66 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendices Appendix 1 Facts and figures about the World Heritage Site 69 Appendices Appendix 2 A short history of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal 70 Appendix 3 Planning and policy framework for the World Heritage Site 73 Appendix 4 List of World Heritage Site stakeholders 77 Appendix 5 Outcomes of public consultation 79 Appendix 6 Evaluation of delivery of objectives and actions 96 in WHS Management Plan 2009-2014 Appendix 7 English Heritage and National Trust Conservation Principles 101 Appendix 8 Conservation Action Plan 2015-2021 102 Appendix 9 Geodiversity Audit 127 Appendix 10 Landscape Character Assessments 135

Appendices World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 67

Appendix 1: Facts and figures about the World Heritage Site

When did the In 1986 Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal was designated a World Heritage Site (WHS). Its title on the World Heritage List is ‘Studley Royal Park including area become the ruins of Fountains Abbey World Heritage Site’. The boundaries were largely drawn to reflect the land in National Trust ownership at that time. The WHS a WHS and how is 822 acres (333 hectares). big is it?

Administrative The Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal WHS lies in the Harrogate Borough Council and North Yorkshire County Council authority areas. The Fountains areas Abbey and Studley Royal WHS is also within the boundary of the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Rivers The River Skell flows through the valley from the south-west; feeding the formal ponds, canals and cascades that form the central features of the water garden before exiting in the direction of Ripon.

Farmland The estate also includes an extensive deer park, which contains a large deer population consisting of three different species; these are Sika, Red and Fallow deer. There are also three tenanted pastures totalling 90 acres of farmland.

Public rights The Studley Royal Deer Park including Mackershaw and the Seven Bridges Valley is open to the public. Each year we estimate that 150,000 visitors come of way just to enjoy this free area of the estate and the many walks through it.

Nature Four areas of the WHS are designated Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs). The WHS also lies within the boundary of the Nidderdale Area conservation of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Heritage Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal estate is a designated UNESCO WHS. A buffer zone for the WHS was approved by the World Heritage Committee in designations 2012. The site has one scheduled monument (the abbey ruins); eight Grade I listed buildings; eight Grade II* listed buildings and 38 Grade II listed buildings. In addition to this the estate is listed on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens as Grade I Special Historic Interest. The village of Studley Roger which lies just outside the WHS is a Conservation Area.

People There are currently 79 members of permanent full and part time staff employed by the National Trust at Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal with an additional 60 members of staff working flexibly during our peak seasons. Almost 400 people volunteer across 28 different teams.

Visitors On average, over 350,000 people visit Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal estate each year (344,113 in 2013) with an estimated 150,000 additional people visiting the deer park. This makes the estate one of the most visited ‘pay-for-entry’ sites of the National Trust and one of the most popular historic sites to visit in Yorkshire. The National Trust segments visitors into seven core ‘user-groups’. This segmentation helps site managers to identify who uses their sites and how they can improve opportunities and increase enjoyment. Detailed segmentation research at Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal identified that the site is most prominently visited by ‘Out and About’ (spontaneous and sociable visitors), ‘Explorer Families’ (active, educated and enthusiastic people spending time as a family) and ‘Curious Minds’ (visitors generally over 45 with broad interests).

Appendix 1 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 69 Appendix 2: A short history of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal

Introduction abbeys in Britain. Its wealth was largely the North’. Built on a magnificent scale Studley estate was broken up when sold built on the wool trade and vast donated from the outset, the design that was by its last private owner, Henry Vyner, in The Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal or purchased land holdings. It was contrived by the Aislabies, understood 1966. It was then that the High Stables, estate has a special and significant history. dissolved in 1539 and sold the following and incorporated every major new garden Wheatbriggs House and the Pheasantries This section looks at the history of the year to Sir Richard Gresham, a London fashion as it emerged. The resulting were sold into separate ownership, while lives of the Cistercians at Fountains merchant, who recouped some of the gardened landscape revolved around eye- the gardens, abbey and parkland were Abbey, the medieval origins of the Studley purchase price by selling the abbey’s catchers, contrived vistas and carefully acquired by West Riding County Council. Royal estate and the development of the building materials. In 1597, Sir Stephen designed water features and contrasts, all There was a huge backlog of conservation designed landscape under the Aislabies. Proctor acquired the Fountains estate taking full advantage of the topography work to be addressed. The National Trust It also introduces the families who have and built Fountains Hall (1597-1604), of the Skell valley and the presence of acquired the estate in 1983 from North owned the Fountains and Studley Royal partly with stone from the monastic the abbey ruins. Studley Royal became an Yorkshire County Council (successor to estates over time, the history of tourism complex. The Messenger family owned the outstanding illustration of the successive the West Riding County Council). Since on the site and the land use history of the Fountains estate from 1627 to 1767, when landscape fashions of the 18th century, then, a programme of restoration and estate and associated sites. it was purchased by William Aislabie and and was a frequent and important stop on conservation has been under way in combined with Studley Royal. Mackershaw cultural tours of the north of England. the water garden, Fountains Hall, and, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal was a managed woodland let by the Lord in partnership with English Heritage, — a brief history of the Manor at Studley from the 14th Ever-growing numbers of visitors inspired at the abbey mill (opened to the public many of the changes carried out by The present Fountains Abbey and Studley century until 1730, when it was purchased in 2001) and to the monastic precinct subsequent owners. The Marquis of Ripon Royal estate only became a single entity by John Aislabie and incorporated in the wall. The abbey ruins have been in the took over the estate in 1859. In 1870, he in 1767. In the medieval period, it was Studley Royal designed landscape. guardianship of the State since 1966 and commissioned the renowned architect comprised of three distinct components: their consolidation has progressed since The Studley Royal estate was owned William Burges to design St Mary’s Church that date. — Fountains Abbey monastic estate, both by the Mallory family from 1452 until (which was built between 1871 and 1878) inside the precinct wall boundary and 1667, when George Aislabie acquired it at the western end of the main vista across Fountains Abbey from foundation to some adjoining lands through marriage to Mary Mallory. The the park, aligned with Ripon Minster. dissolution deer park, probably of medieval origins, Although subsequent owners did not alter — Mackershaw Wood, a fragment of the is first recorded in 1577 and has been much of the Aislabies’ original design, Fountains Abbey was founded in 1132 by pre-Conquest estate of the Archbishop progressively extended. Studley Park, they slowly withdrew from its extremities a group of 13 dissident Benedictine monks of York which was landscaped with formal avenues whilst the lack of maintenance gradually who left St Mary’s Abbey in York in search in the later 17th century by George resulted in some landscape features of a more austere religious way of life. — the village of Studlei Magna in the Aislabie, retained its original manor house suffering irreversible decay. However, The abbey they founded became known present deer park, which became the until 1748, when it was largely rebuilt. the abbey ruins were well cared for, as ‘Sancta Maria de Fontibus’ (Charter of Studley Royal estate in the 16th century The associated landscape garden built especially during the second half of the Confirmation by Henry I, 1133) and joined the reformist Cistercian order as Fountains Abbey, founded in 1132 in by the Aislabies between 1670 and 1781 19th century, when major excavations and a daughter house of Clairvaux in France. unpromising circumstances, soon became made Studley Royal nationally famous; it research took place. In 1946, Studley Royal The Cistercian ideals of austerity, simplicity one of the richest and largest Cistercian was even referred to as ‘The Wonder of House was destroyed by fire. The historic

70 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 2 and solitude fulfilled the aspirations schemes for the creation of a new northern ownership of George Aislabie, following 1718 to 1742, John Aislabie developed the of the founders of Fountains Abbey. diocese, one of which included using the his marriage to Mary Mallory and the ‘Water Garden’ along the River Skell: the former Fountains Abbey estate as the death of the last male Mallory. canal was created and the valley bottom After a near collapse in the early years financial base. The eventual selection of levelled. Ponds, buildings, statues, formal (before the foundling abbey acquired Chester as the new cathedral freed up The origins of the deer park are not well hedges, new plantations and walks sufficient resources to support itself), Fountains Abbey for private sale. In 1540, it documented. Thomas de Bourne, lord followed, probably in three main phases of the period 1135-1265 marked the rapid was sold to Sir Richard Gresham, a London of the manor, obtained hunting rights development. The formal style of the valley expansion and growing economic influence merchant, who partially demolished it for over rabbits and small mammals (the bottom contrasts with the naturalistic of Fountains Abbey. Its first simple timber the sale and reuse of its building materials. right of Free Warren) in 1343. The first treatment of the wooded slopes. The new buildings were lost to arson in 1146, but documentation for a deer park dates from garden buildings and the abbey ruins are rebuilding in stone was already in hand The medieval origins of Studley Royal 1577. Red deer are native in this area. used as eye-catchers and create a complex when the fire was set, one of a series of network of contrived vistas, taking full Settlements in the general area of the Development and decay of the Aislabies’ redesigns in the course of the 12th century advantage of the topography of the Skell medieval village of Studley appear in designed landscape necessitated by increasing numbers of valley and of the presence of the abbey surveys of the Archbishop of York’s lands monks and lay-brothers. The current ruins. How Hill tower was the first eye- (‘Stodlege’, c.1030) and in the Domesday Studley’s earliest landscaping took place extent of the buildings complex was catcher, built in 1718. Survey (‘Stollai’ and ‘Estollai’) of 1086. The in the deer park, adopting the 17th century reached by the early 13th century, although fashion for formal avenues. The main first reference to the name ‘Studley Royal’ From 1742 to 1781, William Aislabie modification and replacement of buildings avenue and Studley Gate (framing the view does not appear until 1537. extended his father’s work. Following continued throughout the abbey’s life. of Ripon Cathedral) were probably created new fashions, he created a sublime Through gifts of land, Fountains Abbey The village of Studlei Magna, established in in 1670-1675 for George Aislabie. George’s landscape and an unusually early Chinese progressively extended its land holdings the late 12th century or early 13th century, early demise slowed development works, landscape in the Valley of Seven Bridges. throughout the north of England, building dwindled to just a few tenancies by 1360. but they were again in mind soon after It was a distinctive feature of Studley much of its wealth initially on the wool Development on this unpromising site in John Aislabie’s inheritance in 1693. Studley that William added to the early works trade. By 1150, it had founded eight the north of the present park, far from Royal House — the former medieval rather than remove them as many of his daughter houses (foundations of 12 monks water supplies, was prompted by the manor house — was renovated by John contemporaries did. When he ran out of and a prior sent out from Fountains construction of a road linking Ripon to the Aislabie after a fire in 1716 and then further space to expand at Studley, his solution Abbey). There was a progressive economic West Gate of the abbey. The village seems modified (twice) by his son William in was to develop gardens on other family and spiritual decline in the following to have had some unusually large houses, 1748-1752 and 1758-1762. It was modernised properties, at Laver Banks and especially centuries, ended by a period of recovery one of which was excavated in 1989-1991, again by the Marquis of Ripon in the 1860s. at Hackfall. Chronologically interwoven, under abbots Greenwell and Huby in the while traces of more humble dwellings have Fire completely destroyed the mansion in and physically linked, the three sites should late 15th and early 16th centuries. Lay- been found in the fields of Swanley Grange 1946. The extensive stable block (by Roger really be considered to be parts of one brothers were replaced by tenant farmers and in the park. Most of the present deer Morris, advised by Colen Campbell) built and the same designed landscape. In 1767 and servants, while the monastery was park was cultivated using ridge and furrow in 1728-1732 remains. William succeeded, where his father had further extended, more richly decorated, techniques, to improve drainage and soil failed, in buying the Fountains Abbey more comfortably furnished and the fertility. The earthworks of this system are In the 18th century a group of the gentry, estate. He landscaped and consolidated unique Huby’s Tower built. still visible extending over approximately nobility and rising moneyed classes the abbey ruins, which became an integral 300 acres. experiencing economic prosperity and In 1539, during the Dissolution of the political power developed and landscaped part of the Pleasure Gardens. He also Monasteries, Fountains Abbey was one The manor house remained occupied ‘Pleasure Gardens’ to extend their extended the designed landscape, in a of the richest Cistercian foundations long after the village became extinct, enjoyment of their great estates and naturalistic style, a further mile upstream in Britain. Henry VIII sequestrated the particularly by the Mallory family between demonstrate their wealth and taste to of the abbey, to Spa Gill wood. abbey’s valuables, and then contemplated 1452 and 1667. Studley then came into the others. In keeping with this fashion, from

Appendix 2 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 71 The year of William’s death, 1781, marks the John’s son William took the family seat an essential feature of the ‘tour of Land use history effective ‘high water mark’ for the designed in the Commons in 1721 and remained an the north’. landscape’s extent and sophistication. The MP until his death in 1781. The Aislabie The monks claimed they built Fountains 18th century landscape was little altered by name died out with William, the estate Visitor numbers were boosted to unusually Abbey in a wilderness. In reality the subsequent owners, who mainly respected being inherited by his daughter (Elizabeth high levels in the late 18th century and landscape around the Skell valley was and only modestly enhanced the original Allanson) and later a grand-daughter during the 19th century by the proximity probably already well managed in the design by their additions — Surprise View, (Elizabeth Sophia Lawrence) before the of the growing Spa at Harrogate. Studley 11th century. Small settlements (Swanley, De Grey Walk and St Mary’s Church. line was extinguished in 1845. Royal was ideally placed to provide an Morker, Studley) practised low intensity Meanwhile many features disappeared outing for those ‘taking the waters’. The agriculture, exploiting surrounding and the maintained part of the grounds Studley then passed to Earl de Grey and relatively early arrival of the railway in woodland and scrub. Gradually the abbey contracted through lack of maintenance, then to his nephew the first Marquis of Ripon and Harrogate in 1848 made the established more intensive agriculture especially in Chinese Wood, Spa Gill, How Ripon in 1859. The Marquis was one of estate accessible to the populations of across its home grange farms. the elder statesmen of his time, Viceroy the Yorkshire, Lancashire (and latterly Hill and in the area behind the Banqueting At Studley Royal, the deer park was House. A number of decaying buildings of India in 1880-1884, and a freemason of Teesside) manufacturing towns. The the highest rank. He married his cousin, earliest known school visit is recorded progressively extended, and land use and features from the late 18th century gradually changed from mixed agricultural were removed by the first Marquis of Henrietta Vyner, from Newby Hall. His in 1851, with first reference to the son, the second Marquis, was a celebrated availability of food for visitors on the to grazed parkland between the 16th Ripon c.1870. The lost features include the and 18th centuries. As the woodland bathing house, the Belvedere, the Tent on shot who developed the Studley Royal site of the present Studley Café in 1854. pheasant shoot and received Edward As early as 1853, a one shilling entrance resource became scarcer, the Archbishop Tent Hill, the Chinese building, lost vistas of York jealously guarded his woods at and statuary. VII and George V at Studley on several fee, professional guided tours and occasions. estate regulations were in place. At the Mackershaw. Only in the Skell valley, The families who owned the estate inauguration of St Mary’s Church in 1878, too rough and wet for agricultural The early owners of the Fountains estate the estate is said to have welcomed about development, did scrub land survive. The Mallory family, medieval owners of were not well-known public figures, 30,000 visitors. Few rural attractions can The Aislabies incorporated the existing Studley for two centuries, rose to local especially the Messenger family. Their have rivalled such visitor numbers at that trees in the valley scrub in their designed and national significance under Elizabeth I. Catholic faith, royalist persuasion in the time. The first floodlighting of the abbey landscape and planted both new and The family provided Ripon’s first Members Civil War, and often dubious liquidity in 1932 was initiated by the Vyners to native species, in particular many yew of Parliament in the 17th century. encouraged ‘quiet living’ during the 140 commemorate the 800th anniversary of trees. Mackershaw was annexed as a years that the Messengers owned the the foundation of the abbey; its popularity further deer park in the 1740s, while the George Aislabie, although of much Fountains estate between 1627 and 1767. eventually leading to the permanent Pleasure Garden was extended to the humbler stock (he was a yeoman farmer’s installation of lighting, which permitted abbey precincts and beyond after 1767. son), joined gentry circles after inheriting The history of tourism at Fountains evening visiting. £20,000 from the family of his former Abbey and Studley Royal At the end of the 19th century a pheasant employer. He was therefore able to seek the After the National Trust acquired the shoot was developed in the grounds and The earliest ‘tourists’ at Fountains Abbey hand of Mary Mallory (her family having estate in 1983, a visitor centre was built a golf course existed in the deer park were antiquarians, first recorded being been impoverished by the Civil War) and in 1992 to help reduce the congestion of from 1891 to 1927. The pheasant shoot drawn to the abbey ruins in the 1660s ultimately secured mastery of the Studley the historic area, and deal with visitor continued and the shooting interest was (although a connection between Fountains Royal estate. He was killed in a duel in 1676, numbers which had grown to around sold into private hands when the Studley Abbey and the Yorkshire version of the leaving 12 children. John Aislabie, his third 300,000 a year. Royal estate was broken up in 1966. son, was MP for Ripon from 1695 until 1721, Robin Hood legend may have origins with Chancellor of the Exchequer in 1718-1720, medieval visitors). Studley Royal landscape and was expelled from Parliament after the garden added a further attraction in the South Sea Bubble scandal. 18th century, and the estate soon became

72 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 2 Appendix 3: Planning and policy framework for Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal World Heritage Site

There are a range of policy and National Policy Further legislative framework for the (2009); and Local Planning Guidance historic environment, relevant to Fountains which includes the Heritage Management management frameworks which National planning policy direction is apply to the Fountains Abbey and Abbey and Studley Royal, is provided by: Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) provided by the National Planning 2014. The Council’s Sites and Policies Studley Royal World Heritage Site. Policy Framework (NPPF) http:// — the Town and Country Planning Development Plan Document (DPD) This section does not attempt to planningguidance.planningportal.gov.uk/ Act 1990 Submission Draft had to be withdrawn wp-content/themes/planning-guidance/ at its Examination in May 2014, and as a be exhaustive but only captures — the Planning (Listed Buildings and assets/NPPF.pdf which sets out the result the Council is now preparing a new some of the key strategic policies. Conservation Areas) Act 1990, which Government’s planning policies for Local Plan, with the aim that it should be Much of the relevant legislation provides specific protection for buildings England and how these are expected to adopted in 2018, replacing the saved Local and areas of special architectural or will apply to specific elements be applied. It is supported by the National Plan policies and the Core Strategy. The historic interest or assets within the site (such as Planning Policy Guidance (NPPG), a web latest version of the Local Plan can be protected species or archaeology), based resource which brings together — the Ancient Monuments and viewed at http://www.harrogate.gov.uk/ current planning policy guidance http:// and no attempt is made to record Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which plan/Pages/LDF.aspx. planningguidance.planningportal.gov.uk/ provides specific protection for all elements here. The National Trust and English Heritage, blog/guidance/. scheduled monuments as site managers, had worked closely The NPPF includes the appropriate Any decisions relating to listed buildings with Harrogate Borough Council in the conservation of heritage assets as one and their setting must address the preparation of their draft Sites and Policies of its ‘Core Planning Principles’ which statutory considerations of the Planning Development Plan Document to ensure underpins the planning system (Paragraph (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) policies were included which gave the 17 bullet 10). This is expanded upon Act 1990 (see in particular sections 16, 66 buffer zone, and therefore the outstanding principally in Section 12 Conserving and 72) as well as satisfying the relevant universal value of the World Heritage and enhancing the historic environment policies within the National Planning Policy Site itself, a level of protection. This same (Paragraphs 126-141), but policies giving Framework and the relevant Local Plan. level of work will continue throughout the effect to this objective also appear preparation of the new Local Plan. elsewhere in the NPPF. Paragraphs 132, Local Policy 137 and 138 in particular make reference In the meantime, the relevant saved to World Heritage Sites, and emphasise The Local Planning Authority for Fountains policies from the Harrogate Local Plan that the greater the significance of a Abbey and Studley Royal is Harrogate (2001) are HD7, HD7A, HD3, HD13, C1 designated heritage asset, the greater the Borough Council. At the time of writing and C2, all of which have been saved weight that should be given to the asset’s (2014), local planning policy is provided by the Secretary of State’s Direction conservation. In particular, it notes that by the Harrogate District Local Plan under paragraph 1(3) of Schedule 8 to the presumption in favour of sustainable (2001 Selective Alteration 2004 and the Planning and Compulsory Purchase development may not apply to designated Direction (Saved Version 2007)) and its Act 2004, and are therefore a material heritage assets (Paragraph 14 footnote 9). associated Policies Map; the Core Strategy consideration in determining planning

Appendix 3 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 73 applications. Policy HD7 refers it is likely to continue to be under The Harrogate District Core Strategy specifically to development within considerable pressure from visitors. The 2009 also contains objectives and policies with landowners and interested parties. the World Heritage Site. site attracts in excess of 400,000 visitors of particular relevance to Fountains Abbey Subject to the District’s need to plan a year. This may from time to time require and Studley Royal. These are objectives 18 for new greenfield development, the Policy HD7 — WORLD HERITAGE SITE the provision of facilities to improve the and 19, and Policy EQ2, as follows. landscape character of the whole interpretation of the site’s interest or to Core Strategy Objective 18: District will be protected and where Development within the World manage the pressures from visitors within appropriate enhanced. the site. Access for the elderly and disabled Heritage Site of Studley Royal Park and To protect and enhance the built and must continue together with rights of Fountains Abbey will only be permitted natural environment, including biodiversity The extent and detailed boundaries way through the parkland for the general in very exceptional circumstances and landscape character, giving special of the West Yorkshire and York Green public. (See Policy R11 of this Plan) where there is no adverse effect on the protection towards those areas and Belts in the District will not be changed. cultural, natural and manmade interest Policies HD7A and C2 are also of particular buildings of recognised importance. Where criteria based planning which led to the site’s designation and relevance to Fountains Abbey and Studley (Relating to Policy EQ2) policies cannot provide the either: Royal WHS, in providing protection to Core Strategy Objective 19: necessary protection, local landscape A. It is required to enhance the the Registered Park and Garden and designations will be identified: interpretation of the site’s cultural, encouraging restoration of the historic To encourage exemplar design quality — to protect the high quality of the natural and man-made interest for landscape. which safeguards the distinctive character landscape which is important to the visitors; or of the District’s settlements and minimises setting of the towns of Harrogate, Policy HD7A — PARKS AND GARDENS impact on the environment, particularly in B. It is essential for the management of Knaresborough and Ripon; OF HISTORIC INTEREST sensitive areas. (Relating to Policies EQ1, the site or of visitors to the site. EQ2, SG4) — to protect those ‘green wedges’ Development will not be permitted The Council will encourage appropriate Policy EQ2 aims to protect and enhance in Harrogate town which are an conservation and restoration measures. where it would adversely affect the important part of its character character or setting of parks and the District’s character, biodiversity, landscape and heritage, including the and distinctiveness; The setting and views of the site are gardens included in the English World Heritage Site. protected by policies C2 and HD7A Heritage Register of Parks and Gardens — to protect appropriate green space of this Plan and will be afforded the of Special Historic Interest. within the main built up areas of strictest protection. Policy EQ2: THE NATURAL Group A, B, and C settlements listed AND BUILT ENVIRONMENT in Policy SG2 of this Core Strategy.

Policy C2 — LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AND GREEN BELT The supporting text in paragraph 6.48 of Priority measures to protect and the Local Plan goes on to recognise that, Development should protect existing The District’s exceptionally high quality enhance the District’s natural and built although being afforded the highest level landscape character. In locations natural and built environment will be environment are to: of protection, certain development may where restoration of the landscape is given a level of protection appropriate still be required. — increase wildlife habitats and species necessary or desirable, opportunities to its international, national and local in accordance with the District’s should be taken for the design and importance. In addition, more detailed (Para 6.48) As such this site and its Biodiversity Action Plan; environs must be afforded the strictest landscaping of development proposals protection and where appropriate of protection from development which to repair or reintroduce landscape enhancement measures will be applied — review and update the Council’s could be harmful to its cultural, natural features, to the extent that this is through the Development Control local Sites of Importance for Nature and man-made interest. The very nature justified by the effects of the proposal. Policies DPD, relevant management Conservation; and importance of this site means that plans and by working in partnership

74 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 3 The full guidance is available at — improve the condition of the http://www.harrogate.gov.uk/plan/Pages/ e) Development within the World b) Proposals that would cause District’s Sites of Special Scientific Heritage-SPD.aspx. Heritage Site Buffer Zone that would substantial loss to the significance of Interest; adversely affect the significance of the a listed building will be permitted only World Heritage Site, and particularly where this harm is outweighed by the — carry out appraisals of the District’s General principles for development affecting key views, will be allowed only public benefits of the proposal; Conservation Areas incorporating that would affect the World Heritage in exceptional circumstances; measures for the protection and Site including development in its c) Listed Buildings will be conserved enhancement of their special Buffer Zone: f) Development proposals within and, where appropriate, enhanced. interest; the Buffer Zone will be permitted Loss of any significance should be a) Development that would cause only where it can be demonstrated minimised, and will be permitted only — reduce the number of ‘Buildings at substantial harm to the significance that the scheme will conserve those where any harm is justified by the Risk’; and of the World Heritage Site (its elements, which contribute towards public benefits of the proposal. Outstanding Universal Value) will be — ensure that new development the Outstanding Universal Value of allowed only in wholly exceptional d) New development affecting a incorporates high quality locally the World Heritage Site. circumstances; listed building or its setting should distinctive design. incorporate high quality design. b) Development proposals that are General principles for development In 2014, the Council approved the likely to have an impact upon the Heritage Management Guidance as a that would affect a Scheduled Ancient World Heritage Site or its setting General principles for development Supplementary Planning Document. The Monument: will be permitted only where it can that would affect a conservation area: guidance has been drafted in line with be demonstrated that the scheme a) Scheduled Ancient Monuments will the National Planning Policy Framework will conserve those elements, which be conserved and, where appropriate, a) Proposals in or affecting the setting and supports Core Strategy Policy EQ2 contribute towards its Outstanding enhanced; of a conservation area should preserve by providing detailed guidance on how Universal Value; or enhance those elements that make heritage and design guidance policies b) Development will not be allowed a positive contribution to the special will be applied in decision making. The c) New development within the that would destroy Scheduled Ancient character and appearance of the area; guidance includes a number of appendices World Heritage Site or affecting its Monuments or their settings; in the form of a ‘living document’ which setting should incorporate the highest b) Development should be in means they can be updated as and when standard of landscape and architectural c) When considering applications accordance with the guidance on necessary. The guidance also sets out design; for development on or affecting the Managing Change in the relevant the direction for management of the setting of a monument, the overriding Conservation Area Appraisal; historic environment, explaining the d) Key views and vistas will be consideration will be the effect on the threats and identifying the key priorities protected. There will be a strong significance of the heritage asset. c) Demolition or other substantial loss for the Council to ensure that the vision presumption against tall or very large to the significance of a building or and objectives for the District’s historic buildings within the World Heritage feature that contributes positively to environment are achieved and maintained Site or its visual setting; General principles for development the conservation area will be permitted in the long term. It contains a number of that would affect a Listed Building: only where this harm is outweighed by references to the World Heritage Site, the public benefits of the proposal; including recognition of the buffer zone. a) The total or substantial demolition of The key principles below are all taken from a listed building will be permitted only the Heritage Management Guidance. in exceptional circumstances;

Appendix 3 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 75 Other relevant planning advice is contained Relevant policies include: The Ripon City Plan d) Development of public or private within the Harrogate District Landscape open space that contributes positively Character Assessment Supplementary — Policy HE1 — Protect the historic The Ripon City Plan is currently under to the conservation area will be Planning Guidance (2004). The Landscape landscape and features of archaeological preparation and will be a detailed strategy permitted only where this harm is Character Areas that apply to this location importance by resisting inappropriate for the future of the parish of Ripon. This outweighed by the public benefits of are Area 30 (Vale Fringe south of River development and supporting owners is a Neighbourhood Plan and is being the proposal; Skell and Skell Corridor) and Area 44 and managers to improve condition prepared in accordance with the provisions (Aldfield to Studley Vale Fringe Farmland) where possible of the Localism Act of 2011. This allows e) The removal of trees that provide which includes the World Heritage local communities to produce a plan for substantial visual amenity will require — Policy HE2 — Support innovative Site itself. their local area, putting in place planning strong justification. proposals for sustainable future use of policies for the development and growth In November 2014 the Council adopted historic buildings and structures where of their neighbourhood. Once adopted the the Green Infrastructure Supplementary this does not cause unacceptable harm Neighbourhood Plan will form part of the General principles for development Planning Document (SPD). This seeks to to the asset or the wider landscape Local Development Plan and must be used that would affect a Registered Historic enhance the natural and built environment to determine planning applications. Park and Garden: — Policy HE3 — Encourage initiatives of the District by helping applicants designed to increase awareness and and developers ensure that proposals The development of the plan is being a) Development should not detract understanding of archaeology and the for development make the most of led by the Ripon City Plan Committee from the enjoyment, layout, design, historic environment opportunities to improve existing and comprising representatives of the Ripon character, appearance or setting of that City Council and a number of other create new green infrastructure and will — Policy L1 — Promote awareness and landscape, cause harm to key views interested organisations and people from be used as a material consideration when understanding of the special qualities from or towards these landscapes, across the city. considering planning applications. of the AONB or where appropriate prejudice their The National Trust and Historic England future restoration. http://www.harrogate.gov.uk/plan/Pages/ — Policy L2 — Maintain and enhance the have been working with the Ripon GI-Guide.aspx special qualities of the AONB’s landscape City Plan Committee to ensure that including priority wildlife habitats and the UNESCO approved buffer zone is General principles for development in The Nidderdale AONB Management Plan restore damaged or degraded features the AONB: (2014-19) sets out policies to maintain protected, particularly the main vista landscape character, biodiversity and the http://www.nidderdaleaonb.org.uk/ from the WHS to Ripon Cathedral and a) Within the Nidderdale AONB, historic environment within the AONB Documents/ManagementPlan2014-2019_ beyond to Blois Hall Farm. A preliminary priority will be given to the whilst promoting peoples enjoyment Final.pdf draft Ripon City Plan went out for conservation of the natural beauty of of the area, promoting tourism and consultation in October and November the landscape; improving accessibility. 2014 and includes proposals to define Ripon’s skyline and control development b) Development proposals will be proposals that may affect it. Whilst the expected to demonstrate high detailed wording of policies in the plan is standards of design, which should still being developed, and will need to be reflect local distinctiveness and, where tested at Examination, the intention is that appropriate, mitigation to ensure the the policy will support the Studley Royal continued protection of the special and Fountains Abbey Buffer Zone and qualities of the AONB. ensure that development in Ripon does not impinge on views from the WHS across Ripon.

76 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 3 Appendix 4: List of World Heritage Site stakeholders

Steering Group Representatives of English Heritage Trust and Historic England

Tony Earnshaw Assistant Director of Operations (National Trust) Keith Emerick Inspector of Ancient Monuments, Yorkshire and the Humber Chris Fowler General Manager at Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Neil Redfern Team Leader, Yorkshire and the Humber (National Trust) Tammy Whitaker Planning and Conservation Director, Yorkshire and the Humber Sarah Parkinson WHS Coordinator (National Trust) Liz Page Historic Properties Director North Dave Allenby Head of Planning and Development (Harrogate Borough Council) Henry Owen-John Head of International Advice Deborah Wall Historic Places Principal Adviser, Yorkshire and the Humber Clea Warner Area Manager, Yorkshire (Historic England) Mark Douglas Curator Peter Goodchild Landscape Conservator (ICOMOS-UK) Ian Fielding Assistant Director Waste and Countryside Services (North National Agencies and Organisations Yorkshire County Council) ICOMOS-UK Representatives of NT World Heritage UK Michael Ridsdale Head of Landscape at Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Natural England Roy Phillips Operations Manager at Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Environment Agency Alexa Morton Visitor Experience & Marketing Manager at Fountains Abbey & National Heritage Training Academy Studley Royal Kate Gardner Consultancy Manager Local Authority Representatives Barbara Hooper Planning Adviser Ann Johnson Conservation and Design Officer, Harrogate Borough Council Mark Newman Consultant — Archaeologist Andrew Siddall Planning Liaison Officer, Harrogate Borough Council Stephen Morley Wildlife & Countryside Adviser Paul Burgess Nidderdale AONB Joanna Royle Head of Marketing & Supporter Development Heather Garnett Chair of the Nidderdale AONB Heritage Steering Group Ruth Benson Landscape Officer, North Yorkshire County Council Gail Falkingham Historic Environment Team Leader, North Yorkshire County Council

Appendix 4 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 77 Interest Groups Neighbouring landowners

Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust Local residents and landowners Welcome to Yorkshire Spiritual and Community Matters The Ramblers Association Ripon Cathedral Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust Local churches Yorkshire Wildlife Trust Ripon Centre for Voluntary Services National Trust Volunteer Representatives

Open Country Guides Coordinator, National Trust York, North Yorkshire & East Riding Local Enterprise Partnership Information Assistants Trainer, National Trust Greater Ripon Improvement Partnership Research Coordinator, National Trust Yorkshire Gardens Trust Visitor Assistant Coordinator, National Trust Ripon Civic Society Guides Trainer, National Trust Harrogate Naturalists Society Info Assistant Coordinator, National Trust Nidderdale Historic Parks and Gardens Study Group Ripon City Plan Committee Members Educational Representation Ripon City Development Manager Representative from local schools, colleges & universities National Trust Harrogate and Dales Association Other WHS Representatives Visit Harrogate World Heritage Site Coordinator, Durham WHS Local Community representatives World Heritage Officer, Saltaire WHS Cllr. Mick Stanley The Worshipful Mayor of Ripon Cllr Jim Clark The Worshipful Mayor of Harrogate Cllr Nigel Simms (Deputy Mayor — Harrogate) Chair of Nidderdale AONB Joint Advisory Committee Robin Dennis Markington Parish Council Derrick Slater Fountains Abbey (including Aldfield, Lindrick with Studley Royal & Fountains) Parish Council Cllr Margaret Atkinson District Councillor Masham and Fountains — NYCC Cllr Alan Skidmore Heritage Champion & Planning & Transport Manager

78 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 4 Appendix 5: Outcomes of the public consultation

Introduction Trust, Historic England, Harrogate The site has good links with the local All groups and individuals with an interest Borough Council, North Yorkshire County community and the surrounding in the site were offered opportunities to This document comprises the engagement Council and ICOMOS-UK. This group met landowners and parish councils. Ripon is participate through a questionnaire on the strategy that is a key component in the at key stages in the plan process to review right on the doorstep of the site and it was website and social media. process of reviewing the World Heritage consultation responses and approve the felt that an event in Ripon Town Hall would Site Management Plan for Fountains Abbey consultation draft and final plan. be a good way to engage the surrounding Opportunities were also taken to discuss and Studley Royal during 2014. Its main communities in the early stages of issues for the review of the plan through aim is to ensure that all those involved The World Heritage Site Stakeholder development of the plan. The event was membership and representation on with the WHS including staff, volunteers, Group has met annually over the last a manned family friendly event on a existing committees and forums such as visitors, stakeholders and the local 3 years at World Heritage Stakeholder weekend with displays, maps and questions Local Business Forums, Local Tourism community are consulted about proposed events organised by the National Trust. about the World Heritage Site and also Networks and the AONB Joint Advisory objectives and have an opportunity to This group includes representatives from some fun activities for children. The event Committee. comment and feel ownership of the future key organisations and agencies such as was held on the 22nd March 2014 and over A summary of the content and timetable of their World Heritage Site. This report Nidderdale AONB, Environment Agency, 100 people attended. also includes a summary of the outcomes Welcome to Yorkshire, the Yorkshire for this first phase of consultation is set of the public consultation. These were Gardens Trust, local parish councils and Visitor involvement is also an important out on the page opposite. element in development of the plan taken into consideration in producing Ripon City Council, Harrogate Borough The staff/volunteer, community and and some fun consultation activities for the management plan. Council and neighbouring landowners. visitor events all followed a similar This group were involved in developing the visitors were held as part of the annual Consultation and Engagement format. There was a large plan of the vision for the WHS and identifying issues World Heritage Weekend. The weekend World Heritage Site and another plan of for the review at a workshop in September usually includes an exhibition about the Two phases of involvement/consultation the WHS and surrounding area mounted 2013. A further facilitated session with World Heritage Site and family activities on the development of the plan were held. on polystyrene on a table in the centre this group was held in November 2014 to and these were extended to include of the room. Participants were able to — Phase 1: An informal/open consultation launch the consultation on the draft plan. opportunities to comment on the future stick flags in the map to mark ideas for on the issues for the review. Events ran management of the site. The National Trust property staff projects or particular issues such as areas from February to May 2014 and volunteers are involved on a daily Key individuals and partners with a that flood. There were a series of posters around the room which set out some of ­— Phase 2: Formal consultation on the basis in the full range of issues around special interest or delivery role in a the key issues for the management plan draft plan, for an 8 week period from management and operation of the site. particular plan issue were involved in such as conservation, climate change, December 2014 to January 2015 This group plays a key role in delivery reviewing the plan through discussions/ of the plan and it is vital to tap into their meetings. Many of those partners were environmental performance, visitor There were a number of key groups knowledge and experience of the site. already involved in the plan through the experience, sustainable management, involved in development of the plan. A number of manned drop-in sessions Stakeholder Group. protecting the site and setting. where volunteers and staff could pin Accompanying these facts and figures The WHS Steering Group has overall ideas on maps and answer questions posters were some key questions which ownership of the Plan. The members are on topics such as visitor experience and asked for views on how the plan should the National Trust, the English Heritage conservation were held in March 2014. address these issues.

Appendix 5 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 79 Key topics include: Who? When? Where? How? What? — conservation — nature conservation, WHS Steering Winter 2013/14 Fountains Abbey All formal meetings Approve engagement strategy; timetable; parks and gardens, historic buildings and Group & Studley Royal objectives landscape, promotion of heritage skills 7th May 2014 Review consultation outcomes — climate change 3rd June 2014 Agree consultation draft plan — water management and flooding February 2015 Review consultation responses & agree — environmental performance final plan — protecting the WHS, buffer zone WHS Stakeholder 26th Sept 2013 Fountains Abbey Annual meetings Facilitated sessions to consider the draft & setting and boundary review Group & Studley Royal plan before publication 20th Nov 2014 — visitor experience

Property staff 5th & 6th March Fountains Abbey Drop in sessions Displays/provision for written comments — learning & volunteers 2014 & Studley Royal — volunteering Community 22nd March 2014 Ripon Town Hall Drop in session plus Displays/provision for written comments — green transport and access family activities The first phase of consultation informed Visitors Annual WHS FASR Swanley Drop in sessions Displays/provision for written comments the content of the draft plan. There Weekend May Bank Grange/ Fountains plus family was then a second more formal phase Holiday 2014 Hall activities of consultation on the draft plan from December 2014 to January 2015 where all Specialists & key March & April 2014 Fountains Abbey Discussion/ Meetings with key partners to develop groups and individuals had the opportunity partner agencies/ & Studley Royal Meetings actions around key topics. to comment on the content of the draft organisations plan through an online questionnaire All groups March 2014 Short questionnaire Newsletters, social Opportunities provided to comment for and on-site comment forms. on website March media & website all groups re social media, Wiki etc. 2014, newsletters, social media

Some basic data on numbers of people and help people participate. Members of In addition to these events there were responding, age, where they live, whether the Steering Group also attended some of discussions/meetings to engage those they are frequent visitors to the site was the events. The staff/volunteer event and involved in delivery of objectives and collected. The events were all run on an visitor events were held on the site and the projects in the plan. These have been used informal drop-in basis. The World Heritage community event in Ripon Town Hall. This to inform the content of the 6 Year Action Site Coordinator and other property staff event was kindly supported by the Ripon Plan, a key element of the World Heritage were at all the events to answer questions Mayor and Ripon City Plan Group. Site Management Plan.

80 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 5 Jul-15 Jul-14 Jan-15 Jun-15 Jan-14 Apr-15 Jun-14 Feb-15 Apr-14 Oct-13 Oct-14 Feb-14 Sep-15 Mar-15 Sep-13 Sep-14 Dec-13 Mar-14 Aug-15 Dec-14 Aug-14 Nov-13 May-15 Nov-14 May-14

Review of current Plan

WHS Stakeholder event 26 September

Action plan of current plan reviewed

Engagement strategy produced

WHS Steering Group agree enagagement strategy: 22 January Consultation

Discussions on key management issues with partners

Engagement with property staff & volunteers: 5 & 6 March

Community engagement event at Ripon Town Hall: 22 March

Visitor engagement at World Heritage Weekend: 3, 4 & 5 May

Online and paper questionnaire launched

WHS Steering Group to review Draft Consultation Report Drafting the Plan

Draft the chapters of the plan

WHS Steering Group review objectives chapter of draft plan Consultation on the draft Plan

WHS Steering Group meet to sign off draft plan for consultation

Stakeholder meeting to consider actions of draft plan: 20 Nov

Draft plan published for consultation: 8 weeks Nov to Jan

Summary of draft plan produced

WHS Steering Group review consultation responses March Amending and finalising the Plan

Amend the Plan following consultation

Submit Plan to DCMS for endorsement and send to UNESCO

Printing and launch of Plan

Appendix 5 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 81 Results of the first phase Conservation of consultation September Comments Who WHSMP Response 2013 to November 2014 Link natural and cultural landscape. Stakeholder Group Section 1.3 Other Values, Objective J & A summary of the results of the Nature conservation and geological actions under J consultation are listed under topic assets should be emphasised more. headings and these have informed the draft management plan. Not all the topics Explore external funding opportunities Stakeholder Group Objective C & actions C5 & C6 were covered at all the consultation events, for conservation for example the visitor event focussed Expand the role of the WHS in promoting Stakeholder Group Objective O & action O7 on the visitor experience. Where possible, and sharing experience we have indicated how the comment has been reflected in the draft plan. Stop the Shoot in the abbey area Staff/volunteer & community Shooting rights outside NT ownership

Reduce strimming/short grass around Staff/volunteer Comment picked up as part of abbey presentation of site

Record & conserve monastic paintwork Staff/volunteer Action J5

Conserve Quebec area of the garden Staff/volunteer Action J1

More wildflowers — snowdrops Community Objective J, protect existing species & magnificent habitats

More information about the conservation Community Objective J & Action J3 work on site

Improve access to Galand Bridge Staff/volunteer Access to this area is restricted by the Shooting Rights

Water Management

Comments Who WHSMP Response

Water management and flooding a Stakeholder Group Objective L, Action L1 serious issue upstream & downstream which needs serious consideration. Consider interventions upstream, flood storage barriers etc

82 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 5 Involve Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust as Stakeholder Group Objective L, Action L9 key partner

Open dialogue with upstream Staff/volunteer Objective L, Action L1 landowners re: flood plain, woodland planting initiatives

Fill in grips on moorland that were Staff/volunteer Objective L, Action L1 dredged in the 1960s

Work with landowners in upper Staff/volunteer Objective L, Action L1 catchment area, blocking drainage on upland/moorland area

More small dams to control flood water Community Objective L, Action L1 & use water management as education topic

Reduce impact of flooding on features on Staff/volunteer Objective L & actions the site

Consider a silt trap upstream that can be Staff/volunteer Objective L, Action L1 emptied/dredged on a regular basis

Dredge Half Moon Reservoir Staff/volunteer Action L2

Repair lake outfall cascade Staff/volunteer Action L5

Environmental Performance

Comments Who WHSMP Response

Improve energy efficiency of buildings Community & Staff/volunteer Action K2

Ensure all staff recycle & improve their Staff/volunteer Action K3 & K7 environmental behaviour i.e. turning off lights/computers

Recycle food waste Staff/volunteer Action K6

Explore opportunities for renewable Visitors Objective K & actions energy & reducing energy usage

Appendix 5 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 83 Tell people more about the Staff/volunteer Action K7 environmental ethos on site through social media and information on the site

Finance and Resources

Comments Who WHSMP Response

Improve arrival experience at the Visitor Stakeholder Action C2 Centre

Various improvements suggested Staff/volunteer Action C2 to Visitor Centre including create a dedicated function suite, provide outside covered area, move the offices out of the Visitor Centre and put shop back to its original location in the Visitor Centre. Make the Visitor Centre more of a hub for the estate.

Continue to make more links with local Community & Staff/volunteer Objective R & Action R5 producers & work in partnership with them to provide more information/ interpretation about their work

Improve admission and retail space Staff/volunteer Action C2 at the Studley entrance, considering reconfiguration of current building use (possibly converting toilet block building)

Enhance catering facilities at Studley Staff/volunteer Action C2 with the provision of a new kiosk

Investigate feasibility of moving West Staff/volunteer Focus for this plan to look at Studley & Gate admission point to opposite West Visitor Centre admission points Gate car park

84 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 5 Community and Volunteering

Comments Who WHSMP Response

Have a Ripon day or community day Community & staff/volunteer Objective M & Action M8 plus provision with free entry or reduced cost entry of Ripon Resident passes as cost is a barrier to some local families

Provide discount for Ripon residents Community Objective M & Action M8 plus provision of Ripon Resident passes

Give more talks to local community Staff/volunteer Objective Q, Action Q1 & Q2 about what we do & how we operate

Invite specific local groups from the Staff/volunteer Objective Q Action Q1 & Q2 community for tour of the estate like WI & Mothers & Toddlers

Have community groups to work in Staff/volunteer Action Q2 garden or have a plot of land that community groups look after

Make more links with local disability Staff/volunteer Actions M1 & M2 groups

Improve trails connecting the estate Stakeholder Action S5 to the local area

Improve exit message, signpost drivers Stakeholder Action R5 & R6. Look at action for final to Ripon & highlight places to go in Ripon draft after closing

Broaden volunteering offer — volunteers Staff/volunteer Objective P & Action P1 to support general work of caretakers plus introduce visitor experience team who help bring history to life

Work with volunteers to create new Staff/volunteer Action P7 offers for visitors

Create a weekend gardening team Community & staff/volunteer Look at as part of delivery of Action P1

Appendix 5 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 85 Encourage more crossover between Staff/volunteer Look at as part of delivery of Action P1 the different volunteer teams

Involve teenagers more with volunteering Community Action P1 on the site.

Provide more working holidays Community Currently our emphasis on more regular volunteering & corporate volunteering which has greater take up

Visitor Experience

Comments Who WHSMP Response

Improve play area for young children Community, Visitors & Staff/volunteer Objective N — consider more specific action around play

Do more for toddlers & small children Visitors & Staff/volunteer Objective N — consider more specific action around play

Use Swanley Grange as a family Staff/volunteer Objective N — consider more specific picnic area action around play

More play around the estate — tree Visitors & Staff/volunteer Objective N — consider more specific houses in Quebec, play in the deer park action around play

More recreational facilities such as boats Staff/volunteer Objective N — consider more specific on lake & ‘Go Ape’ style area action around play.

More events like Park Run & keep Park Visitors & Community Action Q3 Run going

More paths for use by cyclists Community Current plan priority to look at cycle links with Ripon. Any use of path by cyclists needs to not impact on walking visitors.

Various use suggested for Fountains Community & Staff/volunteer Action N1 Hall — make the Hall come alive, use as exhibition space, use for storytelling, drama, dinners etc. Look at presentation & interpretation of Hall. Hold open days in the Hall and access to more rooms in the Hall. Furnish the Hall.

86 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 5 Provide arts exhibition area in Visitor & Staff/volunteer Action N1 Visitor Centre

Use Piety for art & explore other Staff/volunteer Action N1 art opportunities

Use Swanley Grange for more workshops Staff/volunteer Action N1

Hold more concerts, events & plays on Community Currently hold a programme of events & the estate plays on site

Look at more use of apps & other Stakeholder Objective N technology to interpret the ‘spirit of place’ i.e. augmented reality/smart phones etc

Buy Studley Stables for interpretation Stakeholder Other priorities for spend over plan period i.e. conservation and interpretation within buildings already in NT ownership

Use Visitor Centre as interpretive space Community & Stakeholder Action N1 for experience ahead

Provide more costumed re-enactors Staff/volunteer, Community & Visitors Action N1

Link the story of the site to places Staff/volunteer Action N1 to N2 in York & Ripon

Provide artefacts for people to handle Visitor Consider as part of Action N2. There in Porters Lodge are already objects in Porters Lodge for handling.

Provide fun activities for adults too Visitor Actions N1 & N2

More nature interpretation — nature Staff/volunteer & Visitor Consider as part of N1 & N2 groups, trails in deer park, bird ringing, Tabernacles as bird hide

Recreate the past with sound — sound Community & staff/volunteer Action N2 in the abbey

Appendix 5 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 87 Make more use of the mill area — Community Action N1 & N3 workshops & activities, make artisan bread, brew ale etc. More interpretation of industrial archaeology

Provide an information point as visitors Staff/volunteer Action N1 — consider as part of Visitor leave Admissions Centre proposals

Improve signage, currently poor. Staff/volunteer Action D1 Suggestions made for signs.

Replace toilet block at Studley with Staff/volunteer Action N1 — considered as part of study visitor information point plus holiday to look at Visitor Centre & Studley cottage display in Fountains Hall entrances

Provide more walks leaflets Stakeholder Action S5

Look at monastic routes & Ripon Stakeholder Action S5 to Fountains Walk

Provide more interpretation (boards, Community, Visitors & Staff/volunteer Interpretation considered under guides, tours) — Fountains Hall, garden Objective N. buildings, ice houses, lost buildings of Studley House & Bathing House, Seven Bridges, deer park, Mackershaw.

Interpretation & displays at Swanley Staff/volunteer Action N1 Grange — introduce abbey story

Open up more garden buildings with Staff/volunteer Action N2 — consider as part of water more information guides. Look at garden interpretation approach dedicated ‘experience’ team

Rebuild abbey boundary wall between Staff/volunteer This would have to be considered abbey and Tent Hill with info board or as part of conservation approach & picture of what it would have looked like interpretation in the abbey.

Improve welcome leaflet Visitor Objective N

Provide visitor toilets at abbey tea room Visitors & Staff/volunteer Action D1

88 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 5 Provide more litter bins & dog bins Community & Staff/volunteer Action D1 (locations specified)

Provide more seating Community & Visitors Action D1

Learning (specific question only asked at Stakeholder Meeting & Staff/Volunteer Sessions)

Comments Who WHSMP Response

Learning & intellectual interpretation Stakeholder Learning is covered under the to be included in vision ‘understanding’ bullet point of Vision

Educational offering should include WHS Stakeholder Objective O & Action O7 & its role and should include options beyond schools

Sponsor post-graduate degrees Stakeholder Objective O & actions. Don’t have a specific action on this

Shortage of lifelong learning in Ripon — Stakeholder Objective O & actions raise awareness of what we do on site & look at links with other organisations

More living history experiences Staff/volunteer Objective O for schools

Explain symbolism of statues in garden Staff/volunteer Objective O & Action I3

Improve dairy buildings & use as Staff/volunteer Proposals to use dairy buildings for additional space to Swanley workshops

Teach more about economics of Staff/volunteer Look at as part of Objective O abbey life

Provide access to mill leat orchard Staff/volunteer This was done Autumn 2014

Improve facilities at Swanley Grange Staff/volunteer Action O5

Attract higher level education more Staff/volunteer Objective O frequently

Develop learning offer to match Staff/volunteer Action O1 curriculum

Appendix 5 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 89 Broaden primary school offer to include Staff/volunteer Action O1 — look at how outdoors/nature outdoors/nature relates to curricula

Create marketing plan for schools offer Staff/volunteer Objective O

Maintain, improve & monitor quality Staff/volunteer Action O4 of school workshops

Improve learning resources for schools Staff/volunteer Objective O

More workplace placements Staff/volunteer Actions P5 & P6

Access

Comments Who WHSMP Response

Improve access up/down the slope Visitors, community & Staff/volunteer Action M3 between the Visitor Centre & the abbey/ water garden — for wheelchairs, less able visitors & pushchairs

Provide lift access to rear of Fountains Staff/volunteer Action M3 Hall reached by path from Visitor Centre

More pro-active welcome for Staff/volunteer Action M1 disabled visitors i.e. early opening for autistic children, coffee mornings for disabled groups

Mobility tours at set times of the day Staff/volunteer Action M1

Better wheelchair access to West Community & staff/volunteer Action M3 Lodge toilets

Make footpaths easier to negotiate Community Action M3 for less able visitors

Provide accessible transport like Community Look at as part of options for access golf carts

Provide wheelchair access in deer park/ Visitors Look at as part of options for access Studley entrance

90 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 5 Publicise minibus more Visitors Consider as part of site management

Provide disabled parking at mill leat Staff/volunteer Consider as part of Objective M so disabled visitors don’t have to cross the road

Improve surface at West Gate car park Staff/volunteer Action M3 and the road crossing into the estate

No parking at St Mary’s Church/deer park Visitor & staff/volunteer Management on site

Provide access leaflet for site Staff/volunteer Action M6

Hire out segways Community Not currently under consideration

Look at links between Banqueting House Visitor Not possible under Shoot/NT Agreement & Visitor Centre

Green Transport

Comments Who WHSMP Response

Explore the idea of a Green Travel Plan Stakeholder Objective S for the estate

Look at a NT-run bus service from Ripon Staff/volunteer Action S1 to Fountains & on to Brimham

Dales bus reduced to 3 days a week, Staff/volunteer Action S1 explore options to get people to and from the site

Reduction in bus service also impacting Staff/volunteer Action S1 & S7 on staff & volunteers getting to site to work. Current bus times good for visitors but not staff and volunteer duty times

Ensure any bus service connects Staff/volunteer Action S1 with 36 bus

Improve bus service to Fountains Community Action S1 & S2 & advertise

Appendix 5 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 91 Align bus times with visiting times Community Action S1

Arrange a bus from Harrogate for Visitor Action S1 Saturday park run, lots of people travel individually in cars

Link Fountains better with Harrogate Visitor Action S1

Improve cycle routes — look at link to Stakeholder Action S4 Ripley route and include interpretation

Develop a cycle route from Ripon — Stakeholder, community & staff/volunteer Action S4 routes suggested

Upgrade public footpath to bridleway Staff/volunteer Priority for this plan period to look at to allow cycle access to Spa Gill, allow links to Ripon. more safe cycle routes

Provide secure cycle racks at Studley Staff/volunteer Action S3 and West Gate entrances & lockable area for rucksacks

Explore cycle route through Seven Visitor & staff/volunteer Consider this issue, balance of pedestrian Bridges & make gate more cycle friendly & cycle use.

Provide cycle routes to abbey & water Visitor Current policy no cycling through estate gardens due to conflict with other visitors.

Provide cycle route in deer park Visitor Already cycle route ‘Way of the Roses’.

Encourage more car sharing Staff/volunteer Action S7

Install electric vehicle charging points Visitor Not current action, but under in car park consideration

Better promote walking routes from Community & Staff/volunteer Action S5 Ripon to Fountains & Studley

Allow horse access through the estate Community & Staff/volunteer Issue of how we balance use of deer park — provide a horse/bike accessible path for horses,cyclists & pedestrians. Action through the estate & link to surrounding to monitor current uses within deer park bridlepaths Action B3.

92 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 5 Research (comments either received from stakeholders or our staff/volunteers)

Comments Who WHSMP Response

Sponsor post-graduate degrees Look into as part of delivery of Objective O

Publish Mark Newman’s book about Action I5 the estate

Explore Kitchen Bank archaeology Action I2

Produce summaries of all research for Action I6 staff, volunteers & visitors

Look at areas outside the estate such Research project for future plan. as Spa Gill & Spa House, Laver Banks, Bishopton etc and links to the wider monastic use & heritage

More research into Chinese Garden Action I2, considered as part of research & Studley House framework

More research into social history & Action I2, considered as part of research stories about people of the estate. Think framework about more research into below stairs.

Tell the stories of Fountains Hall Objective N

Raising awareness of our WHS status

Comments Who WHSMP Response

Work towards bringing the whole Staff/volunteer Objective N estate & incorporation of abbey into water garden as one concept

Ensure school parties go away Community Objective O from visits inspired & informed

Appendix 5 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 93 Put more emphasis on the industrial/ Community Objective N, Action N3 Outcomes of Phase 2 commercial history of Fountains & Consultation Studley i.e. wool production & links to other sites/Europe This was the more formal stage of the consultation process when we asked for Put world heritage logo on road signs Staff/volunteer No current plans to change signage to comments on the draft plan. The draft & include signage with WHS logo on site. plan was made available online and in road from Ripon local libraries for eight weeks for public Create a coherent national publicity Staff/volunteer Action Q5 comments. A summary of the draft programme for world heritage & link plan was also circulated to all our key more with other WHSs stakeholders at a workshop in September 2014 and available at admission points, Hold events with a festival vibe plus Staff/volunteer Objective N restaurant and tea rooms on the site. lectures, dinners, workshops A short questionnaire was provided with the plan. Provide better on-site information Staff/volunteer Objective N — consider action on World about the World Heritage Site Heritage information Most of our key partners responded including Historic England, Natural Publicise guides/site lectures about Staff/volunteer Objective N — consider action on World England, Nidderdale AONB, Harrogate the World Heritage Site more Heritage information Borough Council and Ripon City Plan Committee. We also received responses Engage local families more Staff/volunteer Objective P from local interest groups such as the Yorkshire Gardens Trust and the Ripon Civic Society. A number of interested individuals also sent in comments.

94 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 5 The following is a brief summary of the — The priority given to the historic — Support for introduction of new public — Continue commitment to seek to acquire main comments: environment and the 18th century bus services. The National Trust should shooting rights. Need new agreement landscape aesthetic may sometimes work with partners around Ripon in so conservation works can continue — The World Heritage Site is not visible occur at the expense of wildlife. addressing travel options for visitors. in ‘shoot’ areas and it should include enough in the plan, the outstanding further public access through current universal value (OUV) and attributes — Suggestion that biodiversity could — The water garden should be more shoot areas. of OUV should be at the heart of the be given more weight in day to day of a destination. There is a significant plan and inform everything in it. management of the site. The status of opportunity to develop visitor — Partnerships with landowners nature conservation could be enhanced facilities at the lakeside recognising and statutory bodies is critical to — As the WHS is inscribed for its cultural with its own objective and nature the international status of the water management of upstream water values these should take precedence conservation plan. garden. There should be commitment environment and should be advocating in the event of any conflict of interest to feasibility and delivery studies of financial support from regional and a statement to this effect should — Better representation of nature this development for implementation and national funding sources to be included in the plan. conservation interests on the in the next plan period. all parties involved. stakeholder group and establishment — There should be a clearer commitment of a natural heritage stakeholder — Active interpretation of the water — Consider access within the site itself, to promoting understanding of the WHS partnership. garden is needed and enabling visitors a mode of on-site transport is needed. and the purposes of the Convention and to understand the importance of UNESCO. — The recognised nature conservation starting their tour in the 18th century — Recognition of importance of archive designations on the site do not water garden is an important step. and development of an archaeological — Learning offered to practitioners, adequately reflect the biodiversity The water garden should be displayed research framework is supported. academics and students as well as importance of the site. along other gardens of this stature Improved accessibility to collections is visitors on historic landscapes and their and Studley Royal Hall needs to be needed, such as the collections held at management needs greater attention. — More consultation needed on projects interpreted better. the Helmsley Stone Store. which may impact on the Sites of — Include a section on disaster planning Importance for Nature Conservation — Fountains Hall should play a more pivotal — Could the historic water management and risk management. (SINCs) and better integration of nature role for visitors. system be better understood and conservation into the management mapped. — Any future economic development of the site. — There needs to be greater appreciation should be sustainable. of the people behind the abbey, mill, — Importance of attracting visitors — Conservation works undertaken on and promoting health and well- — Give more reference in the plan to estate, Fountains Hall, Studley Hall the WHS acknowledged as being of being should also be balanced with landscape character and the Landscape and the water gardens. This needs high quality and the programme of providing opportunities for peace Character Assessments covering the to be reflected in the Statement of conservation works set out in the plan and contemplation. WHS, buffer zone and the wider setting Outstanding Universal Value. should continue as a priority. of the WHS. These will be a useful tool — Could include facilities for promotion — Raise awareness of the mill for for mapping landscape setting and — Draft Ripon City Plan proposing to and understanding of historic water visitors through better presentation garden assets. include policies to protect the city environments, benefits for wider Ripon and signage. skyline and special landscape areas — Management of the access policy area from what could be an international which support the objectives of the to protect landscape character whilst facility could be substantial. buffer zone. retaining the spirit of place should be a key consideration in the plan.

Appendix 5 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 95 Appendix 6: Evaluation of delivery of objectives and actions in WHS Management Plan 2009-2014

Introduction to include Harrogate Borough Council, — There are around 400 regular volunteers E Ensure the boundaries of the WHS North Yorkshire County Council and on the estate and 27 different volunteer This report provides a brief summary of include the area that gives the site its ICOMOS (UK). teams. New teams set up over the Plan the delivery of actions from the 6 Year universal significance, establish a buffer period include the Stone Cleaning Team, Action Plan which forms a key element zone to protect the WHS overall and — The National Trust has a project Archaeology Monitoring Team and of the World Heritage Site Management protect the landscape setting. management framework in place and Family Activities Team. Plan 2009-2014. It highlights areas where developments include Heritage Impact work is ongoing or an action has not been F Develop awareness of the WHS Assessments and/or Environmental — Since 2011 there has been a successful delivered. status amongst key partners, the local Impact Assessments, examples include internship programme on the estate. community and visitors. the Lake Project and the Visitor Centre Theme 1: Management Policy, Ground Source Heat Pump Project. — Group volunteering takes place on site Financing the Future and Investing G Examine the impact of climate both with local groups such as Mental change on all objectives and adopt — The Strategy for Sustainable Health Ripon and corporate groups in People a strategy for accommodation and Development for the WHS has been who contribute financially to the estate adaptation. implemented and is generating funds for for the chance to work on landscape Long Term Objectives: conservation projects. The milestone of projects. H Minimise the impact of the pheasant £500K net income per annum set in the A Ensure holistic and sustainable shoot on access and on the historic and Plan was exceeded in 2010. — External funding including grants and management to achieve the vision for natural environment and woodland legacies make a significant contribution the area. management. — The commercial projects set out to conservation of the estate. A in the plan have been implemented. large grant for repairs to Fountains B Retain the distinctiveness, sense I Develop a research programme to These include: Hall roof was received from the of historical continuity and peaceful improve the understanding of the site Wolfson Foundation and Higher Level beauty of the site. and to inform its management. — conversion of How Hill farm Stewardship funding has been received buildings to holiday cottages for environmental management and C Ensure adequate and sustainable 6 Year Action Plan Achievements: capital conservation projects in the — development of a plant sales area financial and human resources to deer parks. achieve the vision for the site. — The World Heritage Site Management which sells locally grown hardy Plan was launched in 2010 and a perennials in peat free compost — Policies were included in the Draft D Achieve the appropriate standards WHS Co-ordinator appointed to Harrogate Borough Council Sites and — development of the range of locally of maintenance of the whole estate, monitor delivery of the Plan. A regular Policies Development Plan Document sourced foods available on site including the infrastructure, through programme of stakeholder events and to protect the WHS (this plan has been long term planning and allocation of publications has been delivered. — enhancements to the Visitor Centre withdrawn), the buffer zone and the adequate resources. include improved admissions point, wider setting of the site. The buffer zone — The membership of the World Heritage a customer information hut and was approved by the UNESCO World Site Steering Group has been extended improved welcome signage Heritage Committee in 2012.

96 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 6 — World Heritage Site status is information about the history of Theme 2: Conservation Policy including repairs to the Infirmary strongly communicated in marketing the estate. and Environmental Performance tunnels, Huby’s Tower walkway, Guest communications, press releases, House river walls, new windows at websites and adverts. The logo is used — The property archive still needs to be Conservation Policy Cellarers Chequer and repairs to the on publicity material, Visitor Centre developed and made public, although mill wheel at Fountains Mill. work has been done on cataloguing our signage and estate vehicles. There is a Long Term Objectives: programme of annual World Heritage furniture, statuary and paintings and — Most of the conservation projects on making them available on the NT online the indicative project list have been Weekends, World Heritage tours and K Ensure the long term conservation collections database. completed, most significantly: world heritage is an element of the and appropriate standards of volunteer guide training. Key Performance Indicators maintenance of the garden and — desilting Studley Lake and the designed landscape. removal of the island — The estate continues to maintain a — The number of volunteers has increased positive relationship with the Shoot and from 330 in 2008 to around 400 L Complete the first time consolidation — restoration of 18th century garden are currently agreeing a management volunteers present day and volunteer of the monastic remains and continue features such as the recent bosquet plan for the garden. Priorities include the hours have increased from 20,764 in their conservation and maintenance. project at Rustic Bridge, repointing opening up of 18th century views and 2008 to 28,938 in 2012. of the Serpentine Tunnel and management of wooded areas on the M Ensure the long term conservation Middle Walk Bridge restoration garden valley sides. — Over 300 volunteers come from of the many features of the historic the local area, mainly from Ripon, environment. — repairing buildings including 6 Year Action Plan Not Achieved/ Harrogate, Leeds and their surrounding repairs to the Banqueting House Ongoing villages. N Ensure the long term conservation, stonework and consolidation of — Work has begun to scope out a Climate and optimise the opportunities for Mackershaw Lodges. Conservation — The Annual Volunteer Survey 2012 enhancement, of the natural features of the ice houses is in progress. Change Strategy for the WHS and we showed that 96% of volunteers that hope to develop this with partners of the site and improve standards of responded agree or strongly agree with monitoring. — There is an ongoing programme of repair through the WHS Management Plan the statement ‘I would recommend to the monastic precinct wall and the process. Links are also being explored working with the National Trust’. P Develop with partners, long-term deer park wall and an annual programme with work English Heritage is carrying solutions to recurrent problems of maintenance and repair for buildings, out on flood risk as part of the National — There has been an increase in awareness affecting the water features that arise trees, fencing and footpaths. Heritage Protection Plan. of our WHS status from 65% in 2011 to from the catchment area. 85% in 2012. There is still confusion over — The estate has had apprentices in both — There is currently no formal research the reasons for inscription with 55% 6 Year Action Plan Achievements: the landscape and building teams and strategy for the WHS. Most research identifying the Abbey as the element holds heritage skills training days with on the estate is commissioned to meet justifying the WHS status and 45% — The Conservation Management Plan local colleges and universities, most a management need or for a specific thinking it is all the elements of the site (CMP) has been produced and sets out recently at the ice houses. The site is conservation project. The Quebec including the water garden, St Mary’s a vision, objectives and programme used as a learning base for the Princes Historical and Archaeological Survey church, Fountains Hall and the abbey. of works for the 11 character areas Foundation and the National Heritage was carried out to inform future on the estate. Work is in progress to Training Academy. conservation works. The recent Bathing share the plan with stakeholders, local House archaeological dig aimed to solve communities and visitors. — A geodiversity audit of the designed local drainage issues as well as to find landscape has been prepared in the lost building. The volunteer research — A programme of repairs has been carried partnership with Natural England group have researched and gathered out on the Abbey by English Heritage which explores the role of underlying

Appendix 6 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 97 geology in the development of the — restoration of High Seat (works Environmental Performance — draught proofing and automatic garden and recommendations for future planned 2015) doors installed at the Visitor Centre management. A Soil Survey was carried Long Term Objectives: out as part of the CMP. — provision of an electrical supply — In 2011 the How Hill Holiday Cottage to the water gardens. project contributed towards the estate O Improve environmental practices — Entry to the Higher Level Stewardship winning an Akrill Media Group Green incorporating environmental Scheme has provided opportunities to — The full consolidation of the abbey Business Award and a Ripon Civic compliance, reduced energy use, improve management of the deer parks has not been delivered. However, the Society Award for ‘Best Sustainability water conservation measures and including removal of invasive species, Asset Management Plan for the abbey is Project’. sustainable resource use. management of deer numbers, care of currently being reviewed. 6 Year Action Plan Not Achieved/ veteran trees and deadwood and better — The impact of the Shoot management grassland management. Ongoing including the impact of pheasants and 6 Year Action Plan Achievements: — The Ripon Multi-Objective Project associated infrastructure continues — The estate priorities going forward are — An environmental review of the estate (MOP) was in place at the start of to have a negative impact on nature to continue the work with Nidderdale has been completed for energy use and the Plan period and grant aided land conservation and access to the wider AONB to look at potential hydro work is in progress on waste and water. management works upstream of the site 18th century landscape. power projects and to implement energy efficiency improvements aimed at reducing run-off from land up — A wide range of environmental — The end of the Ripon Multi-Objective to the let estate. river of the property. This project has Project has slowed partnership working performance projects have been now ended. Research has been carried to find a solution to the recurrent delivered. These projects include: Key Performance Indicators out on the provenance and management problems affecting the water features. — completion of the ground source of silt on the site. It’s a priority to find another means — Performance indicators show the heat pump at the Visitor Centre of taking this catchment-wide environmental initiatives are having a 6 Year Action Plan Not Achieved/ which will provide heating at the management forward. positive impact with a 7.5% reduction Ongoing Visitor Centre and hot water, in energy usage in 2011/12 against the reducing our reliance on LPG · Although a historical and archaeological Key performance Indicators 2009 baseline. survey was carried out in 2011 the — The conservation performance on site — water efficiency measures in the — Water usage on the estate has been restoration of Quebec has still to be continues to steadily increase from a newly refurbished Visitor Centre reduced from annual consumption of delivered. Landscape restoration of this baseline of 58% in 2010 to 65% in 2013, toilets such as waterless urinals 13,325m³ in 2010 to 11,505m³ in 2012/13. area will not take place until the flooding as measured through the National and low water usage taps. A in this area of the garden can be managed. Trust Conservation Performance programme of replacing water Hydrological modelling is being carried out Indicator. The increase is due to delivery mains to reduce potential for water to develop options for reducing the impact of conservation projects, improved leakage has now been established. of flood water on the garden. management through HLS in the deer — secondary glazing and insulation parks and better protection of the — Other projects not delivered include: installed in estate buildings setting through the buffer zone. including holiday cottages — consolidation of the bypass tunnel and tenant housing in Seven Bridges

— restoration and reuse of How Hill Tower

98 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 6 Theme 3—Access, Enjoyment — Regular visitor segmentation work working abbey. In 2011, interactive are being developed for resolving this and Understanding by the National Trust is enabling a displays were put in with funding from issue. Options for wheelchair access greater understanding of visitors and WREN landfill and advice from the RNIB. to Fountains Hall will be explored ensures that interpretation, events when considering the future use of Long Term Objectives: and marketing meets their needs. A — A medicinal herb garden with the building. natural play area and bird hide were interpretation is now open at Q Implement a comprehensive and developed in 2013 aimed at family Fountains Hall. — Work is in progress with ICOMOS (UK) sustainable access policy for all visitors. Events range from tours and to develop an education programme incorporating intellectual access — A range of World Heritage Site trails ‘live’ archaeological digs to a varied focussed on the garden heritage and and learning, physical access, social, have been developed as part of the family activity programme including den conservation management of the WHS economic and cultural access annual World Heritage Weekend building and pond dipping. to complement the existing formal and opportunities. including a ‘Lost Places’ trail and a follies informal learning activities. — The National Trust website was trail. The garden buildings are open R Promote enjoyment, understanding redesigned in 2012 and the estate uses to visitors and include moveable easels — The interpretation in the mill and and engagement to deepen the social media such as Facebook and with information panels about each Fountains Hall has not been refreshed relationship with supporters and Twitter to publicise events and work on garden building. and ideas for more permanent develop a dialogue with them to share site. The website also includes regular interpretation/use of the garden information and estate stories. — An updated guidebook and children’s updates and blogs on conservation buildings will be explored through the guide to the site have been published. work the National Trust is developing S Develop the learning experience for projects such as the Bathing House dig. with the ‘Spirit of Place’ project. all through engagement with current — All conservation projects include an — Around 12,000 students visit the site a and potential new audiences. element of interpretation which may year. Formal learning activities include — The Archaeological and Historical include site panels, live digs, re-enactors Survey of Fountains Abbey & Studley T Inspire support and encourage active the ‘Day in the Life of a Monk’ and a and archaeologists talking to visitors. Royal is currently with the National involvement through volunteering, range of curriculum related activities for Trust Specialist Publications team. financial contribution and repeat KS1,2, 3 and 4 which include self-led and 6 Year Action Plan Not Achieved/ visiting. guided activities, workshops and theatre. Ongoing Key Performance Indicators There are also free, downloadable 6 Year Action Plan Achievements: resources on the website. One of — An Access for All Audit was carried — The Action Plan target of a 1% increase the most popular projects has been out but wasn’t developed into a formal in visitors per year with a target of 325k — The interpretation in Porter’s Lodge was the partnership with North Country access strategy. A range of initiatives visitors by 2013 has been exceeded developed in partnership with RNIB. Theatre to provide an interactive theatre have been taken forward to improve with visitors to the pay for entry area Hearing loops are available at the Visitor workshop where children learn about access such as an increase in the number reaching 336,326 for 2012/13 and an Centre, the mill and for guided tours. the history of the site. of free Personal Mobility Vehicles, additional estimated 150,000 visitors The NT has produced an Access Audit better surfacing on valley paths, free to the deer park. of the site. — A range of informal education minibus service linking entrance points, activities have been developed for automatic doors in the Visitor Centre — The estate has achieved an average — New signage has been placed in the adults and children including guided shop and restaurant and ramped score of 73% of visitors rating their visit Visitor Centre during the plan period tours and specialist tours, craft entrances at the mill, St Mary’s and as very enjoyable over the last 3 years. as part of the ‘Welcome Project’ and a activities and workshops. the abbey. The route from the Visitor customer information hut is now sited Centre to the abbey is a problem for — There has been a drop in educational at the entrance to provide information — Porter’s Lodge now houses an wheelchair users and less able visitors visits from 13,858 in 2009 to 11,137 for visitors. interpretation centre with a permanent due to the steep gradient and options in 2012. exhibition about the history of the

Appendix 6 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 99 Theme 4: Local Community Links the Blue Sky Initiative’ which follows — The site has close links with local — The site has no formal engagement and Partnerships monastic routes to link Fountains Abbey producers through its food offer. A local strategy but work is in progress to to Brimham Rocks. A downloadable food map in the Restaurant shows where develop a strategy for engaging walking route linking Fountains with the food has come from. communities and visitors in the review Long Term Objectives: Markenfield is now available. The site of the management plan. also engages with local sites through — The site is part of a network of northern U Strengthen links with local, and other membership of the Nidderdale AONB World Heritage Sites which share good — A Visitor Travel Audit complemented by communities of interest, respecting Heritage Steering Group. practice and are currently developing a recent survey of visitors travel choices feelings of ownership of the site and a leaflet promoting world heritage in and options was carried out for the site people’s love of the site. — The World Heritage Site is reflected the North of England. as part of a Masters Dissertation. This is in a range of local plans and strategies now being developed into a Green Travel V Continue to develop contacts and including the Harrogate Borough — A range of cycling initiatives have been Plan for the site. partnerships with the local authorities, Council Local Plan and the Nidderdale developed over the last 6 years including statutory bodies and other key AONB Management Plan. the Way of the Roses cycle route which organisations, individuals and adjoining links Morecambe with Bridlington with landowners. — The estate is represented on a a route down the deer park avenue number of local tourism groups such to Ripon. Cycle facilities are available W Building understanding of the as Discover Ripon, Visit Harrogate at entrance points and visitors are impact of the WHS on the local/ and Ripon Chamber of Trade and encouraged to visit the site by bike. regional economy and optimise that Commerce and Ripon Ring (a group Evening community bike rides through impact. representing large visitor attractions the estate take place in the summer. near Ripon). The estate worked closely X Encourage access to the site by with Ripon on the Jubilee Celebrations — There is currently a bus service to means other than the motor car in 2012 and engaged with Harrogate the site from Ripon three days a week. and promote the use of sustainable Borough Council and local schools for The bus service has been reduced transport, such as bus, bike or walking the Olympic Torch journey through over the plan period. to the site. Fountains. — The National Trust ’Great British Walk’ 6 Year Action Plan Achievements: — Regionally, the site worked closely with campaign has become a regular annual Welcome to Yorkshire on a pocket guide event. ‘50 things to do before you’re 11 — A range of stakeholder events and to the Yorkshire World Heritage Sites. 3/4’ encourages play and activities in newsletters have been held/produced The site is consistently rated one of the the outdoors. The estate has acted as a over the last 3 years. World Heritage top visitor attractions in Yorkshire on venue for Harrogate Borough Council’s Weekend has developed into an annual Trip Advisor and in 2012 won the Best ‘Fit 4 Fun’ project, providing free access event with activities aimed at the local Large Visitor Attraction in Yorkshire for young mothers who want to ‘stroll community and free entry to the estate. at the White Rose Awards. and tone’ with an instructor.

— There has been ongoing dialogue with a — There are leaflets about the estate in 6 Year Action Plan Not Achieved/ range of linked local sites. Key projects a range of languages and audio guides Ongoing delivered during the plan period include in English, French and German. Guided the Aislabie Walk linking Hackfall and — In 2014, the local bus route linking tours are also available in Dutch, Italian, the site to Ripon was reduced to 3 Studley Royal and a walk delivered with German, French and Russian. young people as part of the ‘Under days a week.

100 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 6 Appendix 7: English Heritage and National Trust Conservation Principles

National Trust triple bottom line National Trust conservation Principle 4: Access and Engagement of the historic environment, and for approach principles balancing its protection with the economic We will conserve natural and cultural and social needs and aspirations of the The National Trust has adopted a three- The following conservation principles heritage to enable sustainable access communities who live in it’. fold approach to evaluating its activities have been designed to guide the work for the benefit of society, gaining the as part of its strategy. The Triple Bottom of the National Trust, foster exemplar support of the widest range of people Principle 1 Line (TBL) ensures that projects and standards and ensure consistency in the by promoting understanding, enjoyment and participation in our work. The historic environment is a shared activities deliver benefits not only of pursuit of common goals throughout the resource. a financial nature, but also enhancing organisation. There is no hierarchy of Principle 5: Skills and Partnership conservation and environmental values importance. A more detailed explanation Principle 2 as well as delivering on a human level of each conservation principle is available We will develop our skills and experience to a variety of stakeholders, be that on www.nationaltrust.org.uk in partnership with others to promote and Everyone should be able to participate in terms of education, access or wider improve the conservation of natural and in sustaining the historic environment. social improvements. Principle 1: Significance cultural heritage now and for the future. Principle 3 ‘When we take decisions in the Trust, We will ensure that all decisions are Principle 6: Accountability Understanding the significance of places we should do so knowing their effect informed by an appropriate level of is vital. on people, money and the environment. understanding of the significance and We will be transparent and accountable ‘spirit of place’ of each of our properties, by recording our decisions and sharing We describe these three elements together Principle 4 as the triple bottom line. To help with and why we and others value them. knowledge to enable the best conservation our local decision-making, we use a triple decisions to be taken both today and by Significant places should be managed Principle 2: Integration bottom line tool to assess proposals. The future generations. to sustain their values. aim is to make well-informed decisions We will take an integrated approach to Principle 5 that optimise the three areas of the triple the conservation of natural and cultural English Heritage conservation bottom line. It is not necessary to achieve heritage, reconciling the full spectrum principles Decisions about change must be equal outcomes across the three areas. of interests involved. reasonable, transparent and consistent. For example, a car park will always English Heritage recognises that the historic environment should be sustained primarily be about visitor access and Principle 3: Change Principle 6 money, and the restoration of a peat bog for present and future generations. Listed We will anticipate and work with change about nature. The question the triple below are the principles contained in the Documenting and learning from decisions that affects our conservation interests, bottom line tool asks is how the car park English Heritage ‘Conservation Principles, is essential. embracing, accommodating or adapting affects the environment and how the Policy and Guidance’ the aim of which is where appropriate, and mitigating, peat bog can be funded and accessible.’ to ‘provide a logical approach to making preventing or opposing where there decisions and offering guidance on a Excerpt from National Trust Guidance is a potential adverse impact. consistent basis about any and all aspects

Appendix 7 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 101 Appendix 8: Conservation Action Plan 2015-2021

Contents

Introduction 103 Programme of Conservation Works 2015-2021 103 Character Area A — Visitor Centre and Access Road 103 Character Area B — Swanley Grange 105 Character Area C — Fountains Hall 107 Character Area D — Abbey Precinct 109 Character Area E — The Water Garden 112 Character Area F — Studley Lake 115 Character Area G — Studley Royal Deer Park 117 Character Area H — Seven Bridges Valley 120 Character Area I — Gillet Hill 122 Character Area J — Mackershaw Deer Park 123 Character Area K — How Hill 124 Map 1 — Boundaries & Character Areas 126

102 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 8 Introduction and its buildings and structures and Character Area A — Visitor Centre The concern to minimise the impact our assessment of the significances and Access Road of the visitor amenities also influenced Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal of the estate. the Centre’s siting and, whilst it is is a very special place, inscribed as a Summary of the Condition and History reasonably close to the abbey ruins, it is World Heritage Site for its stunning 18th The timescales for delivery of the some way removed from the water garden, century landscape and water garden, conservation works will vary as they are The Visitor Centre, built in 1992, and at least in terms of currently used tracks integrating the ruins of Fountains Abbey. dependent on the resources available. associated access roads dominate this and footpaths. Geographically it is not The National Trust, in partnership with The projects will be mostly implemented Character Area. The building is designed so far removed. This issue was raised the English Heritage Trust and Historic by the National Trust with the involvement around a courtyard, perhaps to reflect an at the time of the Visitor Centre’s England, is responsible for managing and of the English Heritage Trust, Historic ecclesiastical cloister, although its function development. Although the reasons conserving the site for future generations England and other relevant partners, as a temporary resting place, a pause in a for its location are well understood, to enjoy. This Conservation Action Plan interest groups and the local community. journey, is shown by its fractured north- the impact of its location on the visitor sets out our programme of works to Many of the proposed projects will need west and south-east corners through access to, and circulation through, the conserve the parks and gardens over planning consent, listed building consent which a view of Huby’s Tower is afforded. water garden, remains a problem. the next 6 years. Historical views will be or scheduled monument consent. This is, of course, the true destination for revealed, the 18th century garden will be the visitor. Vision for the Visitor Centre and interpreted and currently inaccessible Works do not include conservation and Access Road areas of the garden such as Quebec and maintenance of the abbey which are the The building was extremely well Tent Hill will be restored and reinstated responsibility of the English Heritage Trust received when it was opened and it is The vision for the Visitor Centre is as part of the visitor journey. At the same and managed through the English Heritage still considered to be an exceptional two-fold. time we will be focussing on the essential Trust Asset Management Plan. and influential building. One only has to travel the country’s motorways, visiting Firstly, the aim is to create a more dynamic maintenance of the core elements of the introduction to the World Heritage garden such as the ancient and veteran Programme of Conservation attractions and heritage sites, to see its Works 2015-2021 influence on the design of buildings that Site by presenting the Visitor Centre, trees, abbey and garden buildings and in itself, as a significant building, framed designed water features. offer comfort and refreshment, whilst not The following is the programme of necessarily being the final destination in in a mature and well-managed woodland In addition to our 6 year work programme, conservation works. For each Character their own right. setting, approached by a drive so rich in we’ve also included some of our future Area we have set out: interest and variety that it prompts a keen ambitions for the garden beyond 2021. At the time of its design and construction, anticipation about what is to come and, — a summary of the current condition Some of these will be challenging to emphasis was placed by planners on on arrival, offers the visitor a clear and and history deliver, such as the creation of a direct the need for the building, access road inviting welcome. and parking areas to have as little route from the Visitor Centre to the — the vision for the area impact on the historical setting and Secondly, the aim is to ensure that the water garden and the restoration of Visitor Centre fulfils its role as the hub — a programme of works visual environment as possible. In short, areas currently off the visitor route of the World Heritage Site, offering an such as How Hill and Kitchen Bank. the visitor facilities were required to be unobtrusive, with the result that the informed introduction to all the principal The site is a complex one and to make Visitor Centre, a handsome and interesting attractions of Fountains Hall, Fountains it easier to understand we have split it building, is for the most part concealed Abbey, the water garden and the deer into 11 character areas and these are within screen belt plantings of uncertain parks of Studley Royal and Mackershaw. shown on Map 1 — Boundaries and character. Character Areas. The works have been identified through analysis of the history and current condition of the landscape

Appendix 8 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 103 6 Year Priorities for Visitor Centre and Access Road

Action Project name Description

VC1 Maintain Visitor Centre Continue to maintain and present the Visitor Centre as a significant, award-winning, example of a late 20th century public building by a highly-regarded architect.

VC2 Improve Visitor Centre car park Improve the design and layout of the existing Visitor Centre car park to increase the number of parking places, improve the surfacing and improve the signage — all providing a better welcome and approach to the Visitor Centre for visitors.

VC3 Manage screen planting Continue to improve the management of the screen planting along the approach road and around the Visitor Centre. Thin all woodland belts favouring native tree species.

VC4 Identify and manage key views along Identify and manage key views as envisaged in Ted Cullinan’s design from along the approach road, the car approach road to St Mary's Church spire, parks and Visitor Centre. These will include views to St Mary’s Church spire, the Obelisk at St Mary’s Church the Obelisk & Huby's Tower and Huby’s Tower.

VC5 Maximise view of Huby’s Tower Maximise the impact of the view of Huby’s Tower, framed by the Visitor Centre’s entrance portal and fragmented south east corner.

VC6 Improve footpath from Visitor Centre to St Improve the quality of the footpath setting along Church Walk from the Visitor Centre to St Mary’s Church. Mary’s Church

VC7 Erect new signs at estate entrance Erect new signs at the main entrance to the estate.

VC8 Explore options to provide better links An important part of understanding the water garden is to provide ways for visitors to enter the garden from between the Visitor Centre and the the north through Canal Gates. This was the entrance to the garden in the 18th century. Options for linking the entrance to the water garden Visitor Centre with the water garden, either by green transport or walking, will be explored through the Visitor Experience Project.

VC9 Extend the range of interpretation in the Extend the range and variety of interpretation available both in the courtyard and the Visitor Centre. courtyard and Visitor Centre. This will include the significance of the Visitor Centre itself and reinforce links to the water garden, deer park, Fountains Abbey and Fountains Hall. Celebrate and communicate the very special nature of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the significance of our World Heritage Site — Studley Royal Park, including the Ruins of Fountains Abbey.

104 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 8 Long Term Plans Character Area B — Swanley Vision for Swanley Grange — Develop a pedestrian link between the Grange The vision is to reinstate the historic Visitor Centre and the water garden Summary of Condition and History and agricultural character of Swanley and beyond with linked signage and Grange and to create a legible environment interpretation. This area overlooks the abbey and is which is varied and attractive. It will rich in agricultural history. The current suggest long-established patterns of — Establish a green transport hub screen planting and field boundaries are management over the seasons, rich in providing access to the water garden on the footprint of early field boundaries detail and ecologically diverse. and other locations on the estate. reflecting farming activities dating possibly Within this setting is the working heart — Catalogue and create an accessible from Saxon times. Today the area plays a key role in linking the visitor centre of the estate — supporting its maintenance, archive of all the documents and plans providing practical conservation master- which informed the development of with the abbey, Fountains Hall and water garden. classes in traditional craft skills, a hub the Visitor Centre. for exploring the tools, techniques and The existing grass in the area is uniformly materials of estate management and green which suggests restricted learning about the archaeology, ecology biodiversity and a utilitarian approach to and the history of Fountains Abbey and managing amenity grassland. The paths Studley Royal. Swanley Grange estate from the Visitor Centre and down the field buildings, therefore, should not appear lack the presence of the principal visitor cut-off from the wider area. routes serving the abbey, Fountains Hall and water garden. They are also steep Swanley Grange as a whole should be a and not very accessible. The Swanley place of modest beauty, with comfortable Grange estate buildings (the Learning paths leading through traditional hay Centre) could be better presented with meadows, leaving the modern world wider opportunities for learning and behind in the Visitor Centre and entering interpretation. They are divorced from the (in the imagination, if nothing more) the grassland by a fence and gate, encouraging world of medieval land management, with most people to walk past, heading straight glimpses of Fountains Abbey, Fountains for the abbey. Hall and Kitchen Bank. The visitor should be able to understand the fact that, from the 13th century, if not before, this was the home grange of the abbey.

Appendix 8 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 105 6 Year Priorities for Swanley Grange

Action Project name Description

SG1 Conserve agricultural/pastoral character of Reinstate/conserve the agricultural/pastoral character of the fields and meadows to the south and south west the fields south of the Visitor Centre of the Visitor Centre. Encourage a varied sward and diverse flora.

SG2 Improve accessibility of paths from Visitor Improve the quality and accessibility of the physical paths from Visitor Centre through Swanley Grange, Centre to the abbey and Fountains Hall to the abbey and Fountains Hall.

SG3 Enhance views of the abbey from Visitor Maintain and enhance glimpses and views of the abbey from the Visitor Centre and Swanley Grange Centre and Swanley Grange wherever possible.

SG4 Restore field boundaries south east of Restore and conserve field boundaries, ecological interest and character of the fields to the south east Visitor Centre of the Visitor Centre.

SG5 Conserve historic hedges Conserve the historic hedges in the Swanley area.

SG6 Conserve farmhouse and farm buildings Continue to conserve and maintain the farmhouse and farm buildings sympathetically, with appropriate materials and techniques.

SG7 Open up entrance to Swanley Grange Open up and make more inviting the entrance to the Swanley Grange Learning Centre. Learning Centre

SG8 Maintain, develop and promote a range Maintain, develop and promote the range of activities presented at the Swanley Grange Learning Centre. of activities at Swanley Grange Learning As part of wider interpretation/education programme develop restoration and interpretation policies to Centre reflect the long history of Swanley Grange including its medieval role and management. Options for future visitor use of Swanley Grange will be developed as part of the Visitor Experience Project.

Long Term Plans

— Establish modern estate management facilities and storage in fields near the Visitor Centre.

106 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 8 Character Area C — Fountains Hall Probably enlarged from an earlier building, Vision for Fountains Hall and the present Hall dates from the end of surrounding area Summary of Condition and History the 16th / start of the 17th century, and is a fine example of late Elizabethan / early The focus of the vision is to recognise and The principal attractions of the Fountains Jacobean architecture, reflecting the present Fountains Hall as an architectural Hall Character Area are the historic impact of Robert Smythson and, in its jewel, its setting being the principal monastic entrance to the abbey and, charming, relatively small scale, closer to approach to one of the most important of course, the Hall itself. In any other Barlborough (Derbyshire, attributed to medieval Cistercian abbeys in the country, location in the country the Hall would Smythson) than Wollaton or Hardwick, and its final polish being applied and be considered and presented as a major which boast more symmetry and grander refined over many generations. architectural attraction. On a site so rich scale and setting. Both of the latter are with treasure, however, it is easy for the Key to this is recognising the distinct positioned on high land, commanding visitor to overlook this particular jewel. periods and functions which meet at the all-round views of parkland and gardens, In fact, today, the principal route from Hall: the West Gate; the Hall itself, with a manifestation of their owners’ power the Visitor Centre to the abbey ruins does, its agglomerative elevations and interiors; and ambitions. Fountains Hall, on the indeed, avoid the Hall. Visitors who do and the gardens and landscape setting. other hand, is squeezed into the space approach the Hall are sometimes uncertain The religious, social and cultural history between the steep north face of the valley as to whether or not it is open, and some of those who lived and worked in this area and monastic route to the abbey from of those who have entered the building for centuries is reflected here, in layers of the west. Although this location provides have expressed disappointment with the change and modification. handsome views over Kitchen Bank — and, quality of the interior’s presentation. of course, took advantage of the ambience, Thus, this is a place where the Trust’s Furthermore, it is unlikely that many and even the materials, of the abbey — high standard of conservation and visitor recognise or explore the fact that the the gardens to the north and west are engagement practice should be applied: Hall was built centuries after the West characterised by narrow terraces on steep to the Hall as if it were a stand-alone Gate provided entry to the Cistercian land, some of which — framed by the dark property, built within a setting replete abbey, and only developed there because lines of yews — were probably modified with the patterns of much older purpose. the Dissolution had so comprehensively and enhanced in the early part of the 20th transformed the role and setting of century (photographs dating from the end the abbey. of the 19th century show the Hall against a much more open and light setting).

Refurbished and upgraded in the first decades of the 20th century, this is an outstanding example of a house built for Elizabethan gentry, almost within the shadow of a medieval abbey, and regularly adapted, over the subsequent centuries, as a family home.

Appendix 8 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 107 6 Year Priorities for Fountains Hall

Action Project name Description

FH1 Conserve Fountains Hall and surrounding Continue to conserve and protect Fountains Hall and the surrounding buildings including Deer Cottage, buildings West Lodge, the Ticket Office, the Summerhouse in Kitchen Garden, Fountains Cottage and Abbey Cottage and Store. Carry out a Quinquennial Survey of Fountains Hall and review and deliver the programme of works set out in the 2011 Condition Survey for the surrounding buildings.

FH2 Options appraisal for future use of Develop the interior presentation and transform the interpretation offered in Fountains Hall and increase the Fountains Hall areas open to the public including the Chapel Room. Develop as part of the Visitor Experience Project to look at future options for the Hall.

FH3 Research, restore and interpret gardens Continue the programme of researching, restoring and interpreting the gardens and orchards surrounding around Fountains Hall Fountains Hall.

FH4 Increase access to the Kitchen Gardens, Increase access to the Kitchen Gardens, including the new Herb Garden. Seek to increase visitor access, including Herb Garden and summerhouse including access over the bridges, to the orchard and the mill. Provide seating in the summerhouse.

FH5 Improve pedestrian safety at road Work with the Highways Agency to improve pedestrian safety at the road crossing between West Gate crossing between West Gate car park car park and West Gate. and West Gate

FH6 Resurface West Gate car park Resurface West Gate car park to improve wheelchair access.

FH7 Improve condition of area near West Gate Improve the condition of the area near West Gate including Rookery Wood. Reduce the visual impact of sewage works, the car park and screen belt woodland.

FH8 Conserve and interpret the history of West Conserve and interpret the long history of West Gate and the monastic route. Gate and monastic route

FH9 Protect and interpret archaeology Protect and interpret archaeology e.g. precinct wall and the old dairy in Rookery Wood.

FH10 Restore the 17th century Mallory Carry out restoration works to the 17th century painting of the Mallorie family which previously hung in Studley family portrait Hall and is now in storage and look at options for public display.

108 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 8 Long Term Plans Great care has been taken to consolidate, Vision for the Abbey Precinct Secondly, having improved conservation conserve and reveal the fabric of the ruins, of the whole of the abbey’s setting and — Identify and protect the exchange but the associated removal of rubble and The vision is two-fold. enlarging the opportunities for physical of views between Fountains Hall and access, the aim must be to match that vegetation, and the creation of a smooth, Caring for the whole of this area, including Kitchen Bank. with inspirational interpretation, aimed green sward in the immediate vicinity of all the estate buildings and landscape the buildings, has resulted in the loss of at all levels of age and interest, hence — Thin the beech plantation at Rookery setting, should be coherent, with each much of the romantic and mysterious intellectually and emotionally engaging Wood and replant as oak and hazel element being given the same attention atmosphere, so frequently depicted in the visitor at a more profound level than woodland. to the detail of its care as the abbey ruins is always available today. Thus, the history 18th and early 19th century views. themselves (including all available estate of the ruins and the wider monastic Character Area D — Abbey Precinct buildings, the mill leat, Kitchen Bank Also lost is some of the visual and landscape must be tied to patterns of etc) and the wider amenity grassland emotional connection of the abbey to its medieval use, estate management, belief, Summary of Condition and History being managed to create a less utilitarian working landscape: the Abbey Mill (c.1140); social and cultural milieu; more should character (whilst accepting that accessible This large character area is dominated by and Kitchen Bank, on the southern slope of be then be made of the cataclysmic shift circulation is one of the key requirements the substantial, evocative and beautiful the valley, with its archaeological remains in religious, social, political and cultural here). Visitors can then be encouraged remains of the Cistercian Abbey of of monastic agriculture, industry and mores which followed the Dissolution; to explore more aspects of the site, hence St. Mary (1132-1539), which were so fishponds and the imposing precinct wall. vital, too, is the story of the role of the reducing the intensity of footfall in some successfully incorporated into the Studley abbey in one of the country’s greatest Today, the main access route, from places, with a consequent benefit to the Royal Water Garden by William Aislabie, gardens; and its subsequent history, the Visitor Centre, is rather utilitarian monument and to the quality of from 1767. Quite understandably and as national (indeed, international) and awkward, as the narrow path cuts the visitor’s experience. rightly, the abbey, now a scheduled archaeological monument and icon, straight down Swanley Bank. Also open monument, has become an iconic image should not be overlooked. of Yorkshire and receives huge numbers to improvement are access to Kitchen of visitors. Unfortunately, the abbey rather Bank (currently only via a bridleway overshadows its neighbour — the ground- along its southern edge); views to the breaking Studley Royal Water Garden — abbey, from the east and south; and the and it appears that the vast majority provision of points at which the visitor can of visitors to Fountains Abbey and Studley linger and contemplate the history and Royal World Heritage Site do not venture atmosphere of this special place. Perhaps beyond the abbey, into the gardens. the biggest loss, however, is the sense This means that they do not understand that the abbey was, in the 18th century, or enjoy Fountains Abbey in its role as a grand culmination to the design of the a highpoint in the experience of the 18th remarkable water garden, despite the fact century landscape as a whole, coming that, from that time, the view of the abbey to the finale first and often not from the east has become one of the most experiencing the rest of the play. significant, iconic, views of this part of Yorkshire.

Appendix 8 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 109 6 Year Priorities for Abbey Precinct

Action Project name Description

AP1 Work with the English Heritage Trust Continue to work in partnership with the English Heritage Trust to monitor and maintain the fabric of the to maintain the fabric of the abbey abbey according to the Guardianship Agreement.

AP2 Repair dams and walls of River Skell Continue to undertake a programme of repairs to the dams and walls of the River Skell, to maintain its character as a working river, supporting the mill and abbey, and, further downstream, as a formal feature of the water garden. Priorities include:

— repairs to the lower weir and river walls at East Green

— repairs to the upper weir just to the east of the abbey

— removal of the silt between the upper and middle weirs to maintain flow and the Abbey Green pools

AP3 Restore 18th century romantic qualities Following innovative and comprehensive archaeological research, by careful planting, natural plant colonisation, of the abbey reinstatement of decorative abbey stone work and management of the immediate and wider landscape setting, seek to recapture something of the romantic atmosphere which was so prevalent in the second half of the 18th century, when the abbey was incorporated fully into William Aislabie’s garden design as a mysterious and awe- inspiring ruin in a garden setting.

AP4 Establish varied programme of grassland Outwith the abbey ruins, establish a varied programme of grassland management, promoting a herb-rich sward management around the abbey ruins and, by considered patterns of mowing, directing footfall to disperse visitors to minimise/manage compaction, erosion and damage to archaeology.

AP5 Expand range of interpretation about Enlarge the range and type of interpretation about the site, making available its many-layered, nuanced and the abbey internationally significant history.

AP6 Increase conservation and interpretation Increase conservation and interpretation of, as well as visitor access to: of the mill area, hillside north of abbey and Kitchen Bank — the mill area and other estate buildings — the quarried hillside to the north of Abbey Walk (including Echo Cliffs)

— links with Kitchen Bank including the medieval fishponds, precinct wall and veteran trees

This makes it possible to more effectively to explore the building of the abbey over several centuries, placing the abbey in the setting of the working monastic landscape and making available important views from key locations.

110 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 8 AP7 Review floodlighting infrastructure Review the current floodlighting infrastructure by either screening existing lights/removing from mature trees or considering smaller more discrete lights. The presence of bats and archaeology will influence intensity and location.

AP8 Conserve monastic fish ponds Conserve monastic fishponds on Kitchen Bank and in Robin Hood’s Wood.

AP9 Review manure run-off with neighbouring In consultation with the neighbouring dairy farmer review ways of reducing manure run-off into Robin Hood’s dairy farmer Wood, Kitchen Bank and the Skell.

AP10 Develop veteran tree plans for remaining Develop veteran tree management plans for remaining 2 yews of the Seven Sisters. yews of Seven Sisters

AP11 Manage trees and shrubs in the area Manage the trees and shrubs in this area, including young trees and ancient veterans, to secure their long-term health, to promote diversity, and to ensure that the trees and shrubs contribute to the visitors’ experience of the site by enriching understanding of the history and symbolism of the abbey precinct; revealing, obscuring and framing views and subtly managing visitor circulation patterns.

AP12 Maintain views of Huby’s Tower from the Where possible, maintain the open views of Huby’s Tower from the Visitor Centre and approach path, Visitor Centre and approach path, and and from Kitchen Bank. Maintain viewing points to abbey on the east-west path along the top of the valley from Kitchen Bank at Swanley Bank.

AP13 Continue precinct wall repairs in Robin Complete the programme of repairs on the precinct wall in Robin Hood’s Wood and small sections at the west Hood’s Wood and west end of Kitchen end of Kitchen Bank. Bank

AP14 Accommodate large numbers of visitors to Continue to be able to accommodate the large numbers of people visiting the abbey ruins — wherever possible, abbey ruins whilst conserving monument dispersing patterns of footfall, thus improving conditions for the monument and augmenting opportunities to improve physical, intellectual and emotional access.

AP15 Provide more seating at the abbey and Provide well-designed, simple, seating to encourage visitors to linger and absorb the abbey’s history along Abbey Walk and atmosphere.

AP16 Repair Robin Hood’s Well and improve Repair Robin Hood’s Well on De Grey’s Walk and improve its setting by reducing surrounding yew and reinstate setting historic planting.

AP17 Improve landscaping of De Grey’s Walk Improve landscaping along De Grey’s Walk by removing poor yew hedge and establishing low level planting including box and ferns by path and bank.

AP18 Protect and interpret flora and fauna Protect and interpret the interesting range of fauna and flora associated with the abbey ruins, the Skell, Kitchen of abbey ruins and surrounding area Bank and the wider setting, including bats, veteran trees, great crested newts and white-clawed crayfish.

Appendix 8 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 111 AP19 Review environmental conditions for Review the environmental conditions for the collection of abbey objects displayed in glass cases on the top collections in the mill floor of the mill

AP20 Develop research framework for the abbey Develop and implement a research framework for the abbey area. area

Long Term Plans — Seek to increase visitor access to Unfortunately, gradual contraction of the of some of what has been lost has already Kitchen Bank and interpet this once designed landscape, even from the later- been undertaken (e.g., Temple of Fame); — Investigate and implement a new busy industrial/agricultural part of the 18th century, compounded by restrictions more is essential, and would help Studley and improved access, including a less abbey and its role as part of the Aislabies imposed by the current Sporting Owner, to become much more than a beautiful and steep path with resting places, down garden for visitors. has meant that today’s visitors are only tranquil garden and to regain its rightful Swanley Bank. This will provide a better able to access and enjoy about half of this place as a dramatic visitor attraction of visitor route from the Visitor Centre — Seek to remove the 30 year old block of character area. Many walks, particularly international standing, with an importance to the abbey. Explore options to bring grand fir at Kitchen Bank and reinstate on the western slopes, are inaccessible to rival that of its partner and neighbour, visitors to the abbey from the west, as the pasture that existed until the 1920s, and are gradually being concealed by Fountains Abbey. historically required by the Cistercians. to restore the abbey ruins pastoral and earth and overgrown vegetation. Even the broadleaf setting. substantial Kendall’s Walk, which provided Vision for the Water Garden — Continue programme of woodland important links to the Banqueting House thinning on Swanley Bank. The vision is to reinstate the water garden Character Area E — The Water and the water garden in the first half of at the heart of the Studley Estate and Garden the 18th century, is closed and starting — Ease congestion on the main Abbey at the core of the visitor experience, by to disappear under self-set and planted Walk and De Grey Walk by undertaking Summary of Condition and History introducing the visitor to the gardens trees. On the east, openings to adjacent selective removal of trees and shrubs from the deer park, by significantly areas, such as Mackershaw Park, have been which create the ‘tunnel’ of planting This large and complex character area increasing access to the valley sides and blocked up, obscuring views. Tree growth along the former and by re-opening forms the core of John and William by introducing the abbey ruins as a visual, has concealed several other important other routes, through adjacent Aislabie’s gardens, created from 1718 to intellectual and emotional climax to the views. In the last two centuries, a number woodland. 1781. It is the site of the most celebrated Gardens Tour. and spectacular of Studley’s features, of buildings and structures have been — Recapture some of the 18th century including the geometric pools and canals, boarded up, reduced to ruins or removed The vision is predicated on rediscovering, presentation of the abbey as a garden designed vistas, such as the ‘Surprise View’ entirely. restoring and presenting the gardens’ feature by addressing site-wide of the abbey, and four surviving garden history, meaning and exceptional This decline, though hard to avoid in circulation to encourage visitors to buildings: the Temples of Fame and Piety, significance, through the reintegration such a large and demanding landscape, approach the Abbey from the east, as a the Octagon Tower and the Banqueting of the terraced pleasure grounds on the has made it difficult for visitors to crescendo in their tour of the gardens House, with its modified ‘Coffin Lawn’. valley sides with the canals and pools understand how the gardens would (see Actions in Water Garden). The well-trodden visitor circuit takes in of the valley floor, the conservation have looked in their prime, to appreciate all of these attractions, mainly following and interpretation of key ornamental — By felling or thinning broadleaf trees and the interconnectivity of features, and paths on the valley floor and the High structures, the sensitive and appropriate conifer plantations in the vicinity, ensure to interrogate the ambitious aesthetic Ride, on the eastern slope. tree and woodland management, and the that views of the abbey are not intruded philosophies articulated by John and reopening of views both along and across upon by inappropriate planting. William Aislabie in their planting, buildings the water garden. and views. Restoration and interpretation

112 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 8 For many years, parts of the water garden the importance of recovering more of the and the wooded valley sides have been gardens for the benefit of the public, the managed as game cover for the benefit of primary imperative, at this stage, is to the Shoot. Inevitably the consequence has identify and halt decay of historic fabric. been that the form, structure and meaning The disappearing features of this unique of the 18th century designed landscape, work of art must be protected, conserved with its distinctive tree groupings and and, where possible, recovered. sinuous walks, have been, in places, submerged under uncontrolled scrub growth and eroded paths. Therefore, it must be asserted that, notwithstanding

6 Year Priorities for the Water Garden

Action Project name Description

WG1 Improve access to the water garden from Develop green transport initiatives and footpaths to improve links between the Visitor Centre and the water the Visitor Centre gardens to encourage visitors to enter the water garden from the north.

WG2 Produce a Tree Management/Planting Plan Plot key ancient and veteran trees and groups of trees, ensuring that distinctive tree compositions are recorded. for the water garden Formulate and implement plans for tree conservation, formative pruning and re-planting.

WG3 Protect historic paths and drives Protect the surviving historic paths and drives (several of which are terraced) which are currently inaccessible to visitors and which are, in a number of places, disappearing beneath slippage and recolonization.

WG4 Reopen historic walk on the eastern slopes Improve the circulation on the east valley side by reinstating the walk from Anne Boleyn’s Seat through Galand Wood westward to De Grey’s walk.

WG5 Initiate programme of tree management In partnership with the Shoot owners, initiate a programme of tree management on the west and east valley on the valley sides sides. Priorities include the east valley sides including the slopes above the Temple of Piety and thinning the woodlands along the High Ride which include ancient examples of Scots Pine, beech and yew. The tree management works will improve conditions for younger trees and a better environment for veteran trees.

WG6 Removal of inappropriate 20th century Consider removal of new cherry trees on Laurel Bank, plane trees on lower slopes of Tent Hill, gold tree plantings Chamaecyparis pisifera near the Fishing Tabernacle.

WG7 Interpret the design and construction of Provide interpretation of the water garden’s design and construction to emphasise: their significance in the the water garden WHS; the importance of the designed interchange of views; the 18th century narrative/design beginning at the northern entrance; significances of the design of the ornamental structures and garden buildings.

Appendix 8 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 113 WG8 Renew formal yew hedges and bosquets Undertake long-term renewal of the formal yew hedges and bosquets in the valley floor and near the in the valley floor Banqueting House.

WG9 Planting on the High Ride To reduce erosion and compaction, plant groups of native ferns and shrubs along the High Ride.

WG10 Restore earthwork ramparts Restore earthwork ramparts in the vicinity of the Moon Ponds and on the west side of the Upper Canal

WG11 Encourage access to Tent Hill Given the importance of exchange of views to and from Tent Hill, encourage access to the summit by reinstating path to viewing point at the summit. Increase opportunities for visitors to sit and engage with the past and absorb the atmosphere of Tent Hill and its views over the water garden by providing benches and interpretation. Consider rebuilding pavilion, or tent.

WG12 Continue to monitor pH of Banqueting Continue to monitor pH of Banqueting House lawn and manage the magnesian limestone grassland to House lawn and manage the magnesian conserve its diversity. Remove the threat of invasive and dominant tor grass, Brachypodium pinnatum. limestone grassland to conserve its Prevent loss of area of limestone grassland to tree and shrub encroachment. diversity

WG13 Improve soil condition at Half Moon Improve the condition of soils and reduce erosion/compaction in vicinity of Half Moon Reservoir Reservoir and Rustic Bridge and Rustic Bridge.

WG14 Desilt Half Moon Reservoir Establish a regular programme of desilting the Half Moon Reservoir with full consideration of how to manage the silt.

WG15 Desilt and improve circulation in Desilt the Moon Ponds and look at options to improve circulation in the ponds. These measures should help Moon Ponds recover and maintain the reflective qualities of the Moon Ponds, which are essential to their meaning.

WG16 Investigate options for managing flooding Investigate possibilities for redesigning/modifying management of water between Half Moon Reservoir in the Quebec/Rustic Bridge area and Quebec to help manage flood events and reduce damage to this area of the garden.

WG17 Reinstate Quebec as landscape feature Reinstate Quebec as a landscape feature within the designed landscape.

WG18 Reopen historic views Recover as much as possible of the web of interlaced views which contribute much to the significance of the water garden. Key views include:

— Exchange of views between the Octagon Tower and the Banqueting House and site of the Rotondo.

— Exchange of views between the site of the Rotondo and Octagon Tower, deer park and lake.

— Exchange of views between Tent Hill, Half Moon Reservoir, Temple of Fame and Anne Boleyn’s Seat.

WG19 Archaeological survey of the Rotondo Through archaeological survey and research establish the location and interpret the Rotondo.

114 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 8 WG20 Conserve the precinct wall at Remove self-seeded trees and vegetation growing against the stone monastic boundary wall. Continue the Galand Wood programme of restoration of the monastic wall.

WG21 Conserve the lead and stone statues Carry out conservation repairs to the graffiti on the Wrestlers and investigate feasibility of reinstating historic white painted finish to lead and stone statues.

WG22 Conservation of Temple of Piety Regularly maintain cast iron and stone gutters including leaf removal. Limewash columns and stucco every 5 years. Improve ventilation of roof space and install a more permanent system of ventilation to the side rooms.

WG23 Conserve Rustic Lodge ruins Carry out archaeological excavation/recording of Rustic Lodge ruins, consolidate wall tops and point up open joints, consider soft topping to walls. Interpret the remains of the building.

WG24 Conserve High Seat Undertake conservation work and reinstate the structure into the landscape.

WG25 Crayfish survey and mitigation Develop survey and mitigation programme for freshwater crayfish to understand the current population and ensure this is protected during routine land management and ongoing river maintenance and repair works.

Long Term Plans and the rugged terrain of Seven Bridges the cascade as the Lake debouches to the and a sheltering verandah. Today, the Valley. High Fall, a spectacular cascade river; followed by what must have been the café has been spoiled with hard cement — Seek to reopen selected walks on the fed by a reservoir in Mackershaw Park, breathtaking High Fall, cascading from the rendering, its quoins neatly delineated, the east and west hillsides. Seek to open dropped into the Lake on its eastern side. top of the Mackershaw plateau; then the light paint colour means it overshadows up High Walk, High Seat and viewing long cascade flanked by the pair of Fishing the adjacent stone Fishing Tabernacles. platforms to visitors. From the north bank of the Lake could be Tabernacles — the gateway, both physical The café has been hedged about with seen the distant eye-catcher of How Hill, and metaphorical, to the water garden inappropriate conifers, as if to separate — Restore the 18th century wall associated as well as several key garden buildings, with the water garden. beyond, with the cliffs at the mouth of the it from the wider setting. The planting arranged in a broad vista — especially the narrow valley supporting the Rotondo and lends the Café — and its vicinity — a highly — Restore the exchange of views between Rotondo and the Octagon Tower. Until the Octagon Tower, to west and east. This suburban air, cutting the visitor off almost Octagon Tower and Mackershaw and 2010, many of these views were blocked is one of the most remarkable landscape completely from what lies beyond the from High Seat over the water gardens. by a large, irregular island, created in vistas one could imagine. And, at last, its magnificent gates. the 19th century, which dominated the recovery seems almost within grasp. Character Area F — Studley Lake centre of the Lake. The removal of this As a whole, the Lake character area is a island — a major undertaking in 2011 — has The Studley Café, pale against the busy one, playing an important role in the Summary of Condition and History contributed to the process of reopening landscape background, marks the location dispersal of visitors across the estate, thus key views into and out of the water garden, of the entrance to the water garden. reducing their impact on the most popular John Aislabie’s Studley Lake (started c.1718, the principal axis being the Long Canal. It is a busy and welcome place to find areas — the abbey and water garden. The expanded in the following decades), with Indeed, from the raised vantage point, at refreshments — and it has fulfilled this role area accommodates visitors using the Lake its dams, cascade and Fishing Tabernacles, the north end of the Lake, one has a 180° since at least the 1860s. The building may car park, which developed on the site of is a pivotal feature of the designed panorama of extraordinary theatricality: have replaced an earlier lodge. It originally a carriage park for 19th century tourists; landscape, providing a transition between to the left (east and ESE), one captures the had a softer, more Picturesque quality those starting walks into the Deer Park; the formality of the water garden, the beginning of the river (as it describes great — even somewhat Swiss in style, with an and those accessing a walk around the more naturalistic parkland of Studley Royal meanders down the ‘Serpent Valley’); then attractive emphasis on overhanging eaves Lake, into Seven Bridges Valley (both free

Appendix 8 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 115 entry zones), the latter being extremely seen visitors arriving in their carriages Vision for Studley Lake this area is to the whole. The vision for popular, particularly with local and / or and gathering at the Canal Gates for over this area is, therefore, simple: the Lake repeat visitors. a century, at least. This arrival point also The recent removal of the island has is intended to ‘announce’ the water fulfils the extremely important purpose of already achieved one of the mains aims for garden and invite contemplation of a Although there is concern that allowing bringing visitors to the ‘correct’ starting this area: that of drawing attention to the remarkable, 180° vista. That is what it vehicular traffic to enter and park in this point for tours of the early 18th century pivotal role of the Lake in the remarkable should do once more. area — to some, it ‘represents perhaps the water garden. Any proposals to minimise landscape composition. By starting to largest single source of disturbance to the vehicular traffic here, in principle, is recover its 18th century appearance, special qualities of the World Heritage sensible; but the impact of such a change including some of the key views across it, Site from visitor traffic’ — this area has must be carefully monitored. we now have more than a hint of how vital

6 Year Priorities for Studley Lake

Action Project name Description

SL1 Monitor and restrict vehicle numbers in Monitor and restrict number of vehicles in Lake Car Park to protect grassland and trees. Look at posts or low Lake Car Park fencing to prevent cars parking under tree canopies.

SL2 Provide better access to the vantage point Provide better access to the vantage point at the head of the Lake (near where Aislabie might have planned a at the head of the Lake house). Present the Nebot view (c.1760) here, as a tantalising vision of what was intended.

SL3 Erect signage to slow vehicles on main Erect signage or discrete traffic control to slow vehicles along main drive from Studley Roger and routes to car route to car park park.

SL4 Formalise desire line footpath along north Formalise/surface the desire line footpath along the north bank of the Lake between café and Seven Bridges. bank of Lake

SL5 Produce and implement landscape plan Produce and implement a landscape plan for Studley Café and the surrounding area to improve appearance of for Studley Tea Room and surrounding the building, the landscape and reopen views along the lake balustrade. landscape.

SL7 Restore carriage drive east of the Lake Restore the carriage drive to the east of the Lake and replace post and wire mesh deer fence and gate with more historically suitable boundary treatment.

SL8 Remove box elder north west of Studley Remove box elder at NW corner of Café to reopen the exchange of views between Café surroundings, Canal Tea Room Gates and the Lake and Deer Park.

SL9 Examine and repair cascade, weir and Examine cascade, weir and tunnels and undertake repairs. tunnels

SL10 Redecorate Fishing Tabernacles Reinstate lath and plaster coved ceilings and redecorate in distemper.

116 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 8 Long Term Plans developed from the Free Warren Licence, Park which remain evident today. Map By 1838, the estate had been the seat of first purchased by the Lord of the Manor analysis — especially reference to Thomas Mrs. Elizabeth Lawrence for some thirty — Reduce the impact of the car park in 1343. Jefferys’ plan of 1775 — combined with years. The vast scale of the ornamental by reducing its footprint, improve careful examination of the trees on site, landscape contracted somewhat during landscaping and provide a frequent In 1452, the Mallory family acquired reveal that there was extensive planting the 19th century, but it was Mrs. Lawrence green transport link to Canal Gates an interest in the estate and thus they through the 18th century. John was who was responsible for erecting the stone from the Visitor Centre or by foot. continued, surviving the impact of the certainly responsible for introducing many obelisk at the western end of the principal Dissolution and supporting the Crown’s of the limes (Tilia x europaea ‘Pallida’) to avenue — which features as an important — Improve disabled access from the Lake interests in the neighbourhood. In 1607, the principal avenue, which adjoins what ‘milestone’, glimpsed on the new vehicular Car Park to Canal Gates. the first systematic record of the estate seems to be a secondary, slightly earlier, route to the Visitor Centre. She, too, described Studley Hall itself, together with — Selectively remove the coniferous N/S lime avenue (also ‘Pallida’, probably probably gapped up the main avenue and its, ‘court, fold, orchard, hopgarths and plantation on the east bank of the planted c.1690), leading to Gillet Hill. John the Oak Line, which runs eastwards from gardens’. The Civil War left its mark on Lake and replace with broadleaved Aislabie probably also initiated the planting the vicinity of Rough Bridge and which the estate: the Mallories supported the woodland. Ensure trees are excluded of lime trees along the crest of the Dale, seems to have been planted in association Royalist cause. Fines and debts followed, from archaeology of High Fall. Repair which was then ornamented, by his son, with building of the High Stables, from almost certainly limiting significant change / consolidate the remnants of the with horse chestnut trees. 1728. It was also during Mrs. Lawrence’s on the estate. Only when the upstart, constructed, rugged cliff-face time that the glories of the many mature George Aislabie, who had married a After 1721, following the débacle of the trees in the Studley Deer Park were much — Make much more use of estate Mallory daughter, came into the estate South Sea Bubble, John Aislabie devoted appreciated: she commissioned portraits buildings to enlarge interpretation in 1663, and had successfully resisted more time to his estate. He focused on of some of the most remarkable of the and educational opportunities. the rightful claims of his two sisters-in- new gardens which he was developing trees, which were then illustrated in J.C. law by 1667, were there significant new to the south, in the rocky terrain which Loudon’s very influential, 8-volumed — Improve the presentation of the Canal developments. George’s death, in 1675, framed the River Skell; it is likely that he Arboretum et Fruticetum Britannicum Gates entrance by looking at options is likely to have led to a pause; in 1689 his approached these new gardens via a gate of 1838. to replace the current ticket office second son, another George, took on the in the south-west corner of the Deer Park, and shop. oversight of Studley, though he did not which thus linked his manor house — which In 1859, the Studley estate passed to the come into his majority until 1690. By 1693, was regularly refurbished, but never, in Earl De Grey & Ripon. A statesman of Character Area G — Studley Royal George was dead. His younger brother, his lifetime rebuilt — with the new water great renown, playing a leading role in Deer Park John, inherited the estate. garden. government for over fifty years, he died in 1909. Despite his dedication to public life, Summary of Condition and History The two George Aislabies may have During John’s time, the Studley stables Lord Ripon also reworked the house once entertained ambitious plans for Studley. were built, in the Palladian style, to the The Studley Royal Deer Park represents again, creating an enclosed, formal garden George senior seems to have consolidated design of Roger Morris. This seems to around the house. He also established a the heart of the original Studley estate. the holdings of land on the east side of have presaged a new house — but a radical Its early history is somewhat obscured. In pheasantry — the Pheasantry Cottage of the Park, building a new stone wall and, rebuilding of the earlier house had to 1875 serving as gamekeeper’s house. This the early 14th century, however, the land probably, the new entrance to the Park wait until the later 1740s, with further was intensively farmed, as evidenced in was a sign of a passion for field sports, on the east. This, in turn, precipitated modifications thereafter, when it was enjoyed by both the first and second the extant earthworks of lynchets, ridge the west/east avenue across the Park, its commissioned by his son, William. It is and furrow. By the mid-14th century, Marquis of Ripon — and still exerting its eastern end focusing on the magnificent probable that the latter also undertook influence on the shape of the estate today. reflecting the impact of the Black Death, view of Ripon Cathedral. But it is to John, some gapping-up of the principal, lime the manor came to dominate, and the land Indeed, sport of another kind was served who did not die until 1742, that we must avenue, as well as other planting through when, in 1891, a golf course was laid out was used as pasture. There is no identified look for some of the major changes to the the Park. date for emparkment, but it probably in the Deer Park.

Appendix 8 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 117 The most significant contribution of Studley Royal and Fountains Abbey had Conservation Vision for Studley Royal The vision is to conserve and maintain the Lord Ripon, however, was the building long been on the tourist trail — following Deer Park legibility of the 18th century parkland, with of St. Mary’s Church in 1871. This was the purchase of the estate by the West wood pasture, its long-established deer commissioned from William Burges, a Riding Council, in 1966. In 1983, the It is acknowledged that, whilst the herd and its many magnificent ancient and leading architect, whose passion for early National Trust acquired the property Park displays many centuries of history veteran trees, especially its avenues, which Gothic architecture was matched only and, in 1986, the estate was inscribed — demonstrated, for example, in mark the desired circulation and frame by his enthusiasm for the rich decorative as a World Heritage Site. Since that archaeological remains of the mediaeval key views. Conserving and promoting details which imbued Pre-Raphaelite date, the Park retains its function as a village of Studlei Magna with its ridge and these great historical and cultural assets paintings and early Arts and Crafts Deer Park. There is still relatively limited furrow farming — its principal significances will also serve to protect the very valuable ornament. This Church was one of a pair, vehicular access to the Park, and it remains depend upon activities undertaken in the ecological assets, for which the Park is the second being Christ the Consoler, expansive, well-treed and beautiful, a rich late 17th century and the 18th century. already designated locally. built at Newby. At Studley, the church ecological resource and a deep reservoir Magnificent formal avenues and other was accompanied by an equally distinctive of archaeological, historical, arboricultural tree compositions were planted in the Church / Choristers’ Cottage, also and cultural meaning. Deer Park to enhance the topography, by Burges. direct views and indicate walks and drives through the parkland, and the bones The 20th century saw not only the impact of this layout are still evident in the fine of ever greater numbers of visitors — collection of mature and veteran trees.

6 Year Priorities for Studley Royal Deer Park

Action Project name Description

SP1 Use LiDAR to carry out tree and Acquire full coverage of LiDAR to assist with tree and archaeology management in the Deer Park. archaeology management

SP2 Record and conserve veteran trees Record and conserve veteran trees and distinctive tree compositions in the Deer Park through the development and develop a phased tree continuity of a Veteran Tree Management Plan. This will help consolidate this area as a fine exemplar of a Deer Park and programme Wood Pasture, both UK BAP Priority Habitats.

Establish a long-term programme of replacing, as and when required, historic / veteran trees, which characterise the 18th century parkland designed landscape, with trees of the same species (cloned / vegetatively propagated where possible) in a pattern / grouping as close to the historic pattern as feasible. Recognise the importance of major, forest trees and also smaller or more ornamental / productive trees, including hawthorn, field maple, cherry.

SP3 Carry out programme of tree surgery to Carry out programme of tree surgery to improve conditions for the oldest limes (Tilia x europaea ‘Pallida’ improve condition of the limes on main and Tilia cordata) in the main west/east avenue which dates from late 17th century/early 18th century and west/east avenue the mid to late 18th century lime trees. Also carry out minor tree surgery to mid/late 18th century limes.

118 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 8 SP4 Protect limes on south avenue leading Develop a Veteran Tree Management Plan for the ancient limes leading to Gillet Hill. Remove deadwood from to Gillet Hill vicinity of the avenue.

SP5 Propagate trees for future of lime avenues Initiate a programme of propagating Tilia x europaea ‘Pallida’ for future management of lime avenues in the Deer Park.

SP6 Thin woodland belt on west side of Thin the woodland belt on the west side of the Deer Park. Deer Park

SP7 Manage the deer without impacting Manage the deer (and any other proposed livestock) at a level and in a manner that that does not impact historic fabric negatively on the historic fabric of the Deer Park, deer health or the ecology of the site.

SP8 Implement the Grazing Management Plan Implement the Grazing Management Plan for the Deer Park which includes an assessment of grazing the Park with a mix of deer and cattle, as well as rotational cutting regimes to improve fodder value and biodiversity interest of the sward.

SP9 Protect all views through and beyond Seek to protect all views through and beyond the Deer Park, especially to the east, including those within the Deer Park buffer zone.

SP10 Encourage greater visitor access, Encourage greater visitor access, understanding and enjoyment of the Deer Park by promoting its history understanding and enjoyment of Deer Park and landscape, revising current signage and continuing to develop our programme of deer park walks. Monitor use and enjoyment of the Deer Park and the health of the deer to ensure a good balance between conservation and access.

SP11 Remove inappropriate trees and planting Develop a plan for the management /removal of inappropriate trees and tree groupings planted in the 20th century.

SP12 Management of deadwood Develop a deadwood policy. Except in areas close to the avenues, or in areas of visual sensitivity, fallen deadwood should be left in situ (at least for 48 hours, as some decay organisms may need to transfer between the parent tree and the fallen branch). Where feasible, fallen branches should be retained within areas of tall- herb grassland, to provide food sources for the larvae of saproxylic invertebrate species. Repeat saproxylic invertebrate survey of 99/00.

SP13 The Dale — general condition, presentation Ensure the Dale is inviting and its role is interpreted. Remove the deadwood from the valley floor to provide and interpretation a walk to Rough Bridge. Foster flora suited to magnesian limestone along the floor of the Dale.

SP14 Provide more benches Provide more simple timber benches for visitors.

SP15 Continue programme of repairs to the Continue the programme of repairs to the Deer Park wall. Deer Park wall

SP16 Restore and interpret Rough Bridge Undertake substantial repairs to Rough Bridge and renewal of damaged stonework.

Appendix 8 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 119 SP17 Remove trees from site of Studley House Remove the trees from the site of Studley House and delineate and interpret the site.

SP18 Conserve and interpret medieval land Ensure that the history of medieval land management — visible in earthwork remains of the village of Studlei management Magna, field boundaries, lynchets, remnant ridge and furrow is understood, conserved and interpreted.

Long Term Plans and the adjacent Chinese Wood, into of electrical transmission — installed blocking of the 18th century bypass tunnel one of the earliest and largest Chinese just below the Lake outlet. around a natural swallow hole means that — Develop a greater degree of public landscapes in Georgian England, complete there is now no surface flow in the lower engagement with the Deer Park through with a series of wooden, Chinoiserie Chinese Wood, including the Ting, was reaches of the river, during the summer. improved green transport links with bridges, a tea house or ‘ting’ (Temple, lost from the estate in the 1960s, when it the Visitor Centre and enhanced Pavilion) and characterful planting on the was sold by the Vyners. There is now little Vision for Seven Bridges Valley interpretation and promotion. obvious evidence of the Chinese landscape rocky hillsides, where the steep, eroded The vision is to recover the picture of limestone cliff appears, in places, to have aside from clear archaeological traces, — Undertake conservation of the though the general character of the Valley, the river snaking through the Valley to ha-ha north of Kendall’s Walk. been cut back to exaggerate its drama. conserve, enhance and interpret the Extensive and meticulous river engineering with the very distinctive, rough, limestone cliff faces and hanging woodland still dramatic, Picturesque — still somewhat — Reinstate the historic boundaries produced a series of weirs, rapids and convey a ‘Chinese’ flavour. John Aislabie’s ‘Chinese’ — character of the Valley, of the walled Deer Park by reintegrating cascades to enliven the valley with the Roman Monument survives, but in reduced whilst recalling its previous incarnations the lost areas of Gillet Hill into the sight and sound of rushing water. form; it is now generally called the ‘Devil’s as a setting for the Roman Monument. Deer Park. Probably after 1781, the bridges were Chimney’. There also remains some fine The prevailing perception of the Valley rebuilt in stone, in the rustic style, with planting, including veteran sweet chestnuts as an informal country walk should be Character Area H — Seven Bridges challenged / enlarged by highlighting Valley adjacent stone-paved fords for carriages. in the valley bottom. These represented a move away from the important links with the rest of the The Valley, part of the free-to-enter zone, Aislabies’ designed landscape, through Summary of Condition and History the overt use of Chinoiserie motifs, but retained natural, rugged textures, is extremely popular with visitors, who the restoration of paths and views into the Seven Bridges Valley has had several signifying a shift towards a more general enter the Valley at the Lake end. Once in surrounding character areas, particularly incarnations, including being part of the Picturesque taste (in itself, of course, this the Valley, they are constrained by deer Gillet Hill. Avoiding new planting and park from at least the seventeenth century. was infused by the ‘Chinese’ style). The fences at the tops of the slopes and by a reducing the amount of deadwood on the It was probably first brought into Studley valley’s sheer limestone cliffs, scree slopes lack of paths leading to the adjacent parts Valley floor will assist in this subtle change Royal’s designed landscape in the 1730s, and hanging woodland still revealed the of the estate — Mackershaw Park and Gillet of emphasis. by John Aislabie, who may have introduced impact of China (or, at least, how ‘China’ Hill, or even the Devil’s Chimney, and must the exaggerated meanders, especially at was construed in the west). either climb the steep hillside, leave the the mouth of the valley, where there is a estate, following the public footpath, or line of sweet chestnuts, probably planted The design of what became known as retrace their steps back to the Lake. by John. He, too, was probably responsible Seven Bridges Valley has been little The slopes of the Valley, particularly on the for the erection of the Roman Monument modified since William’s day, though northern side, are suffering from severe soil in the then ‘Serpent Valley’. From 1743-45, a major intervention was Major REB erosion, caused by deer and rabbits (and William Aislabie redeveloped the valley, Crompton’s hydro-electric generator — a pioneering exercise in the development some people). The failure and subsequent

120 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 8 6 Year Priorities for Seven Bridges Valley

Action Project name Description

SV1 Enhance ‘Chinese’ characteristics of area Enhance / reveal the ‘Chinese’ characteristics that still exist: ensure that the limestone cliffs are not obscured by vegetation.

SV2 Improve collapsed section of Swallow Carry out measures to improve the collapsed section of the Swallow bypass to reveal the tunnel openings, bypass improve fencing to exclude stock and visitor access. Investigate feasibility of removal of gravel from river bed to recover historic river flow.

SV3 Riverbank erosion Carry out deer management measures such as fencing off areas to reduce erosion of valley slopes and river banks.

SV4 Restore key historic views to Roman Restore key historic views through tree work and removal of some deadwood. Priorities include a) view up Monument and along the valley to the Roman Monument from the valley bottom and b) views along Seven Bridges Valley from the west to capture a view of the limestone ‘chimneys’ (sheer cliffs) on both sides, with intervening hanging woodland.

SV5 Conserve Roman Monument Following detailed archaeological recording, carry out conservation works to Roman Monument and close off and repair the steep eroded path from valley bottom.

SV6 Address soil erosion of cliff slopes Tackle soil erosion on the cliff slopes (without intrusive engineering if possible). Note requirement for survey of effect of wind and rain / southern exposure on cliff faces — this should help inform any necessary treatments.

SV7 Modify balance of woodland and grassland Slightly modify the current balance of woodland and grassland by removing (possibly replanting) some of the younger trees that are close to the Valley floor. Introduce 1 or 2 weeping trees.

Long term plans — Improve interpretation to give a greater understanding of the design — Recover the vision of the Skell snaking and evolution of the landscape. its way, in exaggerated meanders, through the Valley. — Restore access to the Roman Monument from Gillet Hill. — Undertake a study to look at the feasibility of restoring the bypass — Increase views into, from and across the tunnel around the swallow hole to Valley (particularly long views of Roman allow surface water flow in the lower Monument and views from the north reaches of the valley. bank of Seven Bridges Valley to the Octagon Tower across Mackershaw).

Appendix 8 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 121 Character Area I — Gillet Hill the summit, by William Aislabie. In later Shoot management has had, and continues which all can be unified, in the eye years it seems to have been one of the to have, a detrimental impact on the health and imagination. Summary of Condition and History more private parts of the estate and off and presentation of the Hill’s remaining the main tourist route by the 19th century. parkland and boundary trees. Given the Immediately, addressing the threats Until the mid-20th century, Gillet Hill was importance of views and vistas to John against the area’s veteran and significant part of Studley Deer Park. This area was Today, the only signs of Gillet Hill’s Aislabie’s landscape design, there can trees must be the first priority. a significant part of the early 18th century parkland origins are the remains of the be no doubt that this area should not be landscape commanding spectacular views Ultimately, it may be that revisiting the very early and important lime avenue obscured and inaccessible. to Seven Bridges Valley, Mackershaw Park, (some of its ancient trees are concealed summit of Gillet Hill will reveal or illuminate perhaps even the Rotondo and Octagon within plantations), a number of open- Vision for Gillet Hill some aspects of the landscape which, as Tower in the water garden, Studley Royal grown mature / veteran trees and the yet, remain rather vague. For example, Park, Lindrick Drive and the house, an dilapidated park wall, forming the eastern The vision is to reintegrate Gillet Hill with it is apparent that the interchange of exceptionally good view of St. Mary’s boundary of this character area. Until the rest of the designed landscape. This views between Mackershaw (especially Church, and How Hill to the south. There 2012, the rest of the Hill was tenanted and will make sense of the remnant Gillet Hill the Lodge) and the Studley Deer Park are also spectacular distant views to Ripon under arable crops. This area has now been avenue (which will no longer come to a are significant: how significant, we Cathedral and beyond. The oldest lime reverted back to parkland. There are still sudden halt against a pine plantation) cannot yet know. avenue on the estate leaves the principal areas of game crops, with 20th century and allow its restoration. It will create the lime avenue in Studley Deer Park and pine plantations supporting populations of opportunity to command large parts of heads south to Gillet Hill. Later in the 18th pheasants for the Shoot. There is no public John and William Aislabie’s landscape and century, the Belvedere was erected near access. The emphasis on agricultural and will provide a pivotal vantage point from

6 Year Priorities for Gillet Hill

Action Project name Description

GH1 Restore parkland character Continue the programme of restoration of the area’s parkland character and reintegration into Studley Royal Park, through arable reversion, removal of 20th century boundaries and removal of 20th century plantations.

GH2 Provide a quiet area for deer Allow deer to graze here, to manage the grassland and help to relieve pressure and thereby reduce soil erosion on the neighbouring Seven Bridges Valley.

GH3 Conserve trees on lime avenue Undertake conservation work to the trees, especially the ancient avenue limes. Gap up and replant lost trees from the avenue using stock propagated from lime trees on site.

GH4 Tree conservation on field margins Decompact and improve soil fertility in root zone of those mature deciduous trees along the former arable field margins.

GH5 Repair 17th century wall Repair the 17th century rubble and cobblestone park wall along the east edge of Gillet Hill.

122 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 8 Long Term Plans Character Area J — Mackershaw This attractive parkland is now grazed Deer Park by red deer and beef cattle and suffers — Encourage visitors to access and enjoy from soil erosion, particularly on the this part of the wider parkland and the Summary of Condition and History steep slopes at the centre of the Park. It range of views from it. is little visited, having lost its links to the Mackershaw Park originated as medieval adjacent water garden and Seven Bridges — Interpret the site of the Belvedere and woodland, owned for over 700 years by Valley. Access is restricted to a public consider its re-creation. the Archbishops of York. In 1731, John footpath and there is no encouragement — Reopen physical, visual and cultural links Aislabie acquired Mackershaw and the for the visitor to linger and explore the with neighbouring character areas such valley slopes to its east and west, enabling Park with its fine trees (including veteran as Seven Bridges. him to expand his designed landscape oaks and field maples); archaeological out of the valley bottom. The main part earthworks (which include remains of the — Seek to thin mid-20th century pine of Mackershaw remained predominantly formal garden layout and a large, Iron Age plantation to reveal remnants of early agricultural, but John started to introduce enclosure); and distant views to Studley lime avenue and in the longer term to some designed elements, including an Royal Park and Lindrick Drive, Gillet Hill remove the pine plantations all together. apparently never-completed formal layout, and the Roman Monument, in Seven with a reservoir for the High Fall, which Bridges Valley. — Taking care to preserve any lining, dropped into Studley Lake; associated desilt dew pond near White Quarry terraces; and, probably, Mackershaw Lake. Vision for Mackershaw Park to improve aquatic biodiversity and provide a water source for wildlife The Mackershaw Lodge, standing at The vision is two-fold: bring this forgotten in this otherwise dry area. the highest edge of the Park, may have parkland back into the visitor circuit by been built in the 1730s-40s and probably re-opening visual, and eventually physical, functioned more as a distant focal point links with the water garden, Seven Bridges than as a frequently used entrance to the Valley and Gillet Hill, beyond; focus Park. The building is now partially derelict. on fostering a rich biodiversity in this relatively quiet and rather isolated part William Aislabie abandoned his father’s of the estate. Visitors should be unfinished formal scheme, though he encouraged to wander through the Park, did retain High Fall (which must have enjoying its healthy trees and sward, long required some sort of reservoir). From 1756 views and striking Lodge buildings and (and perhaps before), Mackershaw was should be given the tools to understand physically separated from the pleasure its long and diverse history, as well as grounds by a ha ha east of the High Ride, its natural diversity. which was increasingly filled with trees, thus closing views to the west. The Park seems to have continued to be used, particularly for the enjoyment of views to the north-west, along Lindrick Drive.

Appendix 8 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 123 6 Year Priorities for Mackershaw Park

Action Project name Description

MP1 Retain character of Deer Park Retain character of Wood Pasture/Deer Park. Grazing intensity has been reduced to address problems of soil erosion and compaction and tree damage.

MP2 Protect and conserve veteran trees Protect and conserve the veteran trees. Protect from livestock. Decompact and improve soil beneath canopy of trees. Exploit deadwood habitats.

MP3 Restore biodiversity of water bodies Restore the biodiversity of the water bodies.

MP4 Improve the landscape presentation to Improve the landscape presentation to Mackershaw Lodges and interpret. Mackershaw Lodges and interpret.

Long Term Plans Character Area K — How Hill boundary of Fountains Park, the Abbot’s known about. As a result, this early focus hunting park, form the character area’s of the Aislabies’ designed landscape, with — Restore physical and visual links Summary of Condition and History northern boundary. St Michael’s chapel its tremendous views extending to the with neighbouring character areas, was used as a pilgrimage chapel and North York Moors, is largely unvisited. How Hill is an outlying part of the Aislabies particularly views to and from the sinuous paths up the hill, traces of which designed landscape. The Tower, built in Octagon Tower, Gillet Hill and survive, may have been part of the ritual of Vision for How Hill 1718 on the Hill’s summit, on the site of Mackershaw Lodge. the pilgrimage. the medieval chapel of St Michael, was a The vision is for visitors to Fountains — Complete consolidation of Mackershaw very important early focal point for many How Hill is still agricultural and is heavily Abbey and Studley Royal to be aware Lodge and interpret for visitors. views from John Aislabie’s gardens and grazed by a dairy herd, which has the of the existence of How Hill and its parkland. The long canal in the water potential to damage the natural and importance, in both the monastic and garden was constructed at the same time archaeological fabric of the Hill. The Tower, designed landscapes. Visitors, in small and deliberately aligned upon it. Clumps and its 18th or 19th century extensions, groups which will not threaten the natural, of large, probably late 18th century, beech is shut up and disused. The financial and archaeological and designed significances trees, planted around the Hill’s summit, physical future of the farm buildings on of this unique area — should be able to seem to have been placed to direct the the north side of the Hill has been secured travel to the Hill, using green transport view. by the recent adaptation of the buildings links from the Visitor Centre. Once there, to five holiday lets and by the application they will be able to climb the Hill and enjoy The Hill, which is at the junction of of sustainable technology wherever its towering beech trees and spectacular three of the Abbey’s granges, is a possible in the building’s restoration views, from both the Hill’s summit and rich archaeological site, likely to have and conversion. the Tower, and to absorb its unusual supported human occupation and atmosphere, which is at once tranquil agriculture for at least the last 4500 years. Although the public is free to walk up to and exhilarating. The upstanding remains of Monk Wall, the the Hill summit, this access is not widely

124 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 8 6 Year Priorities for How Hill

Action Project name Description

HH1 Secure fabric of How Hill Tower Secure the fabric of How Hill Tower and buildings and their landscape setting.

HH2 Conserve nature and manage land Recognise the nature conservation interest of the area and manage the land accordingly. accordingly

HH3 Initiate planting programme Initiate a planting programme to provide a supply of parkland trees and shrubs to provide future trees and to maintain a mixed-age class, recognising the archaeological sensitivities of the site.

HH4 Improve water quality and biodiversity of Carry out measures to improve the water quality and opportunities for biodiversity at the north and south ponds ponds at How Hill. Develop an understanding of the significance of South Pond as a designed landscape feature and ensure conservation work maintains the historic construction.

HH5 History of How Hill Increase understanding of the history and significance of How Hill.

Long Term Plans

— Restore and consider new uses for the Tower.

— Encourage visitor engagement with How Hill by including it on any future green transport route. Promote and interpret the area as a key element of the 18th century designed landscape.

Appendix 8 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 125 Map 1 — Boundaries & Character Areas

World Heritage Site boundary G National Trust ownership boundary G

Character Areas A

Indicative Plan of Character Areas I I F A Visitor Centre & Access Road B Swanley Grange F H J C Fountains Hall D Abbey Precinct E E E Water Garden A F Studley Lake J G Studley Royal Deer Park B H Seven Bridges Valley I Gillet Hill C D J Mackershaw Deer Park K How Hill D

K

126 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 8 Appendix 9: Geodiversity Audit Completed 13th November 2014 Jonathan Larwood, Senior Specialist — Palaeontology, Landscape and Geodiversity, Natural England

Purpose Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal World Heritage Site is centred around a meander in the River Skell. Exposures of Carboniferous sandstone are unconformably overlain by Permian Magnesian Limestone. There is a cover of Pleistocene gravel and clay with associated late Pleistocene landforms. The geological influence at Studley Royal and Fountains Abbey is both implicit and explicit within the natural, designed and built elements of the site’s landscape.

Whilst the site’s geodiversity is not part of the outstanding universal value (OUV) it is an attribute that is clearly associated with OUV and strongly influences the distinctiveness of the designed landscape at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal. Understanding geodiversity is an important part of understanding Fountains and Studley Royal estate, its construction and the design of its landscapes. This is emphasised by the Statement of Outstanding Universal Value (SOUV) which states that ‘the layout of the gardens is determined by the form of the natural landscape, rather than being imposed upon it.’

The current World Heritage Site Management Plan (2009-2014) sets out to better understand the role geology has played in the design of the property’s landscape (Action K6) and to survey and map the estate’s geology (Action N2). In response, this report provides a review of the geodiversity of the Studley Royal and Fountains Abbey World Heritage Site and the influence and role it has played in the location, construction and design of the Abbey and Studley Royal Gardens.

Background Studley Royal and Fountains Abbey is located on the River Skell where it cuts through the Permian Magnesian Limestone escarpment which runs from the Durham Coast to Nottingham. The steep sided River Skell Valley was cut during the Late Pleistocene when the river was swollen with glacial meltwater, cutting down through the Magnesian Limestone into underlying Upper Carboniferous sandstones. The natural shaping of this landscape and the geological resources that it has provided has been central to the establishment of the Abbey and the design of the Studley Royal landscape. The deep and remote valley with the presence of fresh water provided a tranquil, safe and productive location for the establishment of the Cistercian Abbey. Magnesian Limestone and Carboniferous sandstone were key materials in the building of the Abbey with other resources being brought in from further afield. The later development of the Aislabies designed landscape is strongly influenced by the natural landforms and flow of the River Skell, and today the estate’s habitats and species are influenced by the underlying contrasts between Magnesian Limestone, sandstone and extensive glacial tills.

This report explores these themes and the connections with geodiversity and considers the opportunities for linking geodiversity into our understanding of the site, how it is presented and managed.

Appendix 9 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 127 Geodiversity of Studley Royal and Fountains Abbey World Heritage Site

Age Description Some links and connections Management

Bedrock Permian The Permian Magnesian Limestone was deposited Garden and parkland The most substantial Magnesian Limestone exposures are approximately 255 million years ago, in a shallow sea known found in the Seven Bridges Valley. Here there is concern 255 mya as the Zechstein, which encompassed the present day North The Permian Magnesian Limestone has had a strong about collapse of some of the sections, however, this Sea Basin and covered much of NW Europe. Climatically influence on the character and design of the Studley Royal is not an issue in terms of maintaining the Magnesian similar to the present day Bahamas (and during the Permian landscape. This is most explicit in the Seven Bridges Valley Limestone sections and no management intervention at a similar latitude) the Zechstein Sea was subject to which inspired Aislabie’s Chinese landscape gardens. Here is needed. There is some minor degradation of the periodic exporation and replenishment and on its margins the Magnesian Limestone forms the steep gorge sides and a Limestone sections on the garden slopes beneath the the development of the Permian Zechstein Reef which was series of bridges cross cut across the Skell as it flows down Octagon Tower with blocks rolling onto the path. This the primary source of the lime-rich sediments which today the gorge. Little modification of the underlying landscape is natural degradation and difficult to slow down. A low forms the thick sequence of Magnesian Limestone. was necessary to achieve the desired affect though the retaining wall has been built to catch rolling blocks and river has a 75m long bypass tunnel constructed to avoid it visual inspection of section with occasional removal of Lower Permian Magnesian Limestone (Cadeby Formation) disappearing down a large swallow hole. Some additional precarious blocks (though taking care not to increase crops out on the eastern side of the site with exposures work was undertaken by Aislabie in Seven Bridges Valley to instability) is recommended. visible on the steep slopes and paths to the east of the make the river more serpentine in character and cascades Crescent and Moon Ponds and along the gorge sides of constructed to create torrents. The Valley was known as For completeness it would be useful to undertake a the Seven Bridges valley (Photos 1 & 2). The basal Lower ‘Serpent Valley’ by 1741. more detailed survey and mapping of Lower Magnesian Magnesian Limestone unconformity with the underlying outcrops (within the site and its wider buffer zone). carboniferous, is noted to cross the River Skell near the Natural outcrops of Magnesian Limestone occur on the Moon Ponds at grid ref. 280 686. steep wooded slopes to the east of the Crescent and Moon Examine more fully the vegetation change — sandstone Ponds. The exposures have been incorporated into the vs limestone — can this be picked out and provide an The Lower Magnesian Limestone at Fountains and Studley sides of paths and part inspired the construction of the indication of changing geology where rocks aren’t visible? is typically a cream to grey coloured dolomitic limestone. Serpentine Tunnel which emulates the bedded nature It is thinly bedded and jointed with a blocky appearance. of the limestone in its construction.

There is evidence of contemporary Permian bioturbation Buildings (burrowing), in fallen blocks near the path to the immediate north of the Moon Ponds. The Magnesian Limestone was locally quarried (the nearest significant quarries are at Ripon) and used in the construction of local buildings most notably the Abbey, Fountains Hall & Studley Royal. In the Abbey Magnesian Limestone is used in a variety of ways. It is used as decorative stone as it is relatively easy to carve — it is found forming the more ornate door lintels and posts, inscriptions and statues (Photo 3). Huby’s Tower, constructed around 1500, is built from Magnesian Limestone (Photo 5).

Habitats and wildlife

Thinner soils associated with Magnesian Limestone. Magnesian Limestone grassland flora — for example the Banqueting House lawn.

In the Seven Bridges Valley the opened joints, minor hollows and collapses in the Magnesian Limestone are likely to offer potential bat roosts/potential hibernacula. Also, unstable slopes and associated bare soils and rock may offer a number of potential habitats/substrates for invertebrates.

Industry

Magnesian Limestone quarried locally (within the buffer zone of the World Heritage Site) otherwise sourced from Cadeby Quarry (which was within the ownership of the estate). Lime kilns are present

128 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 9 Carboniferous Approximately 315 million years old the thick Carboniferous Garden and parkland Best exposures of Lower Plompton Grit are in the disused sandstone and gritstones exposed at Fountains and Studley quarry faces to the north of the Abbey. c. 315 mya were deposited by an extensive river and delta system The western part of the site is dominated by underlying flowing from high ground (Askrigg Block) to the north. This Carboniferous sandstones which form the steep river valley These are becoming overgrown, particularly with the was a near equatorial climate in an area that was subjected sides and the high ground to the north. encroachment of ivy from above. Increased vegetation to periodic rise in sea level (reflecting a global change in sea management here would open up these sections and has level and more local disturbance associated with a mountain Buildings a wider link to the quarrying history of the Abbey. building phase known as the Hercynian Orogeny). The Lower Plompton Grit has been widely used in the For completeness it would be useful to undertake a more At Fountains and Studley the Lower Plompton Grit (which construction of the Abbey and associated buildings. detailed survey and mapping of Carboniferous outcrops belongs to the Middle Carboniferous Kinderscoutian Stage) This fine to coarse grained sandstone gives the Abbey its (within the site and its wider buffer zone). forms prominent exposures on either side of the River characteristic red colour. Examining the cut faces of the Skell, to the north and north east of Fountains Abbey and Grit building stone provides a close-up view of the typical Examine more fully the vegetation change — sandstone unconformably beneath the Lower Magnesian Limestone on cross-bedding and the rounded to sub-angular quartz grains vs limestone — can this be picked out and provide an the southern part of the slopes to the east of the Crescent which vary in size from 1-10mm (Photo 6). indication of changing geology where rocks aren’t visible? and Moon Ponds. Most notable is the high quarried cliff to the north of the Abbey which exposes up to 7m of cross- Industry bedded (indicating current direction) fine to coarse grained, pebbly sandstone with a colour variation from yellow to red The Lower Plompton Grit was quarried on site as the main (Photo 4). source of building stone for Fountains Abbey. The vertical faces to the north of the Abbey represent the final quarry The underlying Addlethorpe Grit is inferred to cross the faces and provide evidence of roof lines which were set into Skell valley in the vicinity of Fountains Abbey (at 2717 6821) the quarry face (possibly quarry men dwellings). — it is not clear whether any exposures are visible. Habitats and wildlife Towards the end of the Carboniferous the Hercynian mountain building phase (a consequence of the coming The riverside slopes are dominated by ancient woodland, together of two continents) lead to widespread uplift and predominantly oak, elm and lime. a period dominated by erosion rather than deposition. Relative sea level rise in the Permian lead to the area being inundated and eventually the unconformable deposition of the Permian Magnesian Limestone over the Carboniferous landscape.

Superficial Devensian Much of the higher ground is mantled by Quaternary sands, Dominant influence on soils and subsequent land-use gravels and clays (belonging to the Vale or York Formation). (agriculture) within the wider estate. 18000-14000 years ago These are largely associated with the late Devensian cold phase (the last ‘ice age’) and glacial and periglacial environments from 18000 to 14000 years ago. During this period glacial advance from the Lake District covered the area extending down into Lincolnshire.

On the estate glacial till (boulder clay) dominates the wider Park to the north and northeast with isolated patches of sand and gravel associated with former river terrace deposits. Advance and retreat of ice strongly influenced the course of rivers such as the Nidd, Ure and Swale, diverting them southwards and creating glacial diversion gorges which may in part account for the deepened gorge of the Skell.

Appendix 9 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 129 Landforms Devensian — present There are a number of landforms associated with the Garden and parkland River management is critical to the future of the Devensian and more recent evolution of the landscape. Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal WHS both in terms of and processes The River Skell is the most influential natural element at flooding (risk of increase with environmental change) and Dry valleys — in the deer park ‘The Dale’ forms a northwest- Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal. It has provided a basis silt build-up. southeast dry valley with a deposit of sands and gravels for the original settlement cutting a deep and sheltered overlying glacial till (Photo 7). It’s likely that this formed gorge. It is a source of water for drinking (together with The challenge is to balance maintenance of the site’s during a periglacial environment (similar to modern tundra) local springs) and was used to establish Fountains Mill. It outstanding universal value, reducing levels of siltation, with the ground deeply frozen (and impermeable) and has provided the conditions (and possibly inspiration) for accommodating the likelihood of raised water levels/ allowing the development of a small river. With the onset the construction of the water garden which, in its design, flooding and managing the Skell within its wider of warmer conditions the ground has thawed and become incorporates the widening and deepening of the river catchment (upstream run off from Nidderdale and permeable — no longer supporting surface flow and leaving meander the shape of which is arguably mirrored in the downstream into Ripon). The critical point here is the dry valley. design of the Crescent and Moon Ponds. The limestone that management decisions should be taken with an gorge it cuts has provided the backdrop for the ‘Chinese’ understanding, and in the context of, the estate’s River Skell valley and Seven Bridges Valley — the Skell forms Seven Bridges Valley. geodiversity, in particular the functioning of the Skell and a relatively steep sided meander which is likely to reflect its catchment. both glacial diversion of the Skell to a new course during the Since the establishment of the mill and the growth of the Devensian (Photo 8), a significantly larger river fed by glacial Abbey the course of the Skell has been controlled and Undertake a survey of landforms within the site and its melt water and continued post glacial deepening of the river canalised. Whilst there was an understanding of the need to wider buffer zone. as a consequence of local uplift. The Seven Bridges Valley alleviate flooding in the design of the garden, the controlled gorge has a similar origin. A steep sided limestone gorge flow of the river restricts the ability to dissipate energy Consider the development of a soil management plan has been formed with swallow holes down which the Skell during floods and risks both damage to the World Heritage conserving the characteristic soil profiles of the estate. flows to re-emerge near to Ripon. Minor faulting, jointing Site and flooding. and a number of collapsed hollows are visible in the gorge sections. Also notable is the bridged ‘Dale’ dry valley in the deer park and view point provided by the glacial How Hill to the south. The Skell drains from Nidderdale to the west and flows via Ripon into the Ure. Run-off and management of the The Ice Houses — the ice houses (located to the north of the drainage has a strong influence on the rate of silting at Seven Bridges Valley) have been constructed on an area of Fountains and control of flooding through Fountains Abbey high ground in the glacial till above the water table avoiding and Studley Royal and into Ripon. the risk of water flow through the ice houses.

How Hill — within the wider landscape of the World Heritage Industry Site How Hill to the south is interpreted as a moraine- like glacial mound — a deposit of glacial gravel left by a The Skell powered the mill which has been central to the retreating glacier. subsistence and income of the Abbey.

Springs and flushes — natural springs and flushes on the estate are likely to be linked to Quaternary sands and gravels overlying glacial till.

Soils — there are a variety of soils within the estate reflecting its history of cultivation and in many areas more minimal intervention. A separate soil survey has been undertaken identifying 4 soil types and considering the condition and soils erosion within the estate.

130 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 9 Geology from Nidderdale Marble Nidderdale Marble is a dark crinoidal early Carboniferous Develop a short guide or information notes for volunteers limestone used as a decorative stone for pillars within the to the fabric of the buildings of the estate. further afield Early Carboniferous Abbey Church (Photo 6). It was also carved to make the large marble stoup, formerly located in the Cloister and now Explore whether there any other decorative stones on display in the Mill. Fountains Hall also has examples of associated with the Abbey perhaps sourced from other decorative Nidderdale Marble. Cistercian monasteries?

The marble was quarried at Blayshaw Quarry near Lofthouse in Nidderdale and its use is thought to be restricted to Fountains Abbey and Hall (though it is speculated that the steps at St George’s Chapel, Windsor, may be Nidderdale Marble).

Now exposed to the elements the Nidderdale Marble columns are heavily weathered.

Imported materials within Westmorland Slate — main roof material, an Ordovician These materials were available during the early construction Fountains Abbey, garden (450-400 million years old) volcanic ash (Borrowdale of the Abbey. They demonstrate the use of more local and park Volcanic Group) from Cumbria. Widely used as a green resources from Nidderdale for example but also the wealth tinged slate. and reach of the Abbey estate and its ability to bring slates in from Cumbria. York stone — Upper Carboniferous river-lain sandstone used for flooring flagstones within the Abbey.

Hackfall tufa — used in the construction of the grotto and sourced from Hackfall Wood in Nidderdale. Deposited by modern springs saturated in calcium carbonate.

Bricks and tiles — bricks and tiles mainly used for flooring (eg medieval church), bricks also seen in Aislabie’s Kitchen. Probably made from either local Carboniferous mudstones or glacial till.

Metal — evidence of lead smelting and iron working (remains of slag) at Kitchen Bank. Lead likely to have been sourced from Nidderdale and used for roofing and stained glass leading. Stained glass (utilising sand and wood ash) is likely to have been imported from Northern France.

St Mary’s Church This late 19th century medieval gothic church contains an There is a striking and visual geological story to be told here This is an underplayed geological asset and warrants its unprecedented diversity of widely sourced building and that connects across Europe and to the ancient world. This own geological guide. decorative stone. is also an illustration of the changing nature and accessibility (to the wealthy anyway) of global building stone which The exterior walls (Photo 9) are constructed from Catraig didn’t exist when the Abbey was constructed. Stone (Upper Follifoot Grit) — a Carboniferous sandstone from the nearby Spa Gill Wood, the roof is made from Lake District green slates from the Borrowdale Volcanic Group and the finely carved porch of Lower Magnesian Limestone from the nearby Morcar Quarry (Photo 10).

Internally stone is sourced from across Europe, North Africa and the USA (the font is made from Tennessee Marble) (Photo 11). Around 20 different decorative stones are used and include a full range of sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic rocks with colours including cream, black, white, red, green, orange and purple. A number of the marbles are sourced from quarries first exploited by ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman civilisations.

Appendix 9 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 131 Next steps/recommendations Develop a simple management plan for the site’s geodiversity, this could include: — Some vegetation and stability management

— Survey of the link between vegetation and underlying geology

— More detailed geological survey within the site and buffer zone

— Identifying sources of building stone for repairs

— Develop a soil conservation and management plan

Develop a strategy for integrating geology into the way the story of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal is told and presented. The influence of water, the use of raw materials and the visibility of geology in the landscape and its influence on design are possible broad themes. Provide training for volunteers and develop information notes for volunteers.

Develop a geological guide for St Mary’s Church (based on unpublished notes see below).

Establish links with local geology groups — recruit new volunteers. The Leeds Geological Association occasionally includes Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal within its field visit programme. The West Yorkshire Geology Trust is a very active local geoconservation group.

Explore more fully the link between Fountains’ archaeology (including industrial ) and geodiversity.

Explore potential links with other locations (particularly in Trust ownership) in the Region specifically connecting with geodiversity (eg the Carboniferous sandstone Tors of nearby Brimham Rocks).

Explore links with other World Heritage Sites within the Trust’s care (particularly cultural) encouraging integration of geodiversity as part of the ‘fabric’ of World Heritage — use Fountains as an example. Extend this to other World Heritage Sites and the story they tell. For example, Durham Cathedral and Castle and Creswell Crags (on the WHS Tentative List) are both located and associated with late Pleistocene cut river valleys/gorges: the incised meander and peninsular of Durham and the Magnesian Limestone Gorge of Creswell Crags to the south.

Link to the new Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal World Heritage Management Plan (2015-2021) — these recommendations are particularly relevant to:

Theme 2, Objectives J1 and J2

Theme 2, Objective L

Theme 3, Objectives N, O & P

Theme 4, Objective Q

Further reading British Geological Survey, Harrogate Sheet 62 Blacker, J.G. & Mitchell, M., 1998. The use of Nidderdale Marble and other crinoidal limestones in Fountains Abbey, N. Yorks. 28pp

Cooper, A.H., & Burgess, I.C, 1993. Geology of the country around Harrogate. Memoir for 1:50 000 geological sheet 62 (England and Wales.

Hilary Taylor Associates, 2009. Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Soil Assessment, AMEC Earth and Environmental Report

Murray Mitchell, 2005. The building and decorative stones of St Mary’s Church, Studley Royal (unpublished notes for volunteers and staff)

132 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 9 Photographs

Permian

Photographs 1 & 2: Lower Magnesian Limestone (Cadeby Formation) exposed in Seven Bridges Vallley

Photograph 3: Weathered carved door Magnesian Limestone lintel and inscription at base of Huby’s Tower 1

2 3

Carboniferous

Photograph 4: Carboniferous sandstone (Lower Plompton Grit) exposed to the north of the Abbey ruins.

Photograph 5: Fountains Abbey ruins built from Carboniferous sandstone, note yellow Magnesian Limestone of Huby’s Tower

Photograph 6: Weathered column 4 5 6 of Carboniferous Nidderdale crinoidal limestone

Appendix 9 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 133 Devensian — landforms

Photograph 7: The Dale dry valley in the Deer Park

Photograph 8: ‘Surprise View’ showing the incised and modified meander of the River Skell

7 8

St Mary’s Church

Photograph 9: St Mary’s Chuch built from Carboniferous Catraig Stone with finely carved Lower Magnesian Limestone porch (detail Photograph 10)

Photograph 11: Interior decorative stone sourced from Europe, North Africa and USA. Ripon Tomb: figures White Carrara

Marble from Italy, columns and slab Verde 10 Antico, a serpentinite breccia from Greece, chest alabaster from Notting-Derby area.

9 11

134 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 9 Appendix 10: Landscape Character Assessments

Natural England’s Character Area Historic Landscape Character Wider Setting is necessary to confirm this. There are also Assessment Assessment for North Yorkshire parts of ancient semi-natural woodland The WHS Buffer Zone encompasses (possibly pre 1600) and modern improved Natural England’s Character Area In 2010, North Yorkshire County Council areas characterised by woodland (9%), fields defined by regular dry stone walls Assessment locates the site in the Pennine produced a Historic Landscape Character enclosed land (59%), designed landscape (before this was a highly complex area Dales Fringe. The key characteristics of Assessment for the North Yorkshire, York (28%), recreational landscape (<1%) and of piecemeal enclosure). this area are: side slope of Dales uplands, and the Lower Tees Valley. This project settlement (4%) ranging in date from the predominantly sloping down to east, aimed to give a better understanding 16th century to the modern period within The north-western tip of a singular with locally varied topography formed of the historic dimension of the current 65 Historic Landscape Character Areas. Recreational Landscape (yellow) by significant river valleys running from landscape. The colours referred to below containing a horse racing course directly west to east. It is a transitional landscape, relate to the online historic character A large proportion of the buffer zone is northeast of Whitcliffe is noted within the between the upland, predominantly mapping at http://www.northyorks.gov.uk/ 39 Enclosed Land (light green), which area, and dates to the 20th century. The grassland, landscape to the west and article/25492. comprises modern improved fields, sixteen areas of Woodland (dark green) arable land to the east with a variation in piecemeal enclosure, planned enclosures within the buffer zone ranges in date from enclosure patterns arising from different Studley Park and a large scale parliamentary enclosure pre-16th century to the modern period and historic periods — small scale irregular ranging in dates from the 16th to 19th comprises mixed, coniferous, and broad- The Historic Landscape Character area of field patterns, often of medieval origins, centuries. Key features and associated leafed plantation, and ancient semi-natural Studley Park, comprising a large complex close to villages and elsewhere, larger monuments include hedgerows, evidence woodland (restocked) with key features of ornamental parkland associated with scale enclosures, sometimes creating very of Neolithic activity, enclosures, trackways, such as post-medieval plantations (1600- the Studley Royal estate, encompasses an strong patterns; transitions in types of field ring ditches, enclosure systems, henges, 1850AD). The six Designed Landscapes area categorized as a Designed Landscape enclosure from dry stone walls in the west round barrows, chapels and burials, ridge (blue) within the buffer zone are defined ranging in date from the 16th to the 18th to hedges at lower elevations in the east; and furrow, alms-houses, a pit alignment, by ornamental and unidentified parkland, a centuries. It was privately commissioned moderate density of small villages and an aircraft crash site, notable bridges, country estate and a public park ranging in with lakes, vistas, and pleasure grounds. large farmsteads linked by a network of a post-medieval quarry and linear and dates from the Post-medieval period to the The area includes the Cistercian Fountains minor roads; millstone grit predominantly curvilinear features. Significant sites 20th century. Monuments associated with Abbey, and within the grounds also used for buildings and walling, mingling within the area also include a medieval the designated landscapes include Sharrow exists a deer park. Key features and with Magnesian Limestone to the east; grange associated with Fountains Abbey, Hall, Lister Farm, Park House deer park, associated sites include Ice Houses, Hall well wooded character with wooded valley Markenfield Hall moated medieval fortified Ripon Public Park and Sawley Hall. Key site, The Temple of Piety, The Temple of slopes, small woodlands, plantations and house, Whitcliffe Hall, Plumpton Hall, features include views and vistas, pools, Fame, The Octagon Tower, the Quebec hedgerow trees and generally tranquil Spa Ghyll (Farm, deserted settlement formal gardens, plantations, associated Monument, the Rustic and Galand bridges, and undeveloped but with several notable and cup marked stone), a possible deer structures, and sun pavilions. The Banqueting House, Ripon and market towns. park associated with Park House (1600- Mackershaw Gates and The Obelisk. 1750AD), Hog Hall and Lacon Hall. Some of the areas have indications of their being a designed landscape, but further research

Appendix 10 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 135 There are also four Settlements (red) Skell and Skell corridor. This landscape has is especially important in terms of the Borough Council as Supplementary within the area, comprising the two many features of historic interest, including wooded backdrop and the continuous Planning Document ‘Guidelines on planned estates of Sharow and Ripon Fountains Park and Monk Wall; large replanting of parkland and avenue trees Equestrian Development in Nidderdale (20th century), the estate village of Studley woodland blocks and parkland remnants; over time. Lack of variation among the AONB (2007)’. Roger (1540AD to Post-medieval), and the individual trees scattered along field individual parkland and avenue trees Historic Town Core of Ripon (medieval/ boundaries; dense woodland along the may lead to loss of character should — The contrast between the 18th century Post-medieval) including a market place river and intensive land management. trees die out together over a short manicured and designed landscape with and burgage plot arrangement, minster timescale; the pastoral upland; the remote qualities and precinct of medieval date. Key The Harrogate District Landscape of the dales and the productive farmland features include crofts and housing with Character Assessment 2004 (HDLCA) — Also to consider the ‘borrowed views of the Vale of York should be preserved. refers to the wider setting of the estate of Ripon Cathedral, Lindrick Avenue private space defined by front and back The neighbouring character areas set out gardens with no discernible public space. and these are some of the issues relevant and farmed land around How Hill; to the WHS site: in the HDLCA are set out below with the Associated monuments include prehistoric — Changes to the character of the key characteristics given: findspots, an early medieval monastery, — Loss of trees and woodland cover would boundary may impact upon the Ripon Minster and Close, St Anne’s Chapel, change the distinctive character of the surrounding landscape; Area 30 Vale Fringe south a hospital, Old Deanery (with associated setting and may affect the significance of of River Skell and Skell Corridor human remains), Ripon Church, Thorpe the main vistas. Conversely the increase — Discourage development that will Prebend House, possible site of Bedern in woodland cover could reduce impacts compromise the parkland setting, Characteristics: College, Stanwick Prebend House, Rye and in some cases lead to lost vistas; in particular recreation facilities and Mill, a Mill race, cobbled surfaces, sand holiday accommodation should respect “The area includes the Tower at How Hill... pits, and numerous medieval and post- — Increased demand for access may the undisturbed rural landscape around The river corridor is densely wooded as medieval features. compromise the parkland setting and the estate. Where proposals would is the rest of the landscape with large historic design, for instance access impact upon the setting they should woodland blocks… as well as individual Harrogate District Council’s Landscape through Studley is eroding character be discouraged, especially where trees scattered along field boundaries… Character Assessment of the village; proposals may affect the quiet lanes, Woodland and tree cover is so dense that it encloses the landscape channelling Harrogate District Council’s Landscape the vernacular qualities of farmsteads — Particularly important is the and framing views…Land use is mainly Character Assessment does not include and the prevailing agricultural uses; maintenance and reinstatement of improved grassland with woodland the WHS as it is a Registered Historic Park the park boundaries. This should be — The key approaches should be blocks and shelterbelts associated with… and Garden. The site is however flanked examined to ensure contrasts between recognised e.g. deer park wall, the Fountains Abbey”. by the following character areas: boundary treatments draw out the hedges and Studley Roger; Aims: To the north, east and west is Area 44, original designed intentions, especially where enclosure is characteristic — Support initiatives to improve Aldfield to Studley Vale Fringe Farmland. ­— Protect and enhance woodland and tree and conversely where openness sustainable public access especially This is moderate in scale, with gently the cycle and public footpath network; cover across the area. undulating flat landscape. There are large is an important factor; fields with individual trees in fields and — The park and garden should not only — Changes in land use can have an adverse hedgerows, and veteran trees and village rely on the surrounding areas to give the affect including grazing regimes, earthworks at Aldfield, reflecting the site its universal significance but changes equestrian activities and changes influence which Fountains Abbey had on to the character of the estate may to arable fields from pastures. Any the landscapes beyond the boundary of impact especially where outside areas proposals should follow guidance set out the WHS. To the south, including How rely on the garden as backdrop. This in the guidelines adopted by Harrogate Hill is Area 30, Vale Fringe south of River

136 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 10 Area 44 Aldfield to Studley Vale This creates an intimate setting for Aims: parish boundaries. Fringe Farmland riverside activities and a strong network of public footpaths makes this part of the — Conserve historic features and patterns — Identify hedges considered important Characteristics: area accessible and provides important that remain in the landscape. under the Hedgerow Regulations and links into Ripon and towards Fountains develop a hedgerow register for the It is moderate in scale with gently — Survey hedgerows to assess importance Character Area. Abbey and Studley Royal in the west. and set up hedgerow register. undulating to flat landform. Fields The woodland also serves to maintain a are large. Individual trees in fields and — Farm diversification enterprises need separation between the World Heritage — Encourage planting of gaps in existing to consider landscape character where hedgerows are typical…visually these link Site and Ripon. Mixed land use of grass hedgerows and planting of new the character area with the parkland of change of use and land management fields and recreational open space with hedgerow trees. is anticipated. the World Heritage Site. Veteran trees and facilities, allotments and gardens, grade village earthworks at Aldfield reflect the 3 agricultural land. — Resist highly visible locations for telecom — Research into the historic and influence which Fountains Abbey had on masts and require an assessment of the archaeological elements of this area the landscapes immediately beyond the Aims: impact of proposals as part of a planning would improve understanding of the boundary of this World Heritage Site…This application. origins of landscape pattern. well treed character area is very important — Tourism facilities should be low key to the setting of the World Heritage Site avoiding prominent locations — New tree planting should be appropriate — Promote tree and woodland and serves to maintain its separation from to the area (see Harrogate Council’s management to secure long term future — Promote appropriate woodland and tree Landscape Design Guide: LDG 8.1.3 Ripon. Framed views of Ripon Cathedral management along the river corridor. of tree cover and maintain some of the and an important vista from the obelisk — supplementary guidance to the diversity in the area. at St Mary’s Church in Studley Royal to — Encourage the retention and Harrogate District local plan (2001) Ripon Cathedral. enhancement of existing agricultural/ — Encourage native tree and woodland parkland character between Ripon and Area 47 Bishop Monkton Moor planting to respect the landscape Aims: the World Heritage Site.” and Ingerthorpe Moor Farmland pattern and create links between existing blocks of trees that are currently isolated — Encourage the retention and Characteristics: in the arable landscape. enhancement of existing agricultural/ Area 46 South Ripon Farmland parkland character between Ripon and Characteristics: “Is large scale and open with extensive — Improve the integration of large-scale the World Heritage Site. views over a uniform arable landscape. buildings in the landscape. Mitigation “The landscape is reasonably well wooded Woodland is sparse as are individual measures will be required, where — New facilities should relate to existing with clumps and individual trees creating trees along boundaries...Field boundaries development is allowed to integrate attractions rather than create new ones dispersed views. The landscape is balanced are severely fragmented, replaced with proposals with the surrounding and simple comprising large, agricultural fences or have disappeared altogether. landscape. Area 45 West Ripon Rivers Laver fields scattered with individual farmsteads Occasional wavy hedgerows follow parish and Skell Confluence and the occasional red brick and tile field boundaries and are important. Ripon More information on the landscape barn. Agricultural land managed for both Rowels Bridlepath and a few other public Characteristics: character can be found in the Natural livestock and cereal crop production. Field footpaths pass through the area but England National Character Areas, “The area…abuts the western edge of pattern in the area suggests early enclosure generally the access network is poor. the North Yorkshire County Council but much of the pattern has been lost due Ripon with a diverse land use providing Aims: Historic Landscape Characterisation recreational opportunities for local to the amalgamation of fields. Project and the Harrogate Borough communities and tourism. The river — Encourage reinstatement of hedgerows Council Landscape Character corridors are shrouded in dense woodland. particularly along roadsides and historic Assessment.

Appendix 10 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 137 Fountains Hall

138 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Appendix 10