Brewin Dolphin A leading provider of personalised discretionary wealth management services - our Penrith office delivers bespoke advice to a range of clients from Cumbria and beyond, including private individuals, intermediaries, charities, trusts and pension funds. Expand A leading provider of personalised discretionary wealth management services - our Penrith office delivers bespoke advice to a range of clients from Cumbria and beyond, including private individuals, intermediaries, charities, trusts and pension funds. “We are proud to support Friends of the Lake District and its commitment to preserving the region’s landscape for future generations.” www.brewin.co.uk
Trustee - Tony Vaux Professional background: Tony Vaux worked for Oxfam for nearly thirty years. He supported community development in India and planned Oxfam's responses to emergencies. He later worked as a adviser to the UK Government and UN agencies on the links between poverty and conflict Expand Professional background: Tony Vaux worked for Oxfam for nearly thirty years. He supported community development in India and planned Oxfam's responses to emergencies. He later worked as a adviser to the UK Government and UN agencies on the links between poverty and conflict. Local background: He moved to Caldbeck in the Lake District in 2003 and in 2018 published a history of that area- 'Caldbeck -A Special Part of Lakeland'. Interests: Include fell-walking, hill-farming and public access to land in Cumbria.
Trustee - Laura Doan Professional background: Professor of Cultural History at the University of Manchester, based in the English department. Expand Professional background: Professor of Cultural History at the University of Manchester, based in the English department. Local background: For over two decades, a resident of West Cumbria, living on the edge of a farm where my partner grew up. Interests: Fell-walking, gardening, music, and cinema.
The Threat to Cumbria We are alarmed by the Government's ignorance about environmental issues and their importance for supporting the economy of Cumbria and the Lake District, people’s health and wellbeing, and for the protection of our habitats, wildlife and world renowned landscapes. Expand Return to Campaign homepage> Friends of the Lake District, along with many other environmental organisations has become increasingly alarmed by the Government’s lack of concern for the climate, environment and landscape. Indeed, there appears to be a worrying ignorance about these issues and their importance for supporting the economy of Cumbria and the Lake District, people’s health and wellbeing, and for the protection of our habitats, wildlife and world renowned landscapes. Take Action and tell the Government to stand up for the landscape and environment and to stop its #AttackOnNature The Government was elected in 2019 on a Manifesto commitment to bring forward “the most ambitious environmental programme of any country on earth”, but is right now proposing to weaken planning rules, drop protections for our most valuable wildlife sites by scrapping and not replacing EU legislation brought into English law, water down incentives for farmers and land managers to commit to sustainable agriculture and restart fracking. The government’s recent moves toward environmental deregulation will hasten the decline of our natural world. We are particularly concerned that Cumbria’s National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) will be damaged in the rush for deregulated Investment Zones where planning and other environmental legislation will be suspended at the expense of both residents and the environment. Cumbria has the highest percentage of land covered by environmental protections in England (64%) and is therefore more at risk from scrapping protections for our wildlife, landscape and heritage than any other county. There are at least two of these Investment Zones being considered in Cumbria (at Barrow and the west Cumbria coast - which includes the Lake District National Park) and we urge our local political leaders in both Cumbria County Council and the two Shadow Authorities (due to come into effect in 2023) to think carefully about what that would mean for the ability to protect of Cumbria’s landscape.
Take Action Contact your MP and ask them to do whatever they can to persuade ministers to retain existing environmental protections and keep our landscape and wildlife safe. Expand Return to Campaign homepage> Contact your MP and ask them to do whatever they can to persuade ministers to retain existing environmental protections to keep our landscape and wildlife safe. This is a nationwide threat, so please contact your MP even if you don’t live in Cumbria or the Lake District. Mention your concern about National Parks as these protected landscapes are for everyone. You can contact your MP and Ministers by email or letter or on Twitter. (Please use #AttackonNature in your Tweets) Find your MP's contact details>Find your MP's Twitter address> It’s also worth contacting your local councillor or the Leader of your local council to raise concerns as the decision to go ahead with Investment Zones has to be agreed by local authorities as well as Government. In Cumbria: The Leader of the new Westmorland and Furness council is Jonathan Brook - [email protected] The Leader of the new Cumberland Council is Mark Fryer - [email protected] You can also contact Ministers such as Liz Truss (the Prime Minister), Ranil Jayawardena (Defra – the Dept for Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs) and Simon Clarke (Dept for Levelling Up) Sign Up to these Campaigns You can also sign up to a number of campaigns being run by others including our national bodies CPRE – the countryside charity and the Campaign for National Parks. Campaign for National Parks Wildlife Trusts – Defend Nature RSPB – Stop the Attack on Nature CPRE - Rethink Fracking Pass the message on! Talk to your friends and family about how much is at risk if the Government doesn’t continue to protect the environment in our laws.
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.
What projects will you run? Expand Our projects are grouped into three areas of work broadly relating to the themes of natural heritage (6 projects), cultural heritage (10 projects) and connecting heritage (6 projects). They will be delivered by a range of organisations working in partnership with landowners, volunteers, community groups and others. Natural heritage Revealing the Foundations – The designation and conservation of key geological sites throughout the Westmorland Dales, the interpretation of its geology through a range of media, and engagement with schools and the wider public. Conserving Species-rich Grasslands – The conservation of species-rich grassland in the Westmorland Dales area of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The engagement of others in their conservation process and increasing their appreciation, enjoyment and understanding of the habitat. Reconnecting Woods, Trees and People – The creation of new woodland and hedgerows, the planting of individual trees and restoration of existing treed habitats to increase the habitat connectivity and create a resilient landscape in the Westmorland Dales. Changing the Course, Slowing the Flow – The restoration of reaches of both Scandal Beck and the River Lyvennet for the benefit of people and wildlife. Working with and through natural processes to improve habitats and slow the flow in the upper catchment, alleviating flood risk downstream in more populous areas. Sustaining Farming in the Westmorland Dales – Building the capacity of the farming community to enable their businesses to continue to sustain the rich cultural heritage of the area and communicate how they manage the landscape to members of the public. Riverine Species Monitoring – The objective of the project is to collect better data on the presence, prevalence and distribution of key riverine indicator species such as White Clawed Crayfish, Atlantic Salmon and European Eel in the upper Lune catchment. The project will also collect better data on the diversity and prevalence of other fish species in the area. Cultural heritage Great Asby Scar Archaeology Survey – Community archaeology survey across an area of upland rough grazing and limestone pavement at Great Asby Scar. Little Asby through the Keyhole – Community archaeological excavations at Little Asby Common Digging the Past – Community-based test pitting project within a historic village settlement. The project will raise awareness and interest in local history, build links to the past and bring together different generations to share an appreciation in local history and to gain skills. Gamelands Stone Circle – Undergrounding intrusive overhead electricity wires so as to improve visual amenity in and around Gamelands Stone Circle, a prehistoric scheduled monument. Geophysical and other surveys to enhance understanding of its archaeological context. Dry Stone Walls – Historical and condition survey of dry stone walls throughout the project area. Seek to understand the narrative of enclosure through the patterns of the field walls. Consolidation of priority lengths of wall. Traditional Farm Buildings – The survey, recording and interpretation of traditional farm buildings in the Westmorland Dales. Conservation work on a number of key buildings under threat. Small-scale Heritage Features – A community small-scale heritage features survey of 7 settlements will be carried out to inform records, interpretation and restoration. Our Common Heritage – The project will observe, record and celebrate common land, commoners and commoning in the area. It will record the unique history of this type of land and farming, and culminate in a celebration of the area’s common land and commoners. Monuments at Risk – Conservation project undertaking works to protect some of the most vulnerable heritage sites in the project area including Pendragon Castle, Smardale Lime Kilns, Crosby Ravensworth Barrow and Shieling. A Way Through – The exploration of routes through the Westmorland Dales which people and animals have used for thousands of years, and the physical and cultural marks they have left. The sharing of the story with the wider public Connecting heritage Love Your Landscape – A small grants scheme for voluntary and community groups, landowners, farmers, schools and local councils to reveal, conserve, enhance, celebrate and raise awareness of the unique landscape of the Westmorland Dales. Skills for the Future – Nine work-based apprenticeships in environmental management and cultural heritage conservation plus certificated vocational training. It will provide the opportunity for young people to conserve special features of their local area and deliver substantial heritage and conservation gains during the lifetime of the project. Discovering the Westmorland Dales – Improvement of the condition and infrastructure of the rights of way network in the Westmorland Dales, and the promotion of opportunities for quiet recreation as a means of exploring the area. Creation of a bridleway link between the Pennine Bridleway and Eden Valley Loops, and the extension of the Yorkshire Dales Cycleway. Distinctly Westmorland Dales – Work with local tourism businesses in the Westmorland Dales area to help them to promote and encourage enjoyment and understanding of the Westmorland Dales’ unique character and hidden heritage. Interpreting the Westmorland Dales – A coordinated approach to interpreting the Westmorland Dales and its heritage, using a variety of media to engage local people and visitors in understanding and appreciating what makes the area special. Celebrating and Engaging – A programme of individual projects and complementary range of structured community engagement activities that will add value to and underpin individual projects. The coordination of volunteering opportunities, an artistic engagement programme and landscape-related learning opportunities.
Laura Partington Policy Officer Expand I am responsible for the policy areas of protected landscapes, woodlands, forestry, access and recreation. Before working at Friends of the Lake District I prepared various landscape and planning documents, including Landscape Character Assessments, green infrastructure strategies and nature based solutions research. I have also managed a number of community and stakeholder engagement projects, working with local people on environmental regeneration schemes, heritage interpretation and capacity building initiatives. Outside work I enjoy Pilates, live music and love nothing more than exploring the outdoors with my children.
Marquees & Teepees, Killington Limited "We are pleased to be supporting Friends of the Lake District. The sustainability of the Lake District is very important for our future generations and we wholly support the work that is undertaken to protect our beautiful landscape." Expand Marquee and Furniture Hire"We are pleased to be supporting Friends of the Lake District. The sustainability of the Lake District is very important for our future generations and we wholly support the work that is undertaken to protect our beautiful landscape." www.killingtonmarquees.co.uk
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.
Open Day and Annual General Meeting Schedule and Agenda Expand 9.45am Registration and refreshments 10.15am Welcome from Chief Executive, Douglas Chalmers 10.30am Morning Events All events are free. Register your interest in attending online via the Booking and Registration section, call us on 01539 720788 or email [email protected]. Limited Numbers: Please be aware that the places on our morning events are limited in number so we cannot guarantee a place. We would ask you at this stage to register your interest in attending one of these events. We will be allocating places on a first come first served basis and contacting all of those who have expressed an interest in attending one of our three morning activities to confirm places in due course. We invite you to select ONE of the following activities when booking your places at our AGM. Walk: National Park Southern Boundary Extension – the story so farA walk up the Hoad to the Lighthouse Walk begins from Coronation Hall at 10.30am. Access: A steady uphill walk with some steep sections, on good footpaths with benches along the way. Sturdy footwear advised. Join our Chief Executive Douglas Chalmers and Policy Officer Laura Partington to walk up to the Sir John Barrow Monument, to view the area proposed as the Southern Boundary Extension for the National Park.We will explain how the campaign unfolded, what our main arguments were and what we learned from this major campaign, and what we will do next. And the far-reaching views across the Bay and towards the fells are breathtaking! Rusland Woods WalkBus leaves from Coronation Hall at 10.30am. Access: Easy to moderate, uneven ground, some steep slopes but no stiles. Walking boots needed. Come and spend an hour discovering our new woodland in the heart of the Rusland valley. Jan Darrall will lead the walk through Bull Coppice and Resp Haw, give an update on how the woodland is developing since we acquired it in 2020, and share our hopes for it as an ‘Atlantic woodland’. Planning and Sustainable Transport update and discussionA talk in Coronation Hall. Join Planning Officer Lorayne Wall and Policy Officer Kate Willshaw to hear about our recent planning work, issues coming up and about what we’ve been doing since the 2019 Sustainable Transport conference. There will be an opportunity for questions and discussion around both of these topic areas. 12 - 12.30pm Buffet lunch A delicious lunch from a local supplier. Please book and tell us about any dietary requirements when booking. Free, but donations encouraged on the day to help cover costs please. 12.30 - 1.15pm Guest Speaker: Debbie North, founder of Access the Dales, will share how we can make the outdoors more inclusive and the importance of increasing diversity in the Lake District. For many, accessing the outdoors can feel daunting and unwelcoming. Debbie has been working to break down barriers and stereotypes to address inequalities for accessing the outdoors. 1.15pm Chief Executive ‘Annual Achievements’ presentationWith a Questions and Answer session to follow 1.45pm Annual General Meeting Agenda Welcome and apologies for absence Confirm the minutes of the 2021 Annual General Meeting Chairman’s Report Election of President Annual Report and Accounts Questions Appoint auditors Election of Executive Committee members Any other business
Booking and Registration Expand To attend our AGM or to take part in any of the free morning events you must complete an online booking form. Alternatively, please call us on 01539 720788 or email [email protected] Limited Numbers: Please be aware that the places on our morning events are limited in number so we cannot guarantee a place. We would ask you at this stage to register your interest in attending one of these events. We will be allocating places on a first come first served basis and contacting all of those who have expressed an interest in attending one of our three morning events in due course. All bookings must be received by Friday 24th June.
Transport Expand We strongly encourage you to travel by public transport if at all possible. Ulverston is very well served by buses and trains; the choice of venue was made with this in mind. The Coronation Hall is 5 mins from bus stops and the train station. If you have time whilst waiting for transport, Ulverston town centre has a lovely range of independent shops and cafes – definitely worth a visit. Buses Bus X6 Barrow – Dalton – Ulverston – Newby Bridge – Grange-over-Sands – Kendal https://www.cumbria.gov.uk/buses/X6/ Bus 6 Windermere – Newby Bridge – Ulverston – Barrow https://www.cumbria.gov.uk/buses/6W/ Bus X12 Coniston – Torver – Greenodd – Ulverston https://www.cumbria.gov.uk/buses/X12/ Trains Trains available (direct in many cases) from any stops on the west coast of Cumbria as far north as Carlisle and from all stops between Ulverston and Manchester airport – including Lancaster (for intercity connections). https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/ Oxenholme station: Trains arrive at Oxenholme from Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, Manchester and Liverpool. We can offer a minibus shuttle service from/to Oxenholme station. Please let us know if you would be interested in this. Community Transport Where scheduled services are not available, please consider using community travel schemes. The Village Wheels service will get people into Ulverston from some of the Furness villages by 10am on a Friday https://cumbria.gov.uk/elibrary/Content/Internet/544/6320/6508/4219581354.pdf Alternatively, if you know of other members locally who may be coming to the AGM, please consider car sharing. Car Parking There is no car park at the Coronation Hall. If you require disabled parking, please let us know. For those travelling by car, details on car parking in Ulverston can be found using the following link: https://www.southlakeland.gov.uk/parking-roads-and-travel/where-to-park/car-parks-and-parking-charges/ulverston-car-parks-and-parking-charges/ulverston-car-parks/
National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty We ask new councillors to stand up for the special qualities of our National Parks and AONBs and their settings when making planning and other decisions. Protected landscapes are under increasing pressure from climate change, visitor demands and ever-more development. We must conserve and enhance the landscape so that future generations can continue to enjoy all the societal benefits that we do. Expand This is a time of great change for our protected landscapes, it is imperative that we conserve and enhance their landscapes so that future generations can continue to enjoy all the societal benefits that they provide. We ask that you Work with the LDNPA and AONBs to develop educational campaigns that provide people with the information they need to enjoy the landscape responsibly. Advocate for landscape character and monitoring change to ensure landscape character is enhanced. Champion the quiet enjoyment of the landscape by supporting activities that do not damage the tranquillity that makes this landscape so special. Campaign for inclusive landscapes that are available to all regardless of background.
Planning We need more ambitious plans and bolder decision-making to protect our landscapes and cultural heritage. We need to end the business-as-usual approaches to housing, transport, energy and economic development that are failing Cumbria’s communities and our environment. New plans should address our climate and ecological emergencies, and clarify how they will meet the agreed Cumbrian target of net zero by 2037. Expand The preparation of local plans for the new authorities provides an opportunity to be far more ambitious for Cumbria in protecting our landscapes and cultural heritage, as well as in treating the climate and ecological crises as the emergencies they are. It’s also an opportunity for Cumbria’s local plans to be more connected and mutually complementary in order to deliver the best for Cumbria and fulfull its potential, particularly in relation to transport. We ask you to call for plans and decisions that: recognise and respond to the true value of landscapes and their features and character, visual amenity, cultural heritage and wildlife and the true urgency of the need to tackle the climate and ecological crises genuinely prioritise the re-use of existing buildings and brownfield sites for new development; support the revitalisation of town and village centres and create communities that make active travel and public transport safe, appealing and convenient consider and support imaginative ways to make more efficient use of the existing building stock and to ensure that additional homes do not result in the loss of or harm to landscapes, green spaces, heritage and habitats, but instead create and enhance these turn the tide on the number of homes lost from the local market through high levels of second-home ownership and holiday letting and ensure that new homes closely reflect genuine local needs in relation to size, type, tenure and affordability require new development to be truly carbon neutral (right down to accounting for what is being lost by developing a site), energy and water efficient and with renewable technologies integrated into the design from the start actively prioritise an approach to development that will nurture a role for Cumbria as a leader in the green jobs revolution We ask you to make local plans that take a lead and put an end to the business-as-usual approaches to housing, transport and economic development that are failing Cumbria’s communities and our environment.
Sustainable Transport Building on the Cumbria Transport Infrastructure Plan and the Lake District National Park Management Plan, we should prioritise the decarbonisation of transport in the County. We need to provide people with alternatives to the private car by increasing access to public transport, making mobility a service (e.g. ride-sharing, business-supplied transport for workers), ensuring access to hyper-fast broadband and reducing the need to travel. Expand Getting around the county needs to be made easier for those who do not have a car or who do not want to use a car. Reducing the number of car journeys taken whilst maintaining and improving accessibility to places within the county will have enormous benefits for environmental quality, people’s health and wellbeing and for businesses in Cumbria. Improving transport choices will increase access for everyone whilst reducing air pollution and carbon emissions. Buses should be subsidised (Cumbria is currently the only local authority in England that does not subsidise routes) in order to provide services to more of our communities. Services should ensure people to get to and from work on time and to also provide car-free access for visitors to Cumbria in order to reduce congestion, carbon emissions and air pollution and increase accessibility for those who don’t have access to a private car, both residents and visitors. Active travel solutions must be sought for congestion in towns and villages in the Cumbria (including those in the Lake District National Park). New roads are not the answer here, but better in-town active transport options for those walking and using bikes and electric bikes. The new authorities should lobby for better rail services on both the main and branch lines in the county.
Energy Generation To address the energy supply crisis we should support the installation of renewable energy schemes where they can be sensitively accommodated in the landscape and where there would be no significant impact on protected landscapes or habitats. Local communities must be involved and should benefit from any installation. Expand Climate change is a serious threat to the landscape and environment of the County as well as to its population. Cumbria has already suffered greatly from climate induced severe weather events. The new authorities must address climate change and its impacts in the county through implementation of policies on mitigation and adaptation; including actively promoting domestic and business renewable installation, including large scale solar schemes on existing roofs; significantly increasing domestic and business energy efficiency and a step change increase in insulation schemes to cut fuel poverty amongst Cumbria’s residents; increasing the number of jobs and apprenticeships in green industries in order to put a qualified workforce in place to make these necessary improvements The new authorities will need to continue to work with communities to encourage them to become more resilient in the face of increased climate induced storm damage and flood risk. Following the successful climate jury process in several towns and villages across Cumbria, we would encourage the new authorities to consider running these across the county in order to involve, inform and empower communities to provide locally appropriate solutions to reduce their carbon emissions. We urge the new authorities to continue to support Zero Carbon Cumbria’s 2037 net zero goal and to support and promote the work that is being carried out through the Zero Carbon Cumbria Partnership.
Health and Wellbeing We should recognise the many benefits of interacting with nature, including the mental and physical health of Cumbrian residents. Protecting and enhancing our green spaces and the rural environment should be a priority for the benefit of both people and wildlife. Expand Cumbria’s landscapes provide so many opportunities for improving the health and wellbeing of Cumbrian residents. We ask the new authority members to: Recognise the many benefits of interacting with nature, particularly on our mental and physical health Protect and enhance our green spaces and the rural environment, for the benefit of people and wildlife Support social prescribing schemes and services across Cumbria. Campaign for incorporating outdoor learning into the curriculum for all schools in Cumbria. Every young person should have access to the outdoors as an essential part of learning and personal development, no matter their circumstances. Climate Anxiety is on the rise particularly amongst young people, outdoor learning will help build connections to the natural world, help young people explore the impact of climate change on a local level and become actively involved in the improvement of their local environment. Support the creation and retention of landscape-based jobs and countryside management skills initiatives
Dark Skies We should promote planning policies to prevent light pollution to save much needed energy, protect biodiversity and give unspoiled Dark Skies back to residents and visitors. This needs to involve the continuation of the innovative and successful work by Cumbria Highways to renew street lighting. Expand Cumbria is blessed with some of finest Dark Skies in England, yet for many in the county increasing light pollution is preventing our residents and visitors seeing the stars in our own galaxy, the Milky Way. We ask for continued support of the Dark Skies Cumbria project www.darkskiescumbria.org.uk
Wildlife, Habitats and Green Infrastructure The new authorities have opportunities to enhance the wildlife value of the estates they own and manage such as parks, roadside verges, woodlands, trees and properties. Biodiversity gain focussed on native species should be incorporated into their decision making. Local authorities should ensure that all their policymaking and planning decisions create, restore and enhance as much wildlife habitat as possible. Expand We ask the new councillors to take the protection and enhancement of the natural environment into account in decision-making processes. We ask you to protect sites and habitats by: Actively supporting and contributing to the Cumbria Local Nature Partnership in order to create, restore and enhance habitats across the county in order to increase wildlife and sequester carbon. Supporting the Cumbria Biodiversity Data Centre Ensuring that land the new authority owns and/or manages is managed for the maximum biodiversity gain Ensuring that public realm works, local plans and planning decisions incorporate the principles of green infrastructure Using the Cumbria County Council Roadside Verge database to ensure that roadside verges are managed for their unique flora As there is more pressure on the landscape for tree planting we ask new authority members to support native, broadleaf woodlands and tree planting where it enhances landscape character. Native woodlands are more biodiverse and will be more resilient to climate change than woodlands with non-native, conifer species. We ask new authority members recognise the value of our native woodlands for helping to combat climate change and for the societal benefits they provide. We ask that new councillors advocate for the removal of non-native conifer species from the landscape to increase biodiversity, enhance landscape character and ensure landscape resilience.
Water Our County’s rivers, lakes and streams are vital for people and wildlife and must be kept clean and free of pollution. The new authorities must ensure that water quality is monitored properly. Quick and effective action must be taken to control pollution and extraction demands, to keep our waterbodies clean and healthy for both people and wildlife. Expand Cumbria has a huge number of lakes, tarns, rivers and streams, all of which add to the beauty of the landscape. The County also supplies a lot of NW England with its drinking water supply making our lakes an important national resource. Pressure on waterbodies includes pollution from sewage effluent and agricultural runoff, inappropriate recreational use, flooding erosion and over abstraction for water supply. The waterbodies of Cumbria are used recreationally by millions of people every year attracting both local people and visitors and supporting numerous businesses. The rise in these activities means it is more important than ever that rivers, lakes and streams are kept clean and free of pollution. Water saving measures should be incorporated into local authority properties and be promoted through planning decisions and local plans. Whilst Cumbria appears to have an abundance of water, water conservation reduces the energy needed to process raw water and reduces water use, helping to tackle low reservoir levels in times of drought. As Local Flood Authorities, the two new authorities will need to continue to work through Cumbria Strategic Flood Partnership with upland landowners, Internal Drainage Boards, Rivers Trusts and other land managers and agencies in order to look at ways of reducing downstream flooding from high impact rainfall and storm events in towns and villages in Cumbria. This is particularly important in light of the severe flooding events that have taken place in the county over the last 15 years. Continue to engage in the Northwest Shoreline Management Plan process
Rural Communities and Agriculture Our rural communities are facing many challenges, including an ageing population, second home ownership and loss of services such as shops, schools and public transport. The new authorities should support local businesses and locally produced food and goods and work in partnership with communities to ensure they are vital and resilient. Expand The new local authorities need to work with our upland farmers to ensure there is a sustainable future for upland agriculture in the face of uncertainty following Brexit and new land management schemes.
Common Land The new authorities should work with partners to find a more sustainable future for Cumbria’s common land, protecting all stakeholders and the wide range of public benefits they deliver. Expand
CUMBERLAND SPECIFIC: Geological Disposal Facility (GDF) Any GDF agreed with Cumberland communities will need improved infrastructure such as power transmission lines and road, rail and sea links. The impact of the development of a GDF on the landscapes of Cumbria and the Lake District must be accounted for in the development of any plans. Expand
Kay Andrews Landscape Engagement Officer Expand My role is to raise awareness of the social, cultural, natural heritage and economic value of Cumbria’s upland landscapes. It’s a highly rewarding job reconnecting people with the landscape and promoting understanding of its management. Outside of work you’ll usually find me out on the fells with my Border Collie Flint, running, swimming or climbing and of course enjoying lots of coffee and cake.
Kate Willshaw Policy Officer - 4 days a week Expand My specialist areas include energy and nuclear government policy and major infrastructure projects, the impacts of climate change on Cumbria’s landscape, sustainability, natural capital/ecosystem services and biodiversity. I also manage Friends of the Lake District's digital mapping system. Favourite things: playing the ukulele, weekends away in my campervan and outdoor swimming in rivers and lakes in Cumbria and France. In between I look after an allotment and an overenthusiastic border collie called Luba who really appreciates living near so many great dog walks. He and I can often be found up The Helm at lunchtime.
Dawn Groundsell Communications Officer - 2.5 days a week Expand Specialist areas: Publications, public relations, website management, enewsletters and social media. I enjoy cycling, walking up hills, dancing, and being outdoors as much as possible all year round, although I much prefer it in sunshine. I work part time, usually Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Jack Ellerby Dark Skies Officer - 3 days a week Expand My role is to raise awareness of the value of Dark Skies across Cumbria, and to inspire communities, businesses and organisations to reduce light pollution. The benefits are a win-win; healthier lives, reduced energy use and carbon emissions, saving nocturnal wildlife (eg bats and insects) and to allow local people and visitors to enjoy seeing the stars at night. (declining opportunities at the present time!) Previously I worked in planning and managed community projects at Exmoor, the Lake District and North York Moors National Parks; was a Policy Officer for Friends of the Lake District (2002-2014); and since then have been a self-employed landscape contractor. Interests/hobbies – allotment, birdwatching, cycling, fishing, valuing nature/the environment, shooting and walking with my dog. Working days Monday to Wednesday,
Lorayne Woodend Wall Planning Officer Expand As Planning Officer, my main role is to consider and respond to planning applications, Local Plan consultations and consultations on national planning policy changes, although I‘ll get involved in other areas of work too. I’m very proud of being Cumbrian with strong local ancestry. Outside work, I enjoy exploring the less-frequented parts of Cumbria and love bagging a trig point or milk churn stand, discovering local history and finding hidden or quirky local facts and features. I can also be found enjoying classic car events, snooker tournaments or Jo Nesbo novels or planning an overseas adventure – Japan is a firm favourite!
How is the work being funded? Expand The scheme is grant funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund through its Landscape Partnership programme. Ros Kerslake, Chief Executive of the Heritage Fund has said, "Our historic landscapes are incredibly important to people’s wellbeing and need to be protected. Some of the landscapes we are funding today are in the most remote parts of the UK; others form an important backdrop to some of our largest cities. What they all have in common is the potential to make people’s lives better, which is why they are so richly deserving of National Lottery money. "A grant of £224,200 was awarded in November 2016 to enable Friends of the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority and partners to develop their detailed plans for a Round 2 bid for the scheme’s delivery. This development phase has been completed and the Round 2 bid was submitted for a further grant of £2.27m in September 2018. In December 2018 we heard that this application was successful, helping fund a scheme worth £3.45m, including cash match funding and volunteer time."
Fern Howe Guest House Fern Howe Guest House is situated in the picturesque village of Braithwaite, near Keswick, offering high quality accommodation and local produce. We are passionate about the environment and wildlife and support a number of local charities within the Lake District and Cumbria. Expand Fern Howe Guest House is situated in the picturesque village of Braithwaite, near Keswick, offering high quality accommodation and local produce. "At Fern Howe Guest House we always strive to provide the best service possible in a relaxed and comfortable environment. We have ten guest rooms, which compose of single, double, twin, super king and family options. We believe strongly in supporting local businesses and serve local, free-range and Fairtrade produce where possible. We are also mindful of playing a role in conserving the beautiful Lake District National Park that we are situated within, as well as the wider environment, which is why we actively support Friends of the Lake District, the Lake District Foundation, Fix the Fells and the Cumbria Wildlife Trust. Friends of the Lake District do fantastic work in conserving the landscape for the enjoyment of all, and for the preservation of the amazing wildlife that inhabits it – this is something that we are passionate about supporting and is why we chose to become corporate members." www.fernhowe.co.uk
December 2021 Expand Wed 1st Dry Stone Walling, Mazonwath. Contact [email protected] for more details.(Numbers are limited because of work proximity and we are currently unable to offer drystone walling training. We can therefore only offer places to experienced drystone wallers at this time). Wed 8th General Workparty, High Borrowdale. Contact [email protected] for more details. Useful information for volunteers Meeting points, times, equipment and detailed information about activities and schedules for each of our volunteering activity types
Vice President - John Campbell A long time connection with the Lake District living locally near Troutbeck, and having had family in Langdale. Supporter of Lakeland Arts Trust and other local bodies. Expand Professional background: Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) with specialism in commercial properties, combined with Business Management. Over the years has been non-exec Director of Health Authority, and worked with Outward Bound. A long time connection with the Lake District living locally near Troutbeck, and having had family in Langdale. Supporter of Lakeland Arts Trust and other local bodies. Other interests include historic buildings and gardens. Passionate about the preservation of the Cumbrian landscape.
Submitting an Objection Write TO THE LDNPA to help the fight against this proposal. View our letter template, add your own response (we've provided text in the template to guide you) and email it to the Lake District National Park Authority Expand Write TO THE LDNPA to help the fight against this proposal. View our letter template, add your own response (we've provided text in the template to guide you) and email it to the Lake District National Park Authority VIEW LETTER TEMPLATE(Template includes instructions on what to write and where to send)
Westmorland Spirits Ltd Our goal was to create the world's best-tasting (and best-looking) gin. Gilpin's Gin is a five-times distilled London Dry Gin hand-crafted in small batches. Expand Our goal was to create the world's best-tasting (and best-looking) gin. Gilpin's Gin is a five-times distilled London Dry Gin hand-crafted in small batches. Gilpin's Gin is made using just eight botanicals in perfect balance creating a rounded, surprisingly complex taste that is both classic and very modern. For the distillation we use water from the Holy Well Spring at Cartmel in the English Lake District. This water, which originally fell as rain over the Lakeland fells has spent years filtering through limestone and a bed of ancient willow-peat. www.gilpinsgin.com
WalkLakes WalkLakes aim to help you make the most of walking in the Lake District by searching out the best walks they can find from gentle to challenging. Expand WalkLakes web site aims to help you make the most of walking in the Lake District. They do that by searching out the best walks they can find from gentle to challenging and providing detailed instructions and maps. They also have a mapping app to help you plan your own walks. www.walklakes.co.uk
Visit Ulverston The official tourist information provider for Ulverston promoting events and venues in the locality, encouraging sustainable tourism and benefiting the local economy. Expand The official tourist information provider for Ulverston promoting events and venues in the locality, encouraging sustainable tourism and benefiting the local economy. “It is our privilege to support Friends of the Lake District in championing the protection of the natural environment, whilst accommodating the needs of local communities and enhancing the enjoyment of visitors”. ulverston.com
Thie Loghey Ltd Thie Loghey Luxury Lake District Lodge is located in an idyllic setting on the outskirts of Hawkshead in the heart of the Lake District National Park. Expand Thie Loghey Luxury Lake District Lodge is located in an idyllic setting on the outskirts of Hawkshead in the heart of the Lake District National Park. Built to the highest specification you will find all the chic modern day facilities expected from a super deluxe holiday Lodge. One of only five luxury lodges, set in a rural location surrounded by sprawling countryside and with the famous Lake District fells and mountain ranges beyond. www.thieloghey.co.uk
Sunnyside Guest House We are long-standing members of Keswick Fair Trade, are Corporate Members of Friends of the Lake District and Nurture Lakeland and hold a Gold accreditation from CBEN which covers every aspect of how we operate Sunnyside and its impact on the environment. Expand We are long-standing members of Keswick Fair Trade, are Corporate Members of Friends of the Lake District and Nurture Lakeland and hold a Gold accreditation from CBEN which covers every aspect of how we operate Sunnyside and its impact on the environment. We are also proud to have actively supported our local Trussell Trust Food Bank since 2010. www.sunnysideguesthouse.com
Spatial Consultants Ltd We help organisations use geographic technologies to transform their business operations. We support the Friends in developing sustainable practices for the wildlife and communities of this beautiful area that we call home. Expand We help organisations use geographic technologies to transform their business operations.We support the Friends in developing sustainable practices for the wildlife and communities of this beautiful area that we call home."Spatial Consultants Ltd is delighted to support the Friends of the Lake District in their care of the landscape and communities of our region. As a local IT practice specialising in the binding power of geography we appreciate the Friends' efforts to foster sustainable livelihoods whilst preserving our natural treasure for generations to come". www.spatialconsultants.com