Trust, the RSPB, the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, the Woodland Trust and many local people, we have now submitted our strong objection to the scheme. Read Our Response here and a review of the Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment hereAlthough the official deadline has now passed, there is still chance to have your say, as we have had confirmation from the council that responses will still be accepted.Please do consider joining us in speaking up for this special area – even a brief email to the council [email protected] will help!Find out more: https://www.friendsofthelakedistrict.org.uk/roanhead-response-guidance 6th April 2023 Concern continues to grow around plans for a 450-lodge holiday park at Roanhead, a much-valued stretch of the Furness coastline. The developer has now released some feedback from their own consultation, which shows that less than 30% of respondents have a positive opinion of the proposals and that biodiversity impacts and landscape/visual impacts ranked highly amongst the concerns raised.Thank you to everyone who has submitted photographs of the area to help us demonstrate what’s at stake, which includes dramatic views, rare wildlife, sensitive habitats and a sense of wildness, space and tranquillity.Please do continue to let us know your thoughts on this proposal by emailing [email protected]We now know that a planning application can be expected during the week commencing 24th April. We will be making a written response, but we’d urge anyone with concerns about the plans to make their own response too. We’ll post guidance on doing so on our website. 17th February 2023 We reported last year on plans for a large holiday lodge park development, of 450 holiday lodges, close to the sensitive coastal dune habitats at Roanhead and Sandscale Haws, between Askam and Barrow in Furness. We now know that the developers are planning to submit a planning application by Easter 2023. See their plans here. The developers are currently collecting feedback via a short online survey which we would encourage you to complete. This will not negate the need to express your views to the council when the planning application is submitted as comments made now won’t be taken on board by the planners. However, completing the survey will serve to inform the proposals as the developer works towards a planning application, and the planning application may therefore be amended based on the feedback that you submit. Complete the survey at the link: https://roanhead.com/survey/ 12th February 2023 We reported last year on plans for a large lodge park development close to the sensitive coastal dune habitats at Roanhead and Sandscale Haws, between Askam and Barrow in Furness. We now know that the developers are planning to submit a planning application by Easter 2023. Along with other environmental organisations, we have substantial concerns about what this proposal might mean for the much-valued coastal landscape in this area. The following drop-in sessions are being held during February to enable people to find out more: Barrow in Furness: Wednesday 15th February 2023 – 12 to 3pm at The Forum Dalton: Wednesday 15th February 2023 – 5pm to 8pm at Dalton Council Chamber Askam: Thursday 16th February 2023 – 5pm to 8pm at Rankin Hall Image: Sandscale Haws, Duddon sands by Richard Murgatroyd
Allithwaite and Cartmel Residents called to Neighbourhood Plan vote A local referendum on 29 February will decide whether a new Neighbourhood Plan for Allithwaite and Cartmel should be brought into force. We lobbied for policies in the plan to protect dark skies and restrict new-build properties in Cartmel to permanent homes only - a first for Cumbria. Expand A local referendum is to be held on 29th February 2024 to decide whether a new Neighbourhood Plan for Allithwaite and Cartmel should be brought into force as part of the statutory development plan for the area. Friends of the Lake District strongly supported and advised on the inclusion of policies in the plan to protect dark skies and restrict new-build properties in Cartmel to permanent homes only, so it is great news that these policies are in the final document. Friends of the Lake District welcomed the inclusion of policy to protect dark skies and made some recommendations in response to consultations as part of the plans’ preparation. As a result, we have ensured that the policy is robust and reflects the aims of the Dark Skies Cumbria project and our recently published Dark Skies Technical Advice Note. The plan also includes another policy we strongly supported requiring all new properties built in Cartmel to be subject to a principal residence policy, meaning they cannot be sold or used as second or holiday homes. Both these policies are ‘firsts’ for Cumbria – no existing local or neighbourhood plan has a dedicated policy on dark skies or a policy that implements a ‘principal residence’ restriction, so it’s a real step forward that we hope other parishes and planning authorities will follow. We’d urge any of our members and supporters that live in the parish to consider these policies when casting their vote on the plan. More detail on the referendum can be found here https://www.southlakeland.gov.uk/planning-and-building/local-plan/neighbourhood-plans/allithwaite-and-cartmel-neighbourhood-plan/
Troutbeck Housing Plans Rejected An appeal against the refusal of permission for 5 large houses at Troutbeck has been dismissed by the Planning Inspector, who found that the harm to the landscape and heritage significance could not be outweighed by the public benefits of the development. We worked closely with the community to challenge the proposals. Expand Update January 2024 Troutbeck Housing Plans Rejected We were pleased to learn just before Christmas that an appeal against the refusal of permission for 5 large houses at Troutbeck has been dismissed by the Planning Inspector, who found that the harm to the landscape and heritage significance could not be outweighed by the public benefits of the development. The site is identified as important for its special contribution to the landscape and settlement character of Troutbeck Conservation Area and we worked closely with the community to challenge the proposals. We have also worked closely with the community to challenge proposals impacting on another site identified as important for landscape and settlement character in the Troutbeck’ Conservation Area Management Plan. Four dwellings were proposed, again on a former orchard, close to two listed buildings, the Mortal Man hotel and Jawnie Wife House. This was later reduced to two dwellings, but the proposal nevertheless remained harmful to the character of Troutbeck and to the setting of the listed buildings. Troutbeck is highlighted as particularly special in terms of exhibiting many of the attributes for which the Lake District is designated a National Park and World Heritage Site. Although all the houses in these applications were proposed for local occupancy, it is vital that the meeting of housing needs is achieved in locations and ways that do not compromise the very characteristics that make the landscape, including the settlements that form part of it, so special. 2 February 2023 Housing at High Green Troutbeck Refused We are pleased to report that together with Lakes Parish Council and members of the local community, we have successfully challenged proposals for five large, luxury homes at High Green, at the northern end of Troutbeck. The proposals sought the development of an area identified in the Lake District National Park's own Conservation Area Management Plan for Troutbeck as important for its special contribution to landscape and settlement character. The site is also identified as a former orchard (priority habitat) and would have been accessed via Troutbeck’s historic lanes, requiring sections of these designated bridleways to be widened and tarmacked. This was the second time the proposals had been submitted, with the first being withdrawn. The revised plans altered the design of the new-build houses, to resemble 4 farmhouses with attached barns, along with another designed to look like a barn conversion, all clustered around a cul-de-sac. We successfully persuaded the committee to request a site visit and although the planning officer recommended approval, the majority of the planning committee agreed with our concerns. Following our speech and another by a local resident at planning committee on Wednesday 1 February, they refused the application by 6 votes to 4.
Honister Zipewire Plans Resurface A controversial planning consent for a zip wire attraction at Honister Slate Mine in 2018 was never implemented but now, revised proposals have been submitted. Expand 12 January 2023 A controversial planning consent for a zip wire attraction at Honister Slate Mine in 2018 was never implemented but now, revised proposals have been submitted. We are currently reviewing the revised plans and will respond in detail shortly. To view the application and make comments, search for planning reference 7/2023/2286 here>
Whinlatter Zip Wires Proposal Friends of the Lake District submitted a brief response on 9th November 2023 stating that based on a revised application by the applicant which removed two very long, intrusive new zip wires, it no longer objected to this application on landscape grounds. Expand 20th November 2023 A revised application by the applicant on 1st November 2023 removes two very long, intrusive new zip wires above the tree line that had been proposed in the original application submitted on 24th March 2023. What is now proposed is a ropes course element that is contained within the trees and close to the existing ropes courses and visitor centre. Following correspondence with members of the community, Friends of the Lake District submitted a brief response on 9th November 2023 stating that based on these changes, it no longer objected to this application on landscape grounds and that it recognises the removal of the two long zip wires meant a lesser impact on new traffic generation. The new zipwires, which would have been significant separate attractions, detailed in the initial application were also a primary concern of residents, the Highways Authority, The British Horse Society and others too. Friends of the Lake District response 9th November 2023 (pdf) You can view the applicant's revised application submitted 1st November 2023 via the LDNPA Planning Portal by searching by reference number 7/2023/2195 Reporting in the Keswick Reminder this week has cited details from the applicant's original application and Friends of the Lake District's original response submitted on 25th April 2023. This information is out of date, and is superseded by the revised application submitted by the applicant on 1st November 2023 and Friends of the Lake District’s revised response submitted on 9th November 2023.
Loughrigg Meadow Ambleside Housing proposals This proposal was approved by the Lake District National Park Authority’s planning committee on 1st November. The site was allocated for development in the local plan, but we are disappointed that the proposal was approved without amendments to reduce density or to make it more in line with their policies on affordable housing. Expand Update 7th November 2023 We are disappointed that this proposal was approved by the Lake District National Park Authority’s planning committee on 1st November. This site is allocated for development in the local plan, but we are particularly disappointed that the authority allowed the proposal to go ahead without amendments to reduce the density and make it more closely in line with their strong policies on affordable housing. The reasoning given for this was that despite being allocated in the previous local plan too, no viable proposal has been put forward that would fully meet the policy requiring the first 5 houses on a site to be local occupancy and any beyond that to be affordable. 24th November, 2022 We have responded to proposals for 40 new properties to be built on land off Loughrigg Meadow in Ambleside.Although the site is allocated for development in the Lake District Local Plan, meaning that the principle of housing development here has already been approved, the plans far exceed the c.28 dwellings expected and contain far fewer affordable homes than are required by local planning policy. We are concerned that the high density of the development has resulted in an urban and car-dominated layout that will not reflect the character of Ambleside and that it will impact negatively on views and the adjacent public right of way and Scheduled Monument.Local people have also raised concerns. You can read our response here. See also the Lake District National Park Authority's policy requirements for the site.
Telecoms Mast Applications - is the tide of masts turning? The Government’s drive to speed the roll out of 5G has led to a steady stream of mast applications in the Lake District in recent years. While our communities need good connectivity, the Lake District deserves better than the ill-thought through proposals that have dominated applications submitted for masts so far. Expand Update 31st October 2023 Tide of masts turning??? You may not be surprised to learn, given our recent coverage of the topic, that in the Lake District, there has been an average of more than one telecommunications mast proposal per month this year! We are pleased to report though that it does seem that the message is being heard that whilst our communities need good connectivity, the Lake District deserves better than the ill-thought through proposals that have dominated the applications submitted for masts so far. In fact, none of the last 12 mast proposals we have challenged have been approved on their first iteration. You may also be aware that due to the low level of regard many of the applications have had for landscape character and factors such as appropriate access and impacts on tranquillity, we have felt it necessary to respond to almost all the mast proposals submitted. In most cases we have had to point out multiple shortfalls in the applications, whether that be inaccurate, conflicting or false information, limited consideration of alternative sites or a narrow-in-scope (or completely absent) landscape and visual impact assessment. It is important to point out that in most cases too, members of the community closest to the mast in question have also objected to the mast proposals, along with other organisations, including the National Trust, Parish Councils and Commoners Associations. Often the community has said they are happy with the existing level of connectivity and/or that they feel the harm the mast could do, whether visually, to local character or due to frequent fuel deliveries for example, is not outweighed by the benefits of often limited additional connectivity. The masts are generally proposed in very remote areas, where there are few residents or businesses to benefit. This is because the Government’s roll out of the scheme to ensure almost 100% coverage has already reached most areas and so only the most remote are left. This in turn means that the locations proposed are hardest to access and in particularly sensitive areas tend to be largely free from modern, man-made structures. It also often means that the public benefits are limited to those passing through the area. The area to benefit from coverage as a result of the mast proposed at Caldbeck common recently only had one building in it – a walkers’ hostel. As we have highlighted previously, mast proposals are often planned to be powered by diesel generators (again, because their remote locations would make mains connections tricky) and the impacts of this, including noise and fuel deliveries tend to be ignored or lacking detail in applications. Watch video of a diesel powered telecoms mast at Hartsop. The LDNPA has taken heed of our concerns and our efforts (along with that of others) to challenge inappropriate mast proposals are generating results. Of the 11 most recent mast proposals we have responded to in the Lake District and a twelfth that was in the Cumbria part of the Yorkshire Dales: Four were withdrawn. Two remain live, although we have been made aware of revised plans for one of these in a different, less prominent location. One has been refused and replaced with a shorter monopole design that has now been approved. Five have been refused, one of these is now subject to a revised application in a different, more carefully considered location, another is at appeal, and a third was appealed but the appeal was turned down on landscape grounds – this is really important as it provides case law to show that mast proposals will not simply be waved through because they are part of a Government scheme and that landscape harms will be given significant weight against purported benefits. Another was withdrawn just as we were about to submit our response. We fully expect to see further mast proposals as revised applications come in for those proposals that have been withdrawn or refused, but we really hope that because of strong challenge from the LDNPA, communities, ourselves and other organisations, the tide is beginning to turn. Rather than the ‘copy and paste’ responses we have become used to, we hope that the next round of proposals will be more carefully thought through, with more detailed consideration of alternatives and impacts, including those relating to access and power supply. It remains the case that technological advances that are already taking place may reduce or avoid the need for masts in the near future and we’d still urge for rural areas, and protected landscapes in particular to be prioritised in making use of these in order to minimise landscape harm whilst ensuring rural homes, businesses and visitors have the connectivity they need. But in the meantime, we’re pleased to have played a part in the progress made so far in ensuring the Lake District’s landscapes are properly taken into account when telecommunications masts are planned. Update 28th July 2023 Yet More Masts! With no fewer than 5 mast proposals appearing on our list of applications to look at in July, we continue to be concerned by the influx of proposals for new telecommunications masts. Whilst connectivity in rural areas is important, many of the applications we have seen lack information about the benefits of a mast being located in a particular place, about how the proposed site has been selected and how landscape and other impacts have been taken into account. For example, many are to be powered by diesel generators and/or are proposed in areas that are currently almost entirely free of modern man-made structures. There also appears to be a disregard for any consideration of the alternatives provided by advancing technology, such as satellites, and whether that might leave dozens of obsolete masts in the not-too-distant future. Recent proposals include a 15m mast at Martindale (7/2023/3095), a 30m mast at Patterdale (7/2023/3090) and a 35m mast at Ennerdale (7/2023/4056). You can view the details of each application by searching using the corresponding reference number here. A proposal for a 20m mast at Bampton (7/2023/3086) has been withdrawn (August 2023). A proposal for a 25m mast on Birker Fell (7/2023/4053) has been refused (August 2023). Update 5th April 2023 Buttermere Mast refusedWe are pleased to report that the proposed mast at Buttermere, which met with significant objection for local people, visitors to the area, the National Trust and us at Friends of the Lake District, was refused this week on grounds of landscape and visual impact. This is in addition to the refusal of a mast at Rusland last week. Whilst we recognise the need for improved connectivity, this must be achieved in ways that also conserve and enhance the National Park’s special landscapes. More masts! As expected, yet more proposals for new telecommunications mast have been submitted. The latest is a 50m mast proposed close to Wythburn Church, Thirlmere. You can find out more about this application by searching for 7/2023/2016 here. A proposal for a mast in the Rusland was recently turned down on landscape grounds and we await decisions on masts proposed at Langdale and Haweswater. 21st February 2023 There has been a steady stream of mast applications in the Lake District and elsewhere in Cumbria, including in the Yorkshire Dales, in recent years, however, the Government’s drive to speed the roll out of 5G and eliminate ‘not spots’ or partial ‘not spots’ – rural areas with limited or no mobile coverage – means that many more mast proposals are expected. Indeed, there are currently at least three planning applications for new 25m and 30m masts in the Lake District National Park. These are at Haweswater (7/2022/3167), Langdale (7/2022/5804) and Buttermere (7/2022/2312). You can view the details of each application by searching using the corresponding reference number here WPHAPPCRITERIA (lakedistrict.gov.uk) We have received a number of emails from concerned members and local residents about the siting of these and will be responding to these applications over the coming weeks. 3rd February 2023 Read our responses to: Haweswater mast proposal (pdf): 7/2022/3167 Installation of a 30m communications mast, EAS and SRN antennas, ground-based apparatus and ancillary development, Land at Lad Crags, Haweswater Reservoir CA10 2RP the Haweswater mast proposal (7/2022/2312) Great Langdale mast proposal (pdf): 7/2022/5804 Installation of 30m communications mast, antennas, ground-based apparatus and ancillary development, Land near Great Langdale Campsite, Side Gates Road, Great Langdale, LA22 9JU 31st January 2023 Read our response to the Buttermere mast proposal (pdf): 7/2022/2312 Installation of 25m communications mast, antennas, ground-based apparatus and ancillary development, Gatesgarth Farm, Buttermere, Cockermouth, CA13 9XA 24th January 2023 We recognise that it is essential for rural communities to secure levels of digital connectivity such as fast broadband and good mobile ‘phone signals to support both work and leisure. Such technology not only helps to ensure that our rural communities remain vital and viable into the future but also supports the emergency services, including Mountain Rescue, to operate effectively wherever they are needed. However, these needs must be balanced with conserving and enhancing the landscape and heritage assets for their own sake and for the essential provisions they provide, including the health and well-being benefits we derive from the peace, tranquillity and beauty of our surroundings. This is especially important in our protected landscapes and their settings. We want to see that whenever possible, existing masts are shared by mobile ‘phone operators rather than putting up new masts, that a range of sites are thoroughly assessed when considering new sites to ensure the most appropriate and least harmful site is selected, and that infrastructure is removed when no longer needed. We also want to see all the impacts of new masts properly addressed, such as how access and power supplies to remote mast sites is provided. Satellite technology to provide coverage is also moving on apace, so this too needs to be considered as an alternative to the prospect of multiple new masts in our National Parks.
Holiday lets and marina plans approved for former water testing laboratory A re-submitted proposal to redevelop Pearsall House, on Windermere, as a hotel and holiday lets, has been approved, subject to further information being received from United Utilities. This is very disappointing, as we argued that the building should, in accordance with planning policy, be used for local housing as a priority. Expand Update 5th October 2023 Pearsall House Update Alongside local residents, we spoke at the Lake District National Park Association’s planning committee on 4th October against a re-submitted proposal to redevelop Pearsall House, the former Freshwater Biological Association HQ on the western shore of Windermere. Disappointingly, our challenge that the new proposal still amounted to holiday lets, not a hotel as claimed, and that therefore the building should, in accordance with planning policy, be used for local housing as a priority, was not taken on board. The proposal will now be approved subject to further information being received from United Utilities. Update 22nd February 2023 We are pleased to report that following substantial objection from Friends of the Lake District, along with a range of local residents, visitors to the area and other concerned organisations, this application has now been withdrawn.It is unlikely we’ll be informed as to the specific reasons for the withdrawal, and depending on the reasons, it is possible the proposal may return in a slightly altered form. For now though, it is great news that this proposal, which was in conflict with several local plan policies and would have been a significant development for the quieter western shore of Windermere, will not go ahead. 1st December 2022 Following inspection of the plans and discussions and a site visit with concerned local residents, we have now submitted our response to the proposal to convert and develop Pearsall House, the former Freshwater Biological Association HQ on the quieter western shore of Windermere, for holiday letting, along with a substantial marina. Many thanks to those of you who got in touch to share your concerns. We sought to incorporate all these in our response. We are heartened to note that many others, including local residents, Cumbria Wildlife Trust, Windermere Lake Cruises and the Royal Windermere Yacht Club and the National Trust have all also submitted objections. Read our response> 28th October 2022 Plans have been submitted for the redevelopment of the former Freshwater Biological Association water testing lab close to the Windermere Car Ferry dock, Claife Viewing Station and Near Sawrey. The proposal involves 14 new ‘leisure residential’ units (or holiday apartments) along with a small outdoor pool, a new single dwelling and a new two-jetty marina. We are still reviewing the plans but do have some initial thoughts and concerns. For example, there is potential for negative impacts on the character of the quieter western shore of Windermere and although this is a brownfield site, holiday accommodation may not be the most appropriate re-use. It will also be important to consider the proposal in the context of increasing concerns about the water quality of Windermere and the factors contributing to this issue. You can view the proposals by searching using planning reference 7/2022/5624 on this webpage We would very much welcome your views on the proposal: [email protected] The FBA has already vacated the site and are now based at Lakeside, Newby Bridge.
Temporary camp site rules relaxed We were very disappointed to learn in July that nationally set ‘permitted development rights’ for temporary campsites have been extended on a permanent basis from 28 to 60 days, including in protected landscapes. Expand Update 28th July 2023 Temporary camp site rules relaxed We were very disappointed to learn in July that nationally set ‘permitted development rights’ for temporary campsites have been extended on a permanent basis from 28 to 60 days, including in protected landscapes. This follows a Government consultation on the proposals earlier in the year, in which we and others, such as the Campaign for National Parks, cited a number of concerns about extending the rights. Whilst it appears operators will need to notify the local authority of their plans, it is very concerning that whereas the consultation sought views on a proposed maximum of 30 tent pitches per site to be subject to this new right, the Government has chosen to allow up to 50 pitches for tents or campervans along with any movable structure reasonably necessary to support such use, such as toilets. We recommended that protected landscapes and other designations be excluded from the proposals and highlighted that in some cases, even 30 pitches could be inappropriate, but these pleas have been ignored and the new right will apply across all National Parks, AONBs and other designations, with only a few exceptions. This extension of rights could have a significant impact on the landscape and is directly at odds with the recent decision by a Government-appointed Inspector to refuse permission for a seasonal permanent campsite in the Newlands valley on landscape grounds. Update 3 May 2023 Relaxing Planning Rules for Campsites and Renewable Energy We have responded to a recent Government consultation asking for views on proposals to extend the period that temporary campsites can operate without requiring planning permission to up to 60 days for campsites of up to 30 tents. The same consultation also sought views on relaxing rules relating to domestic and non-domestic solar energy installations. These are important issues for the landscape and for increasing the proportion of energy from renewable resources. We recommended that protected landscapes should be exempted from the relaxing of the rules relating to camp sites. We broadly supported measures to make it easier for solar to be installed, particularly on non-domestic properties and solar canopies, while seeking reassurance that careful consideration will still be given to impacts on landscape and heritage. Read our response (pdf) You can find out more here
Redevelopment of Brandlehow Cottage refused We were pleased to learn that on 4th May, the Lake District National Park Authority’s Development Control Committee refused plans for the redevelopment of Brandlehow Cottage on the shores of Derwentwater. Expand Update 5th May 2023 We were pleased to learn that on 4th May, the Lake District National Park Authority’s Development Control Committee refused plans for the redevelopment of Brandlehow Cottage on the shores of Derwentwater. They agreed with the officer’s recommendation that the proposal should be refused on grounds of landscape and heritage impacts as well as insufficient information to determine the impact of potential contamination from the former mine workings on Derwentwater itself, which is a Special Area of Conservation. This reflects the concerns raised by us and by around 300 other objectors to the proposal.Investigations into the heritage impacts found that not only is the cottage the only remaining roofed building connected to the Brandelhow mine it may be the only building left linked to one of the Elizabethan mineral mines in the Lake District. 19th December 2022 We have now submitted our response to this application. Read it here> November 2022 Proposals have been submitted to the Lake District National Park Authority for the redevelopment of Brandlehow Cottage on the south western shores of Derwentwater, near Catbells (pictured). The plans would see the existing traditional property demolished and replaced with a very different and larger structure. The site is very close to a popular public footpath and many people have already objected to the plans, concerned about the loss of the historic property itself but also impacts on views and the character of the area, access, wildlife, the mining heritage and the implications for the popular ‘Teddy in the Window’ nearby. We will be objecting to this application. You can view the plans by searching for reference 7/2022/2263 on the Lake District National Park's planning webpage. We've provided a short guide on where to view current planning applications and how to comment in order to have your views heard. Read it here> It’s always best to respond in your own words, rather than following a template or signing a copied letter. You do not need to be a local resident to comment. If you are objecting to a proposal, it is important to explain why you think the proposal conflicts with the relevant local planning policies, as it is compliance or otherwise with these that will determine the Lake District National Park Authority’s decision. The policies most relevant to this case are policies 01, 02 (including the final sentence), 04, 05, 06, 07, 24. We also think there is a case for policy 26 also applying. You can find the Lake District local plan policies here> You may wish to comment on: Impact on landscape character The design of the proposals and how this relates to local character Impact on views, including views from the lake, and the visual amenity of people using the area recreationally Impact on Rights of Way and their users Impact on the experience of the area and the ‘sense of place’ Impact on the reasons for which the Lake District was designated a World Heritage Site (the attributes of Outstanding Universal Value – OUVs) Impact on the heritage of the area Impact on wildlife and the lake You do not need to comment on every aspect – focus on the aspect(s) most important to you. Submitting A Response Email Address: [email protected] Email Subject text: Response to planning application 7/2022/2263 Demolition and replacement of existing dilapidated cottage with a replacement house Email Body text: If you are objecting to this planning proposal, begin the body of your submission with: I/we object to the plans to demolish and replace Brandlehow Cottage’. Follow this with a summary of your objections written in your own words. We’ve been on a site visit to walk the area around Brandlehow Cottage and were delighted to share the walk with Kerry, Paddy and Harry of ‘Max Out in the Lake District’! Kerry recorded our visit so do follow the link to see the site and to listen to the conversation we had about this proposal. Watch below or via Facebook (links to external website)>
New planning restrictions for holiday lets? The Government is asking for views on a proposed new restriction that would require people to get planning consent in order to use a property as a short-term holiday let. Expand The Government is asking for views on a proposed new restriction that would require people to get planning consent in order to use a property as a short-term holiday let. We will be examining the proposals and responding to this consultation before the deadline of 7th June. We support the proposal in principle, but careful consideration will need to be given to the detail of how the proposal is to be applied, to ensure it is appropriate for Cumbria and the Lake District. You can find out more about the consultation here: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/introduction-of-a-use-class-for-short-term-lets-and-associated-permitted-development-rights
Yorkshire Dales seeks views on new housing sites and open spaces The Yorkshire Dales National Park authority has launched a consultation running until 12th May seeking views on sites they propose to allocate for future housing development and protect as open space. Expand The Yorkshire Dales National Park authority has launched a consultation running until 12th May seeking views on sites they propose to allocate for future housing development and protect as open space. This is part of the preparation of the Yorkshire Dales National Park local plan. It’s really important to raise any concerns at this stage as once sites are allocated, they effectively have ‘permission in principle’. Find out more about which sites are proposed and how to comment here. You may also find it useful to read our short introduction to local plan documents.
New proposal for car park at Ullock Moss This application had been due to go to the Planning Committee in early March 2023 but has now been withdrawn. The Applicant has, however, issued a withdrawal statement indicating that they plan to submit another application which you can read here Expand 27th February 2023 This application had been due to go to the Planning Committee next week but has now been withdrawn. The Applicant has, however, issued a withdrawal statement indicating that they plan to submit another application. Applicant Withdrawal Statement (pdf) 3rd January 2023 - Car park déjà vu! A new application has been made for plans for a car park at Ullock Moss, Portinscale. The proposal is almost identical to one refused by the Lake District National Park Authority a year ago and we have responded to the National Park Authority, letting them know that the reasons for the previous refusal still stand and our position remains unaltered. For example, local plan policy requires that all other relevant regulatory and enforcement measures be exhausted before new car parks will be allowed in such locations, however, this has not happened. You can read our response here> We urge everyone who challenged the plans last time to join us in resubmitting previous comments – comments should ideally be submitted to the Lake District National Park Authority by 20th January 2023, quoting application reference 7/2022/2279. (The best way to make your voice heard is to write to the relevant planning authority to let them know your views on a planning application. We've provided some additional advice on how to respond and comment on applications to make your voice heard>) Update 25 November 2022 New proposal for car park at Ullock Moss (near Catbells)You may remember that a controversial planning application for a significant new car park in woodland at Ullock Moss, near Portinscale, Keswick, was refused by the Lake District National Park Authority just under a year ago.An enforcement case followed, but a new, very similar application has now been submitted. We will be looking at this over the coming weeks and are likely to make a response. However, as there is limited change, it may be unnecessary for responses made previously to be re-written from scratch. We know many of you shared our concerns in relation to the previous proposal and sent in your own comments. If the minor changes do not alter your view, we would recommend re-sending your previous comments with a brief cover note to make this clear.View the new application by searching for reference 7/2022/2279 on here> Update 17 August 2022 Planning Enforcement at Ullock Moss Car ParkWe are pleased that enforcement action has been taken by the Lake District National Park Authority on works undertaken to create temporary car park at Ullock Moss near Portinscale, but the applicant has appealed against this.Many of you joined us in challenging plans for a permanent car park there, which were refused last year. Although temporary use of land for car parks is allowed for up to 28 days under national ‘permitted development’ rights, this is only when certain conditions and criteria are met. In this case works have been carried out to create the temporary car park that went beyond what is allowed. We will be supporting the LDNPA in upholding the enforcement case. 1 December 2021 We are very pleased that the Lake District National Park’s Planning Committee has refused plans today for the proposed 150-space car park at Ullock Moss, near Catbells, by 7 votes to 2. We spoke against the plans at the Committee meeting today, along with a representative from the local community. Members of the committee discussed a range of issues in coming to their decision - including the likelihood of attracting more cars, and impacts on landscape, the World Heritage Site and biodiversity. There was clear concern about whether the car park would really provide a solution and also about whether the criteria for allowing an exception to planning policy by allowing a new car park in open countryside were met. One member listed the various organisations that had objected, including Friends of the Lake District, and indicated that given there were so many with shared views, these organisations should be listened to. Another mentioned that in light of COP26 and the climate emergency it is time do something different in terms of finding solutions to parking and traffic issues. We thank all those who added their voice and support to our campaign to challenge the car park. We hope that this decision, along with two other decisions made in November to refuse proposals for new car parks, will provide the impetus to bring forward a range of positive, sustainable alternative and integrated travel options for National park visitors and residents alike. 3rd November 2021 A Development Control Committee meeting took place on Wednesday 3rd November where it was decided that the Ullock Moss Car Park application would be deferred to enable the Committee to carry out a site visit before coming to its decision. We welcomed the decision at the meeting by the Lake District National Park Authority to refuse two other proposals to extend the time period of two temporary car parks. Applications for new car parks at Waterfoot (next to Ullswater) and Lands Field (Coniston) were refused, due to concerns about impact on the landscape, conflicts with recently adopted planning policies, and the potential precedent for more similar proposals for car parks elsewhere in the national park. 29th October 2021 A Statement by Friends of the Lake District, with Campaign for National Parks, National Trust, Cumbria Wildlife Trust, Woodland Trust, West Cumbria Bus Users and West Cumbria Friends of the Earth. Friends of the Lake District and other leading environmental organisations are very concerned by the recommendation to approve the proposed 150-space car park at Ullock Moss near Catbells. This development would set a precedent that would have a major bearing on the wider future of the Lake District, what it will look like and what it will become – and other National Parks - and we urge the Lake District National Park Authority’s (LDNPA) Development Control Committee to reject this proposal. Whilst we very much recognise the need to address ongoing and growing issues relating to parking and vehicle numbers in the Portinscale and Catbells area, this proposal is not an appropriate solution. We agree with Campaign for National Parks and the National Trust that the plan raises fundamental policy conflicts in regard to development in the open countryside and the development of new car parks. Local planning policy calls for a ‘coordinated and strategic approach’ to decision making about transport. This proposal directly conflicts with this sentiment and is not part of an integrated plan that will enable sustainable travel. We also share the views of groups such as West Cumbria Bus Users and West Cumbria Friends of the Earth that it undermines the LDNPA’s own target to reduce, as a minimum, the % visitors arriving by car from 83% to 64% and to secure a modal shift towards more sustainable transport in the Park. Instead it will increase traffic to the area, harm the landscape and conflict with the Park’s own climate and ecological commitments. Lorayne Wall, Planning Officer, Friends of the Lake District said: “Allowing a new car park in this location threatens to set back plans for sustainable travel and a low-carbon Lake District before they even get started. We are simply asking that the Park adheres to its own plans and policies and implements them.” The Campaign for National Parks has raised concerns that allowing a permanent car park in this location will make it harder to persuade people to use alternatives to the car in future and will set a dangerous precedent. Ruth Bradshaw, Policy and Research Manager for Campaign for National Parks, said: "Campaign for National Parks remains strongly opposed to plans for a new car park in open countryside in an already very popular area. Allowing a new car park here will facilitate yet more car use and will do nothing to encourage more sustainable travel. It is in direct conflict with the National Park Authority's ambitions to reduce car use to help meet its net zero target. It also sets a dangerous precedent for other similar developments both elsewhere in the Lake District and in other National Parks. Given the urgency of the nature and climate emergencies, it is even more essential than ever that National Park Authority members consider the longer-term impacts of the decisions they make." Notwithstanding the wider implications, Friends of the Lake District also shares the concerns of Cumbria Wildlife Trust and the Woodland Trust about the immediate area. There would be significant harm to the area’s hydrology and to woodland that is of high ecological value and home to priority species protected under the NERC Act. The obligation for the applicant to demonstrate that their proposals would not adversely impact ancient woodland through increased pollution has not been met. With the decision on 3rd November coinciding with the UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26), it is an opportunity for the LDNPA to demonstrate its conviction in tackling climate change in line with the recent comments of its own Chief Executive: *“Our knowledge and expertise mean we are uniquely placed to lead on addressing the climate crisis….National Parks [are] at the centre of reducing emissions…and delivering ecological resilience. *“If we can inspire even a small percentage of our visitors to think about some of their lifestyle choices while they are enjoying the benefits of being in our amazing landscape it will make a difference”. The LDNPA’s own targets and ambitions in reducing car travel, in tackling climate change and in ecological recovery are laudable, but this proposal clearly conflicts with these. We therefore urge the Park’s Development Control Committee to support this ambition and refuse this application. *Press Release: UK’s 15 National Parks Release Joint Statement on Climate Change in lead up to COP 26 - National Parks 22nd October 2021 Like many people, we fully recognise the ongoing and growing issues relating to parking and vehicle numbers in the Portinscale and Catbells area, and the need to address these. While a new car park might seem the obvious response to parking problems, the proposed 150-space car park for Cat Bells at Ullock Moss, south of Portinscale, near Keswick, is not an appropriate solution for a number of reasons. Our key concerns are: The Lake District National Park Authority’s (LDNPA) own clearly stated vision for sustainable transport in the national park hinges on reducing car-based visits and use of more sustainable modes of travel to, from and around the national park. A new car park in open countryside will undermine this plan. The LDNPA’s own very recently adopted planning policies require that new car parks are only permitted when they are a proven and integral part of a strategic plan for sustainable travel in the area and meet certain other criteria. This proposal is not part of a strategic plan and does not meet the other criteria. The proposal will necessitate and encourage cars to travel through Portinscale village, exacerbating rather than helping to resolve issues there. The success of the proposal is reliant on some measures being agreed and implemented by other parties and there is no guarantee of this. A new car park and shuttle bus terminus would not conserve and enhance the character and special qualities and attributes of the National Park and World Heritage Site, including tranquillity, as is required by planning policy and legislation. We set these out in our letter of objection to the plans and many of our members and supporters to did the same. You can read our response here: Ullock Moss response (pdf) 24th May 2021 It’s not too late to join the fight! New policies make it clear that Ullock Moss is not the place for a new car park and that alternative ways of exploring the National Park are what’s really needed. The proposed car park at Ullock Moss near Portinscale could: Undermine hopes of achieving plans for Sustainable Travel and a Low Carbon Lake District Set a dangerous precedent for other temporary car parks across the National Park You’ll find details of the application by searching for application reference number 7/2020/2291 at www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/planning/planning-application-search-tool Many thanks to those of you who have already written to the LDNPA about this case. If you have not written already but are able to do so, we have prepared a template to help you (see below). A huge number of responses have been made to this planning application, and many share our concerns about the proposal, including many local residents of Portinscale itself. Like us, they recognise the need for parking and traffic issues to be addressed in the Cat Bells area, but also see that this proposal is not an appropriate solution. Join us in letting the Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) know that we will support them in standing by their local planning policies and their clearly-stated vision for sustainable travel in, to and from the National Park Help us ensure that this proposal is not allowed to set a precedent for temporary car parks to become permanent Write TO THE LDNPA to help the fight against this proposal. We've created a letter template to help you write your own response (with suggested text to guide you) and then email it to the Lake District National Park Authority. VIEW LETTER TEMPLATE(Template includes instructions on what to write and where to send) This case is not just about whether or not this particular proposal fits certain criteria or not. There is a lot more at stake, because this case could have significant bearing on the wider future of the Lake District, what it will look like and what it will become, as well as impacting directly on important views and habitats. It could undermine hopes of achieving plans for Sustainable Travel and a Low Carbon Lake District It could set a dangerous precedent for other temporary car parks allowed across the Park as emergency measures during 2020 to become permanent There are specific solutions for this area that are already set out by the LDNPA as part of a wider Smarter Travel plan for the whole of the National Park. This is the plan that should be implemented instead of developing new car parks. Comments on the proposal should be made to the Lake District National Park Authority by 25th June 2021. Responses submitted shortly after that will still be accepted up until the decision is made (currently expected to be 7th July 2021). We would be grateful if you would also consider copying us into your reply by copying our planning officer [email protected] into emailed submissions. Your comments will help to inform our own position on these issues. You'll find more background information in the planning section of our website, including details of our comment to date and a copy of a press release sent to highlight this issue. 4th February 2021 Like many people, we fully recognise the ongoing and growing issues relating to parking and vehicle numbers in the Portinscale and Catbells area, and the need to address these. While a new car park might seem the obvious response to parking problems, the proposed 150-space car park for Cat Bells at Ullock Moss, south of Portinscale, near Keswick, is not an appropriate solution for a number of reasons. Key reasons we have taken this approach are: The Lake District National Park Authority’s (LDNPA) own clearly stated vision for sustainable transport in the national park hinges on reducing car-based visits and use of more sustainable modes of travel to, from and around the national park. A new car park in open countryside will undermine this plan. The LDNPA’s own planning policies (current and proposed) require that new car parks are only permitted when they are a proven and integral part of a strategic plan for sustainable travel in the area and meet certain other criteria. This proposal is not part of a strategic plan and does not meet the other criteria. The proposal will necessitate and encourage cars to travel through Portinscale village, exacerbating rather than helping to resolve issues there. The proposal is reliant on some measures being agreed and implemented by other parties and there is no assurance of this. A new car park and shuttle bus terminus would not conserve and enhance the character and special qualities and attributes of the National Park and World Heritage Site, including tranquillity, as is required by planning policy and legislation. We have set these out in our letter of objection to the plans and urge our members and supporters to do the same. You can read it here: Ullock Moss response (pdf) Give your viewThe earliest date a decision will be made is 5th May. Although the official deadline for comments on the application was 5th March, responses will be accepted until a decision is made, so there is still time if you wish to respond. Please quote application reference number 7/2020/2291. More instructions for commenting on planning proposals are available here. 20th January 2021 Before Christmas a planning application was submitted to the Lake District National Park for a new car park at Ullock Moss, south of Portinscale, close to Catbells. The area had been used for temporary parking last summer. The applicants had carried out some pre-application consultation at the time and we made our concerns clear at the time which can be seen in our initial response.Members and supporters may wish to look at and comment on the application. Comments can be accepted up until the 5th March. The application can be viewed on the Park Authority website.Follow this link and enter planning reference number 7/2020/2291 in the search box to view the latest information for this proposal on the Park Authority website. 29th July 2020 We have today submitted a written response to the consultation Ullock Moss, Portinscale Car Park. We very much welcome the principle of managing the situation around access to Catbells and in principle may support the idea of park and ride type proposals. However, we think there are a number of issues around this particular location. Read our full response here> 29th June 2020 A pre application consultation is being carried out by Crosby Granger Architects for a proposed car park at Ullock Moss, Portinscale. We think the proposal raises concerns around the principle of a car park at this location, how this fits with planning policy and potential landscape impacts upon the site and its surroundings. We will be looking carefully at the proposal and responding accordingly. The link below provides information on the proposal and a link to survey monkey for your views. The consultation runs until 31 July. https://www.crosbygrangerarchitects.co.uk/ullockmoss/ Banner image by: Ian Brown
Revisions to National Planning Policy Framework Consultation begun in December 2022 on updates to the National Planning Policy Framework and the Government’s proposed approach to preparing new National Development Management Policies Expand 23rd January 2023 Consultation begun in December 2022 on updates to the National Planning Policy Framework and the Government’s proposed approach to preparing new National Development Management Policies. The consultation runs until 2nd March 2023 and we will be working closely with CPRE and others to prepare a response. This is an important opportunity to help ensure that national policies better protect our landscapes. More details can be found here: Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill: reforms to national planning policy - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) 24th May 2022 The process of revising the National Planning Policy Framework is ongoing. The revisions were previously expected to be part of a wider overhaul of the planning system through a dedicated Planning Bill, but The Queen's Speech in May 2022 set out that significantly scaled-back changes will now take place as part of the Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill. You can find out more about this here> The Bill will result in changes to the National Planning Policy Framework as well as new regulations and we expect public consultations on the detail of these changes and more information as to what they might mea for our landscapes, environment and rural communities over the coming months. 31 March 2021 We recently responded to a consultation on revisions to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and proposals for a new national design code. The proposed changes to the NPPF are relatively few in number, but nevertheless include some important revisions that we very much welcome. We were particularly pleased to see new text requiring development in the setting of protected landscapes to be sensitively located and designed and a new paragraph focusing onthe importance of trees. We also expressed our support for new text to reinforce the need for sustainable patterns of development, environmental enhancements, public access to nature and mitigating climate change as well as new text requiring development to provide a choice of transport options and active travel. We welcome greater recognition of the wildlife and climate change benefits of open space and a proposed requirement for new development to make as much use as possible of natural flood management techniques. We expressed concerns about some of the proposed changes, such as the failure to recognise environmental capacity when deriving local housing targets, the prematurity of some proposals given the outcomes of other related consultations are not yet known. We also suggested some additions to help further strengthen proposed new text and in some cases, to strengthen existing text. We also welcomed the proposed new national design code, which, it is intended, will guide local authorities in creating locally-specific design codes for their area. There is much to be welcomed in the proposed code, but we highlighted the need for it to be relevant to rural as well as urban areas and provided detail on how it could better take into account landscape and light pollution and the protection of dark skies. We also emphasised the level of resources that would be needed to secure genuine and meaningful public engagement in the process of preparing local design codes. You can see our full response here This consultation was part of the Government’s wider review of the planning system and further consultations are expected in due course.
Mast Plans for Barbon We are pleased to report that, the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority shared our concerns and on 2nd December 2022 refused permission for this mast Expand 23rd January 2023 We are pleased to report that, the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority shared our concerns and on 2nd December 2022 refused permission for the mast on the basis of “significant harm to the scenic beauty and intrinsic character of this highly sensitive, remote and undeveloped National Park landscape by reason of the size, design and prominent siting”. 27th October 2022 Members of the community got in touch to express their concerns about a proposed 25m lattice mast on Barbon Low Fell. Following a site visit, we share the views of Friends of the Dales, the Ramblers, the Red Rose Cave and Pothole Club and local residents that the proposal should be rejected. A key factor is the balance between the benefits of a new mast and the visual and landscape impacts. Local people have confirmed that properties in the area are already well provided for by B4RN (Broadband for the Rural North) coverage, whilst on the other hand, the proposal will conflict with the Cumbria Landscape Character Guidance and Toolkit, which specifically refers to telecommunications masts being likely to cause harm in this open, wild, undeveloped landscape. You can read our full response here> Video: Our Planning Officer Lorayne reports on plans for a 25m communications mast near Barbon during a site-visit earlier this week.
Luge Track and Chair Lift Proposal in the Eden Valley We’re supporting concerned members of the local community to challenge a proposal for a luge track, chair lift and associated buildings on Blaze Fell near Armathwaite in the beautiful Eden Valley. Expand Update 31 January 2023: Armathwaite Luge track and chairlift proposal Over 20 documents forming part of the application for a luge track and chair lift near Armathwaite in the Eden Valley have been replaced with revised versions. The revised documents mainly seek to fill information gaps previously present in the planning application, such as in relation to biodiversity, drainage, flood risk and noise levels. The new information does not change our position on the proposals. Still proposed is parking for over 100 cars, a new access road stretching up the hillside and a large, heavily glazed operations building, as well as the luge track and chair lift structures. All on a prominent sandstone ridge in a rural area adjacent open access land and County Wildlife Site. The proposal is in direct conflict with Eden’s local plan policies about development in the open countryside. We would urge anyone who shares our concerns to let Eden District Council know that this new information does not alter the significant impact this proposal will have on the rural character of the landscape or on nearby communities. You can view the plans by searching using reference 21/0783 here https://plansearch.eden.gov.uk/fastweb/ You can express your views by emailing [email protected] Thursday 11th November 2021 'Protect Eden' has created an online petition 'Save Blaze Fell' asking people to sign up and say 'NO to the Luge Development on Blaze Fell'. Click the Change.org link below to view the petition: www.change.org/p/eden-district-council-save-blaze-fell-from-development (link opens in a new tab) Friday 15th October 2021 We have now submitted our response to this application Ref:21/0783 LUGE TRACK, CHAIRLIFT, OPERATIONS BUILDING, CAR-PARKING AND LANDSCAPING, LAND AT BLAZE FELL NORD VUE, ARMATHWAITE PENRITH CA4 9TN We'd like to thank all of you who have taken the time to submit your own comments about this planning application. Details on how to submit comment on this application are available below so please do consider contacting Eden District Council if you would like your voice heard. View / download our full response and our argument setting out why we feel that this application should be refused (pdf).blazefellluge210783Response.pdf Thursday 30th September 2021 Friends of the Lake District is supporting concerned members of the local community to challenge a proposal for a luge track, chair lift and associated buildings on Blaze Fell near Armathwaite in the beautiful Eden Valley. Blaze Fell is part of a sandstone ridge in open countryside and the site is immediately adjacent a County Wildlife Site and open access land. The proposal would have a significant impact on views and the character of the landscape in the area. We’re also concerned about the sustainability of the location – the developer anticipates that 80% of visitors will arrive at the attraction by car. We attended a packed public meeting on Wednesday 29th September, where many questions were asked of the applicants by local residents and Parish Councillors. Whilst we were pleased to hear that there are no plans to operate the site in the hours of darkness, reducing potential light pollution concerns, significant concerns remain about impacts on the local landscape, wildlife, traffic generation and the principle of this sort of development taking place in open countryside, contrary to Eden District Council’s planning policies. We will be submitting our response to the application during the coming weeks. If you’d like to view the application you can do so here by entering reference number 21/0783 and you can comment by emailing Eden District Council on [email protected] (being sure to state the reference number). Your response will carry most weight if you can explain whether you consider the proposal meets relevant local plan policies such as LS1 (‘Other rural areas’ section), EC4 (‘large scale tourism development’ section), ENV1, ENV2, ENV5 and DEV3. The local plan can be found here. If you do comment, we would really appreciate your letting us know that you have done so and what comments you made by emailing [email protected]
West Cumbria Coal Mine Two legal challenges have been lodged against the Michael Gove’s decision to approve the coal mine Expand Update 23rd January 2023 Two legal challenges have been lodged against the Michael Gove’s decision to approve the coal mine. Whitehaven coal mine: Two legal challenges lodged - BBC News Update 8th December 2022 Michael Gove announced on December 7th 2022 that he has backed the view of the independent Inspector that carried out an inquiry into the case and has approved the plans. We are dismayed at this decision. It’s a step backwards rather than progress towards reaching net zero; the reasons for our objection to the mine are set out below. We expect South Lakes Action on Climate Change and other organisations to launch a legal challenge against the decision which would be a step we would wholeheartedly support. FAQs about the proposed Coal Mine Q: The mine is for coking coal to make steel not for power stations generation, so it's OK isn't it?A: We understand that the coal is for coking plants. It still has a huge carbon cost. The total emissions from the mine (420 million tonnes of CO2) will exceed the whole of the UK’s carbon emissions in 2018. You can read more about this here https://www.green-alliance.org.uk/resources/The_case_against_new_coal_mines_in_the_UK.pdf Q: No one has invented a substitute for steel and it has to be made somewhere. The alternative to the Cumbrian mine is imported coking coal or exporting the steel making jobs.A: The steel industry is fast moving away from using coking coal. By the time the coal mine is up and running, Europe’s steel industry (where the 85% of the coal not used in the UK is supposed to go) will be quickly moving away from use of coking coal and towards hydrogen. Steel making using coking coal is old, dirty technology and the steel industry is quickly innovating to ensure they bring their carbon emissions down https://greenallianceblog.org.uk/2021/02/09/why-europe-doesnt-need-cumbrias-coking-coal/ Q: Imported coal will only ADD to carbon emissions as transport will have to be taken into consideration.A: If there were savings from reduced transportation of coal, these would not cancel out or neutralise the emissions from the mine operations. In the context of the UK’s target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and global efforts to keep carbon emissions in line with a scenario compatible with no more than a 1.5*C increase, absolute reductions of emissions are required, rather than balancing off one set of emissions against another. Q: Without this source of coal the future of British steel is threatened. However burning coking coal won't go away to salve our conscience, it will just move to China where environmental protection is less enforced than in Britain, won't it?A: British Steel will only be using 15% maximum of the extracted coal. Using the import/export emissions argument, the 85% of coal exported from the UK will also cause emissions. British Steel is also moving towards lower carbon models of manufacturing, so it’s unlikely that not opening Woodhouse Mine will cause British Steel to collapse. Q: West Cumbria is a deprived area, with high unemployment and low wage jobs. This mine would help reverse that.A: The Local Government Association estimates that there will be nearly 900 jobs created in West Cumbria thanks to the development of green and low carbon technologies such as offshore wind and low carbon energy generation. We need to take a step for the future now rather than putting it off again and leaving the mess for future generations to deal with. Coal used to be one of our backbone industries, when we had fewer alternatives. The world is different now, we know more about how these industries damage the environment, so we need to look for better, cleaner ways of making things. Local Government Association statistics on green jobs in their report “Local green jobs - accelerating a sustainable economic recovery”: https://lginform.local.gov.uk/reports/view/lga-research/estimated-total-number-of-direct-jobs-in-low-carbon-and-renewable-energy-sector Q: The mine would be in Whitehaven, not the Lake District. So why are you objecting?A: Friends of the Lake District covers the whole of Cumbria, and exists to protect the landscape of Cumbria and the Lake District, for the future, for everyone. Q: You're a landscape charity, why are you objecting to this?A: As a charity that campaigns to look after Cumbria and the Lake District, we are very aware of the impact that climate change is having on our landscape and environment. The emissions that this mine will cause will originate from our backyard so to speak. We need to be calling out the danger of climate change to future generations, we need to give them the chance to appreciate the environment of Cumbria and the Lake District. Any process that will increase world carbon emissions this much needs to be opposed. It’s time to force progress on new industrial processes rather than looking back at the old damaging ways of doing things. Update 4th November 2022 Friends of the Lake District along with 24 other environmental charities including CPRE The countryside charity and Cumbria Wildlife Trust, has written to Michael Gove urging him to stop the UK’s first deep coal mine in over 30 years, in Whitehaven, Cumbria. Why we're objecting to the mine: Read a Summary of the main points below, or you can read the full expert proofs of evidence published by South Landland Action on Climate Change's expert witnesses here. Update 3rd November 2022 A decision is now expected December 8th 2022 Update 20th October 2022 A decision is now expected in November 2022 Update 4th October 2021 The Inquiry into the West Cumbria Coal Mine closed in the early hours of Saturday 2nd October 2021. The Inspector has now issued his report to the Secretary of State Michael Gove and his decision is expected by July 2022 Update 6th September 2021 South Lakes Action on Climate Change Publishes its Expert Proofs of Evidence On 31 August, South Lakeland Action on Climate Change (SLACC) published formal challenges to of some of the key points raised in favour of the proposed mine. The documents are quite long and technical, so we've summarised the main points below or you can read the full “Rebuttals” written by SLACC’s expert witnesses at the link: https://slacc.org.uk/the-truth-about-the-coal-mine/We would encourage anybody with an interest in this proposal to get involved. Please do complete Friends of the Earth's survey to let them know your views and do drop in via YouTube to see the inquiry in progress.Summary of South Lakeland Action on Climate Change 'Rebuttals' - Why we're objecting to the mine: The quality of the coking coal (evidence from Professor Stuart Haszeldine) The coal has a much higher sulphur content than is acceptable for use in EU and UK steelworks. This means that around 87% of the coal will be exported outside of the UK and EU which tears up the “reducing the need to ship coal” argument. Any of the coal that is used within the UK and EU will likely need to be mixed with Australian low sulphur coal before it reaches acceptable sulphur levels, meaning that we will be importing coking coal from Australia rather than the US. Again tearing up the shipping agument relating to the climate impact of shipping coal in from abroad. Development of EU steelmaking without needing to use coking coal (evidence from Professor Lars J Nillson) The applicant’s proof of evidence appears to clearly assume that EU and UK legislated climate targets will not be met – this is clearly unacceptable The applicant’s evidence rests on a forecast which assumes the steel sector in the UK and Europe will not follow a two-degree warming pathway which is incompatible with legislated EU and UK emissions The applicant discounts much of the work going on in Europe to develop non-coking coal methods of creating steel and therefore grossly overestimates the amount of coking coal that will be necessary after 2030 Steel production in the EU has been declining since 2007, but the applicant’s proof of evidence posits an annual growth of 0.5% in EU steelmaking. This is a highly unlikely figure Carbon Capture and Storage is expensive and not very efficient. It adds about 30% cost to steel production using coal. As this is the case, EU steel-making is more likely to look to invest in modern lower carbon technology such as hydrogen based production. The “perfect substitution” argument (evidence from Professor Paul Ekins) the perfect substitution argument is contrary to the way in which modern markets operate: the Woodhouse mine will not “displace US mines with higher emissions” and therefore lead to a reduction in global GHG emissions. The US mines will simply sell their product elsewhere if the WCM mine opens, such that the total global level of GHG emissions will be increased, not reduced, by the opening of the mine. If, as a result of this mine being granted permissions, the UK is required to import low-sulphur coal from Australia to blend with their new domestic product, then Mr Truman’s case appears to be that the UK is effectively switching from the import of US coal to the import of Australian coal. (The analysis for Europe is the same). Even if there was already some existing import of Australian coal, the lower quality (as against US HVA coal) of the WCM coal would presumably require a higher amount of Australian coal. At best for WCM, this means there is no justification at all for making any claim that there will be net transport GHG savings. Inhibiting the transfer to low-carbon steel technology (evidence from Professor Paul Ekins) Steel makers are already looking to make the transition to lower-carbon methods of production in order to ensure that their business will remain viable within legislated climate targets, because they are aware that prices on carbon emissions are very likely to rise significantly over the coming decades, and because they see an emerging market for “green steel” and the opportunity to establish market share globally selling it. The availability of cheap coking coal, given the broadly comparable capital investments being considered might well influence steel makers away from the H-DRI technologies that are currently being demonstrated in the EU. The jobs argument (evidence from Rebekah Diski, Senior Researcher at the New Economics Foundation) Mr Kirkbride asserts that the project will create “up to” 532 permanent staff positions. However the applicant provided no clear methodology for how these employment numbers were ascertained and there is no independent verification of these figures, merely an assertion in the WCM documentation. Any apprenticeships offered are in the context of a development necessarily limited to 2049 for a technology rendered redundant because of climate change legislation. It is therefore difficult to see how such apprenticeships offer any meaningful long-term benefit to local young people, leaving them stranded in terms of future employment prospects. It’s the equivalent of offering apprenticeships in asbestos-based building techniques. Rather than committing to offering a high level of local jobs, this target is not actually set, but is something to “aim at” on the basis of what is commercially convenient. There will be no penalties if WCM fails to reach this target. Local skills shortages mean that WCM would need to employ a significant number of non-local staff and likely look beyond the UK for appropriately skilled mine workers. Only 3% of the respondents to WCM’s local labour survey would be realistically capable of working at the mine. One of the key obstacles to meeting Cumbria’s climate targets is appropriate investment in green skills (e.g. heat pump installers, insulation retrofitters, builders with low carbon construction skills etc). Clearly, the development of skills in the local area in respect of a project with a lifetime shorter than the average career (if the mine is operational 2024-49) which could otherwise be focussed on alternative low-carbon jobs will only intensify the local green skills shortage and also leave those employed by the mine without relevant skills for a net zero carbon economy. Update 29th April 2021: Whitehaven Coal Mine, final chance to have your say. The application for a coal mine at Whitehaven will be decided at a Public Inquiry in September this year. There is a final opportunity for members of the public to send in a representation to the Planning Inspector by May 6th next week. You can also ask to speak at the Inquiry. Read on for details of our concerns about the project and for how to send your comments to the inspector. You can send your comments to the Planning Inspector or register to speak even if you didn’t respond to the original planning application. Friends of the Lake District has written to the Planning Inspector reiterating our objections to the plans for the coal mine near Whitehaven. Our concerns about the mine can be summarised as follows: It is not in the public interest as it prioritises a small number of investors and employees above the international climate crisis and environmental damage; It contradicts local, national and international climate change commitments; It increases the risk that local, national and international greenhouse gas emissions targets will not be met; It will exacerbate local, national and international climate change impacts (including impacts upon the Lake District National Park and the English Lake District World Heritage Site and their settings); It will severely compromise Cumbria’s chances of securing a sustainable economic future and fulfilling its potential as a leader in the green revolution, It will lock West Cumbria into a short-term boom-and-bust cycle over a period of 25 years at the most, saddling communities with outdated high-carbon industrial infrastructure and skillsets and limited prospects to participate in the green revolution and a net zero carbon economy. It is not in the interests of the common good for development of this mine to go ahead. It is unsustainable in the true meaning of the word in that it will leave the world a worse place for future generations. Friends of the Lake District firmly believes that the environment and therefore the wider public interest is not served by this development. You can read our letter to the Planning Inspector here Friends of the Earth have put together a helpful information sheet on how to go about sending a representation to the Inspector and also how to register to speak at the Planning Inquiry. You can find the information sheet here, it contains some more information about the proposed development along with links to the original planning documents, Lord Deben’s letter on behalf of the Climate Change Committee and the email address/postal address to send your comments to. Update 16th March 2021: Coal Mine to go to public inquiry The Government has finally stepped in to review the decision to open a new coal mine in Cumbria. On Friday, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Robert Jenrick informed Cumbria County Council that he will ‘call in’ the proposed planning application for the mine – the approval of which would have significantly increased greenhouse gas emissions. This is exactly what we’ve been campaigning for, and is a huge step towards the coal mine being scrapped for good. A Public Inquiry will now be held by an independent Planning Inspector to assess the evidence around climate change, something which has been hard for Cumbria County Council to do objectively due to pressure from local politicians and interest groups. Public pressure has paid off once again. In his letter to the Council, Robert Jenrick stated that he was intervening, in part, because of controversy surrounding the mine. Together with other local and national organisations, we spoke up and our collective voice could not be ignored. Read the government's letter about calling in the coal mine decision here Update 10th February 2021 Friends of the Lake District welcomes Cumbria County Council’s decision to rethink the Whitehaven coal mine Commenting on Cumbria County Council’s decision to reconsider their earlier decision to approve the Whitehaven coal mine, Douglas Chalmers said: “The increase in carbon emissions from this mine alone would amount to more emissions than the Climate Change Committee has projected for all open UK coal mines up to 2050. A new mine jeopardises the UK’s goals of phasing out coal by 2035, and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, as well as undermining the UK’s COP26 Climate Change Conference Presidency and international credibility. We do not need the mine, 85% of the coal to be produced is for export. “The County Council has the chance to show real leadership in the fight against climate change by recognising Cumbria’s potential to be at the heart of a Green Industrial Revolution. Mining jobs have a fixed timespan. Instead, there is the potential to create jobs that will be sustainable into the future by maximising Cumbria’s significant renewable energy resources and innovating sustainable alternatives to traditional manufacturing processes. Then we could all look forward to the future Cumbria deserves rather than regretting a missed opportunity.” FAQs about the proposed Coal Mine Q: The mine is for coking coal to make steel not for power stations generation, so it's OK isn't it?A: We understand that the coal is for coking plants. It still has a huge carbon cost. The total emissions from the mine (420 million tonnes of CO2) will exceed the whole of the UK’s carbon emissions in 2018. You can read more about this here https://www.green-alliance.org.uk/resources/The_case_against_new_coal_mines_in_the_UK.pdf Q: No one has invented a substitute for steel and it has to be made somewhere. The alternative to the Cumbrian mine is imported coking coal or exporting the steel making jobs.A: The steel industry is fast moving away from using coking coal. By the time the coal mine is up and running, Europe’s steel industry (where the 85% of the coal not used in the UK is supposed to go) will be quickly moving away from use of coking coal and towards hydrogen. Steel making using coking coal is old, dirty technology and the steel industry is quickly innovating to ensure they bring their carbon emissions down https://greenallianceblog.org.uk/2021/02/09/why-europe-doesnt-need-cumbrias-coking-coal/ Q: Imported coal will only ADD to carbon emissions as transport will have to be taken into consideration.A: If there were savings from reduced transportation of coal, these would not cancel out or neutralise the emissions from the mine operations. In the context of the UK’s target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and global efforts to keep carbon emissions in line with a scenario compatible with no more than a 1.5*C increase, absolute reductions of emissions are required, rather than balancing off one set of emissions against another. Q: Without this source of coal the future of British steel is threatened. However burning coking coal won't go away to salve our conscience, it will just move to China where environmental protection is less enforced than in Britain, won't it?A: British Steel will only be using 15% maximum of the extracted coal. Using the import/export emissions argument, the 85% of coal exported from the UK will also cause emissions. British Steel is also moving towards lower carbon models of manufacturing, so it’s unlikely that not opening Woodhouse Mine will cause British Steel to collapse. Q: West Cumbria is a deprived area, with high unemployment and low wage jobs. This mine would help reverse that.A: The Local Government Association estimates that there will be nearly 900 jobs created in West Cumbria thanks to the development of green and low carbon technologies such as offshore wind and low carbon energy generation. We need to take a step for the future now rather than putting it off again and leaving the mess for future generations to deal with. Coal used to be one of our backbone industries, when we had fewer alternatives. The world is different now, we know more about how these industries damage the environment, so we need to look for better, cleaner ways of making things. Local Government Association statistics on green jobs in their report “Local green jobs - accelerating a sustainable economic recovery”: https://lginform.local.gov.uk/reports/view/lga-research/estimated-total-number-of-direct-jobs-in-low-carbon-and-renewable-energy-sector Q: The mine would be in Whitehaven, not the Lake District. So why are you objecting?A: Friends of the Lake District covers the whole of Cumbria, and exists to protect the landscape of Cumbria and the Lake District, for the future, for everyone. Q: You're a landscape charity, why are you objecting to this?A: As a charity that campaigns to look after Cumbria and the Lake District, we are very aware of the impact that climate change is having on our landscape and environment. The emissions that this mine will cause will originate from our backyard so to speak. We need to be calling out the danger of climate change to future generations, we need to give them the chance to appreciate the environment of Cumbria and the Lake District. Any process that will increase world carbon emissions this much needs to be opposed. It’s time to force progress on new industrial processes rather than looking back at the old damaging ways of doing things. Update 4th February 2021 Friends of the Lake District signs letter to the Prime Minister protesting the new Cumbria coal mine decision We have joined with 79 other concerned groups and written to the Prime Minister questioning why Robert Jenrick decided not to put the proposed Whitehaven Mine in west Cumbria through a Planning Inquiry process. Read more: Friends of the Lake District signs letter to the Prime Minister protesting the new Cumbria coal mine decision Read the full letter to the Prime Minister about the Cumbria Coal Mine here. 11th January 2021 We were very disappointed to hear on Friday that the Government has decided not to call in Cumbria County Council's decision to allow a new coal mine to be built near Whitehaven. We agree with Friends of the Earth and the World Wide Fund for Nature and others that this is the wrong decision in the face of climate emergency. Read more: Jenrick criticised over decision not to block new Cumbria coal mine 16th October 2020 We, along with several other organisations including the World Wide Fund for Nature, have written to the Secretary of State requesting that he ‘call in’, or reconsider, Cumbria County Council's decision to approve a new coal mine near Whitehaven. An Article 31 holding direction has now been placed on this application, to allow the Secretary of State time to consider whether call in is warranted. This means that Cumbria County Council cannot issue a decision notice until the Secretary of State has decided whether he will call in the application. Our concerns about this proposal relate primarily to climate change, which will affect many aspects of our lives and the environment both within and outside protected landscapes. We recognise that many support the scheme on the basis that it will provide jobs for the area. While this is of course important, we share the view of many others that in the context of climate emergency (as has been declared by the County Council), the economy should be supported in ways that will also help us to avoid or mitigate the issues of climate change, and not in ways that will further exacerbate them or that will make it more difficult to address them. Read more on the BBC website: Whitehaven coal mine approved for third time
Community input needed to Design Code for the Lake District Both local people and visitors are being urged to contribute to the production of new design guidance for the Lake District National Park. Expand Local people and visitors alike are being urged to contribute to the production of new design guidance for the Lake District National Park. The Lake District National Park Authority has been allocated £120,000 to develop local design standards as a pilot for the National Model Design Code system. The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) Design Code Pathfinder Programme is aimed at empowering communities to have more influence on how development looks, including aspects such as specifying local building materials or informing the layout of streets, and to help ensure that developments enhance their surroundings and conserve local character. The result of the process will be design code document that is adopted as a supplementary planning document and will therefore carry weight in planning decisions. The design codes created through this pilot scheme will be used as examples that communities across the Country can use to guide the creation of their own. Friends of the Lake District has been invited to form part of the steering group that will guide the development of the design code. The steering group will guide the approach to consultation, the code content and the application of the code. However, the success of this process is also reliant on communities getting involved and we strongly urge our members and supporters to take up the opportunities to contribute to the new design code. Already, an app has been released that allows people to select locations/buildings that they feel represent good or bad design examples in the Lake District and add notes to explain why. The PlaceCheck app can be accessed here and you can find out more about how the app will contribute to the process here: Put a pin on the Lake District map to help shape new design code: Lake District National Park In addition, an online consultation hub will launch on 7th November and the Lake District National Park Authority will host a stand at Keswick Market on 10th November to encourage people to use the Place Check app and the consultation hub, and to explain a bit more about the design code process and what having a design code will mean for the National Park. If people have any questions or want to send any photos/examples of good or bad design to Lake District National Park Authority, there is a dedicated email address too: [email protected] A draft design code is expected before Christmas 2022 and, subject to meeting this target, it will be then subject to a formal public consultation during February and March. It is hoped that the final design code will be adopted by the National Park in June 2023, and from then will be taken into account in planning decisions. You can find out more here: https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/planning/planningpolicies/design-code Carlisle City Council has also been allocated £120,000 to create a design code for the St Cuthbert’s Garden Village area.
Copeland Local Plan Working closely with the National Trust, we have been successful in securing changes to Copeland’s emerging local plan that will see the area proposed as an extension to the St Bee’s Heritage Coast protected by planning policy. Changes to better protect dark skies have also been included. Copeland Borough Council has now submitted it’s Local Plan to the Government. The Local Plan will now be subject to a Public Examination by a Planning Inspector Expand 21st October 2022 Copeland Borough Council has now submitted it’s Local Plan to the Government. The Local Plan will now be subject to a Public Examination by a Planning Inspector. 19th May 2022 Working closely with the National Trust, we have been successful in securing changes to Copeland’s emerging local plan that will see the area proposed as an extension to the St Bee’s Heritage Coast protected by planning policy. Changes to better protect dark skies have also been included. The preparation of the Copeland Local Plan is in its final stages and we understand that the next step will be for the Council to submit the Plan to the Government for Examination. Copeland Borough Council is currently consulting on the final draft of their new Local Plan. The Plan will set new planning policies and identify areas for new development in the area of Copeland that lies outside the Lake District National Park. We have responded to earlier consultations during the preparation of the new plan and have been pleased to see some of our suggested changes taken into account, including in relation to dark skies and the St Bees and Whitehaven heritage coast extension. We will be reviewing the final draft document in more detail and responding to the consultation by the deadline of Monday 21st February 2022. To find out more and have your say, please see https://www.copeland.gov.uk/content/local-plan-2021-2038-publication-draft-consultation
Penrith Neighbourhood Plan: Protecting Penrith Beacon We have written to Penrith Town Council confirming that we would not support a Neighbourhood Plan that did not protect green spaces, particularly the Beacon, and that did not reflect the views of the local community. Expand 20th October 2022 Following public consultation, changes were made to the Neighbourhood Plan, including changes we supported to ensure the plan properly protected the Beacon, which is a key landscape feature of the area. Penrith Town Council then submitted their plan for examination. An independent examiner has ruled that the policies relating to green spaces and leisure facilities, including the Beacon, should be removed from the Neighbourhood Plan. Although the examiner found that subject to this removal, the Plan could proceed to referendum, Penrith Town Council do not want this and are concerned that the Plan would not reflect residents wishes if it did not include policies to protect green spaces. We are unclear as yet whether Eden District Council’s Planning Policy department endorses the examiner’s view. The Town Council asked for comments to help them judge what support there would be for a Plan that says nothing about protecting open green spaces and leisure areas within the town. We wrote to the Town Council to confirm that we would not support a Neighbourhood Plan that did not protect green spaces, particularly the Beacon, and that did not reflect the views of the local community. We await further updates. A consultation is currently underway seeking comments on a draft policy to give planning protection to an area of Penrith Beacon, an important landscape feature and landmark immediately north east of Penrith, as part of Penrith Neighbourhood Plan. In an unusual step, the policy has been put forward by the Examiner assessing the Plan after he confirmed that the area was too large to be given protection as a Local Green Space but that it nevertheless warranted special protection because of its value for the local community, the landscape, wildlife and recreation. Policies were proposed by Penrith Town Council and landowners Lowther Estate Trust but the Examiner did not fully agree with either approach. We very much support the inclusion of a policy to protect the Beacon and have been working closely with local campaign group, Keep Penrith Special, to help secure this. We will be responding to this final consultation on the Penrith Neighbourhood Plan with our comments on the detailed wording of the policy. To find out more and have your say please see https://www.eden.gov.uk/planning-and-building/planning-policy/neighbourhood-planning/penrith-neighbourhood-planning-area/ . The deadline for comments is Friday 4th February 2022. Image by Claire Dowling.
Housing Development Proposed in St Bee’s Heritage Coast Extension Area We have challenged plans for 139 houses in the area proposed for the extension of the St Bee’s Heritage Coast. Expand Along with the National Trust, we have challenged plans for 139 houses in the area proposed for the extension of the St Bee’s Heritage Coast. Heritage coasts are defined to protect and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and heritage features of the coastline and to enable the public to enjoy and understand it. The St Bee’s Heritage Coast is the only such area in the North West. It currently stretches from St Bee’s village across St Bee’s Head to Saltom Bay but an extension was proposed and agreed in 2019 by The National Trust, Colourful Coast Partnership, Copeland Borough Council and Natural England, following an independent landscape assessment, although the area has yet to formally be defined as part of the Heritage Coast. As part of a larger proposal, which also includes the redevelopment of a large brownfield site, significant greenfield housing development is now proposed in the extension area, which is concerning in both landscape terms and for its potential to undermine efforts to secure the extension.We have raised our wider concern about the delay in finalising the extension with the National Trust, Natural England and Copeland Borough.If you wish to view and comment on the housing proposals you can do so here – enter application reference number 4/21/2432/0F1 Read our response here.
Raising awareness of the need for consent to develop on Common Land We have long campaigned and lobbied for the protection of common land and town and village greens in Cumbria. In recent cases development has been carried out on common land and village greens without proper consent or appropriate scrutiny. Expand Friends of the Lake District has a long-standing involvement with Common Land and town and village greens in Cumbria, which includes our lobbying and campaigning for their protection. Although not a new issue, recent cases we have been involved in have increased our awareness that works are being carried out on Common Land and town and village greens without the proper consent or appropriate scrutiny. This includes cases where someone has secured planning consent for the works. Sometimes people are aware that they need, and then obtain planning consent but do not realise that separate Common Land consent is also necessary. However, in other cases they are unaware, or simply press ahead knowing that there are weaknesses in the reporting and enforcement of Common Land breaches. This issue is relevant across Cumbria, where we have one third of all the Common Land in the country, meaning its landscape, culture, character and heritage are all heavily influenced by it. In the Lake District National Park there is the additional dimension of Common Land being one of the attributes of Outstanding Universal Value of the World Heritage Site. Common Land should have extra protection by virtue of the World Heritage Site being a heritage asset of international value. It is therefore really important that where it is required, including where it is needed alongside planning consent, that Common Land consent is sought. This will help to ensure that the impacts on Common Land are given appropriate consideration. Failure to do this devalues Common Land, risks harm to and loss of Common Land and puts at risk the benefits and value it has for the landscape, our cultural heritage and for society. We have considered what might help to improve this situation. Whilst legislative or procedural changes might be a longer-term answer, we’re exploring some simpler but more immediate actions and asking key relevant organisations if they will support us in doing so. This will include raising general awareness of the issue and why it’s important to address it as well as asking relevant local planning authorities to highlight the need for Common Land consent where it is relevant to any planning permission they give. Keep an eye out for updates on our website, social media and in our newsletters to see how you can help.