Lake District 2051: What will the National Park be like when it's 100?

Annual Kirby Lecture, Friday 11 October 2024

University of Cumbria, Percival Lecture Theatre, Langdale Building

7pm - 8.30pm

Description

Over the years the Lake District has seen many challenges, but today we seem to be at a tipping point. Climate change adds to flood and fire risks, and nature is in a worse state in National Parks than outside them. Many people feel excluded from our protected landscapes, whilst the opportunities for quiet enjoyment versus adventure tourism, make us question, ‘what and who is our National Park for?’

Decision makers, communities, land managers, businesses and visitors in 2024 all have a role to play in ensuring the National Park thrives. But 27 years from now, will our children be proud of the Lake District landscape we have shaped?

Format

This lecture will look at the hopes, fears and visions for three elements that impact the Lake District landscape: farming, tourism and people. Chair Fiona Reynolds will guide us through a debate about the farmed landscape, the visited landscape, and the young people’s landscape. Fiona will be joined by James Robinson from Strickley Farm near Kendal, Daniel Holder from The Quiet Site in Ullswater, and Claire Bryant from The Outdoor Partnership. There will be an opportunity for audience members to ask questions.

Doors open at 6:30pm; welcome drink on arrival.

This is a free event but donations are welcome.

Image: Coniston by Jacqueline Griffiths