Item 2 Appendix National Park Authority Meeting 21 March 2012

Northumberland National Park Management Plan Draft Annual Action Plan 2012/13 National Park Management Plan Annual Action Plan 2012/13

Introduction

The National Park Management Plan – Inspiring Landscapes, Thriving Communities sets out a long term vision, outcomes and objectives to guide the future of Northumberland National Park to 2014. The National Park Management Plan was developed with a wide range of positive, local people, businesses and stakeholder groups and enjoys a high level of ownership. The achievement of the objectives set out in the Management Plan will require the commitment and efforts not only of the National Park Authority, but of a wide range of partners and stakeholders.

This Annual Action Plan sets out the detailed actions of the National Park Authority and its partners to deliver the objectives of the Management Plan during the second year to 31 March 2013. It has been prepared by the Northumberland National Park Management Plan Partnership, comprising: Natural , English Heritage, Forestry Commission, Defence Infrastructure Organisation, Northumberland Tourism Limited, Hadrian’s Wall Heritage Ltd, Northumberland National Park and County Joint Local Access Forum, Northumberland County Council, West Newton Estates (representing Estate interests) and the Environment Agency. In addition a number of other partners have contributed to the development of this Action Plan including: Northumbria Police, Northumberland Wildlife Trust, Warmzone, Energy Saving Trust and Northwoods.

In addition to the specific actions, this Action Plan contains indicators and associated targets to enable an assessment of progress of delivering the vision and outcomes. The Management Plan Partnership will openly and regularly report on progress in delivery of the Management Plan and the National Park Authority website will be updated half yearly to include information on the achievement of actions and other key monitoring information www.northumberlandnationalpark.org.uk/npmanagementplan.htm. The State of the Park report provides an annual update on progress.

Comments on this Annual Action Plan are welcomed together with any suggestions on how the actions contained within it may be supported. Comments and enquiries should be directed to the Forward Planning Team at Northumberland National Park Authority on 01434 611577 or by email to [email protected].

Key DIO Defence Infrastructure Organisation CPRE Campaign to Protect Rural England EA Environment Agency EH English Heritage EST Energy Saving Trust FC Forestry Commission HLS Higher Level Stewardship HWH Hadrian’s Wall Heritage Ltd JLAF Joint Local Access Forum NCC Northumberland County Council NCL North Country Leisure NE Natural England NNPA Northumberland National Park NP Northumbria Police NT* Northumberland Tourism Authority NW Northwoods NWT Northumberland Wildlife Trust ONE One North East SSSI Site of Special Scientific Interest UELS Uplands Entry Level Stewardship WN West Newton Estate *those outcomes/ actions identified to be led by Northumberland Tourism are to be confirmed with the new Visitor Economy Partnership 1 Item 2 National Park Authority Meeting 21 March 2012 National Park Management Plan Annual Action Plan 2012/13

Welcoming Park

Management Plan Outcome Outcome Lead Northumberland Tourism 1.1 People who come to the National Park will feel they have had an exceptional experience in relating to the landscape and in finding peace, tranquillity and NNPA Lead Andrew Miller adventure and will have enjoyed their visit Objective Action Action Timescale Indicators of Success Lead 1.1.1 To maintain and Implement actions to enhance the visitor NNPA March improve levels of visitor welcome in Elsdon, Falstone, and Ingram 2013 satisfaction Develop enhanced visitor information on the NNPA December NNPA website and develop mobile phone 2012 applications at Elsdon and Falstone. 1.1.2 To achieve a high Identify opportunities to provide interpretation NE March standard and broad range in work as part of at least two HLS schemes within 2013 facilities, information and the National Park Overall level of visitor satisfaction services within the National If successful with Heritage Lottery Fund Round NNPA March Target: 75% of visitors will have Park 1 application for the Sill Project, deliver 2013 a very good experience by March development phase. Raise awareness of the 2013. bid regionally and identify advocates from the Levels of satisfaction with NNPA local community and partner organisations and visitor services - National Park secure in-principle match funding commitments. Centres, events, education and Installation of composting toilet by Wark Parish FC December website – Target: 80% by March Council at Warksburn picnic site at Stonehaugh 2012 2013. Update way marking on associated trails in FC March Visitor satisfaction at non NNPA partnership with the local community 2013 properties and sites within the Develop National Park Visitor Guide, including NNPA January National Park Target: To be set online version on prominent websites. 40,000 2013 once baseline identified copies printed and distributed regionally to key attractions such as the Great North Museum, Alnwick Garden and Bamburgh Castle. Re print 5,000 Otterburn Ranges leaflets DIO April 2012 Develop a programme for the renewal of DIO December interpretation on the Otterburn Ranges 2012

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Develop interpretation boards as part of building WN March refurbishment at West Newton Estate 2013 Develop opportunities for the promotion of NT March sustainable tourism businesses through the ‘Our 2013 Land Initiative’ Survey the condition of 15% of the Public Rights NNPA March of Way network to inform the preparation of an 2013 annual maintenance/improvement programme by: Engaging 10 volunteers in surveying 10% of the Public Rights of Way network; and Complete national benchmarking surveys on 5% of the Public Rights of Way network. Increase current provision of NNP Information NNPA March Points from 9 to 12 targeting the northern area 2013 of the National Park

Management Plan Outcome Outcome Lead Northumberland National Park 1.2 The National Park will be accessible to a wider and more diverse audience Authority including people who live in, work in and visit the National Park Derek Proudlock Objective Action Action Timescales Indicators of Success Lead 1.2.1 To increase visits to Secure ‘Dark Sky Discover Site’ status for 3 NNPA March 2013 Northumberland National further National Park sites Park by those living within Raise awareness to urban and regional NNPA December the region by 10% from the audiences by attending urban/ urban fringe 2012 2009 baseline by March events including – 2 Great North Museum, Number of visits to the National 2014 County Show, Hexham Children Centre, Picnic in Park from within . Target: 55% by Sele Park and the Mela. 2013/14. Develop new links with urban and urban fringe NNPA March 2013 communities to develop a minimum of 4 projects through Action Area working with partners such as NE Scouts and Fairbridge Drake. 1.2.2 To increase visits from Work with the Campaign for National Parks to NNPA March 2012 Wider diversity of visitors. 3 Item 2 National Park Authority Meeting 21 March 2012 National Park Management Plan Annual Action Plan 2012/13 currently under-represented develop the Mosaic Youth Project which aims to Target: By 2013/14 11% of groups by 10% by 2014 build links between National Parks and young visitors will be non white British; people. If successful in acquiring funding 10% will have a disability, develop NNP outcomes by May and deliver first 367,500 will be young phase of the project by March 2012. Work with existing walk schemes to deliver 15 NNPA October walk events within the National Park 2012 Encourage volunteering by Mosaic Champions, NNPA June 2012 support at 1 outreach event at the Newcastle Mela, 1 article in Curlew, and 3 group visits. Work in partnership with the Disabled Ramblers NNPA March 2013 Association to identify potential accessible routes and begin to plan an event for summer 2012 1.2.3 To improve Enhance NNP and NNPA digital media presence NNPA March 2013 information and (Facebook, YouTube, etc.) particularly for young infrastructure with more people. sites in the National Park Complete the management plan for Walltown; NNPA March 2013 accessible to all and deliver first phase The % of sites which are Deliver schedules of work to improve accessibility NNPA March 2013 accessible to all. Target: 6 on the most heavily used rights of way. Deliver routes and 12 Public Rights of improvement works on 10 well used routes and Way will be improved in 2012/13 as part of this replace 10 stiles with gates to improve accessibility. Create a fully accessible route at Walltown and upgrade the riverside route at Falstone.

Management Plan Outcome Outcome Lead Northumberland National Park 1.3 A more diverse range of learning opportunities will be available to help Authority people understand, value and contribute to conserving, enhancing and enjoying Derek Proudlock the National Park’s distinctive natural and cultural qualities Objective Action Action Timescales Indicators of Success Lead 1.3.1 To use the resource of Develop 2 packs of educational material based NNPA June 2012 Number of 5-19 year olds the National Park to provide on sites in the National Park (Walltown and

4 Item 2 National Park Authority Meeting 21 March 2012 National Park Management Plan Annual Action Plan 2012/13 relevant and increased Breamish Valley) in partnership with 2 private or engaged annually in access to learning and community enterprises (YHA and Bellingham educational activities Target: educational opportunities for Heritage Centre) 300 per annum young people (primary, Deliver 20 Learning Outside the Classroom NNPA March 2013 secondary, higher and activities prioritising National Park Schools further education) Programme primary and middle schools Rangers to deliver 10 Inside the Classroom NNPA March 2013 environmental activities to engage National Park Schools Programme primary school children with the natural environment Deliver an outreach programme to at least 5 local NNPA March 2013 schools to promote the historic environment and archaeological heritage linked to the National Park Schools Programme Continue development and delivery of National NNPA March 2013 Park Schools Model working closely with the 26 schools in and around the National Park and the high schools they feed into. Support 6 of these to achieve eco school status Use access element of HLS to facilitate visits WN March 2013 from schools to illiterate farming as it was in the past and the contrast with modern practices Development of Natural Connections - deliver NE first phase of training once funding is secured 1.3.2 To use the resource of Develop conservation skills career pathways with NNPA March 2013 the National Park to provide local high schools linked to the John Muir Award relevant and increased and deliver a programme of vocational field skills Number of training opportunities access to vocational skills training for 8 students leading to the Discovery offered Target: 20 training and training opportunities and Explorer award. opportunities offered. 90% of Engage young people with the work in protected NNPA March 2013 graduated trainees in landscapes by providing a minimum of 10 School employment/ education and University work placements and student annually bursaries across the Authorities four departments Review the wider funding environment for skills NNPA December

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and training initiatives with partners and funders. 2012 Including scoping options with Northumberland College – Kirkley Hall Campus and DIO to provide opportunities at Carlcroft for a follow up to the Upland Farming Traineeship. 1.3.3 To enhance the use of Build upon the existing Young Volunteer initiative NNPA March 2013 Number of young volunteers the National Park as a to enable 10 young people to be regularly engaged in the work of the resource to provide relevant participating as Youth Volunteers in the NNPA Authority Target: 20 annually. 5 and increased opportunities volunteer service; community volunteer projects for adults and young people Recruit and train 10 volunteers to deliver a wide NNPA March 2013 within the National Park. to become involved in range of events for all Number of National Park participatory learning Deliver 5 community volunteer projects, including NNPA September residents giving unpaid help to activities and volunteering a volunteer-led Archaeology and Historic 2012 clubs or organisations within Environment Festival centred on Kirknewton their community Target: 68% by 2013 1.3.4 To ensure Support the delivery of 40 volunteer events NNPA March 2013 understanding of the special attracting 200 participants qualities amongst existing Support the archive group to update the FC/ EH March 2013 visitors Sidwood Bastle trail interpretation by March 2013, linking it to surround bastles, and Greenhaugh with public launch in July 2012 Understanding scores Target: Develop on and off-site interpretation for the NNPA/ June 2012 Visitor centres (90%); Website Yeavering landscape to be installed in the newly EH (85%); Educational Activities conserved Old Palace building, and update (80%); Events (85%) by online information 2012/13 Link people with bio-diversity through NNPA July 2012 development of 3 new interpretation projects with new and existing partners, to include development of a self guided trail to give people the opportunity to see wild goats in the Cheviots

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Distinctive Place

Management Plan Outcome Outcome Lead Northumberland National Park 2.1 A distinctive place that will maintain a sense of inspiration and tranquillity Authority Head of PCC Objective Action Action Timescales Indicators of Success Lead Apply for Dark Sky Park status for Kielder Water FC/ August and Forest Park, with the assistance of Kielder NNPA 2012 Northumberland National Park 2.1.1 To protect and Water and Forest Park Development Trust, will maintain its status as being enhance tranquillity levels Nastro, KOAS, starcamp and local community. the most tranquil part of as the highest in England Alongside this secure International Dark Sky England Reserve accreditation for the National Park 2.1.2 To conserve and Build on early engagement work and develop a NNPA December enhance the sense of place draft Landscape Strategy by June 2012, with 2012 of each of the distinct areas further engagement during July and August, with To be developed as part of the of the National Park in line adoption by December 2012 landscape strategy with the objectives identified for each area The outcomes and objectives of the Management NCC March 2013 Plan are fully embedded into the emerging Local Development Framework for Northumberland County Council. Issues and Options consultation 2.1.3 To ensure that all new expected May 2012. development within or on Prepare a National Park Lighting Management NNPA March 2013 Decisions on major planning the fringe of the National Plan to minimise light pollution applications on the edge of the Park will conserve or Working with Northern Power Grid, seek to NNPA March 2013 National Park Target: 100% enhance the natural and underground 1000 meters of existing overhead determined in line with NNPA cultural qualities of the electricity supply cable within priority landscape response National Park character areas across the NNP but focusing on the Hadrian’s Wall WHS and key settlements such as Elsdon, Falstone and Greehaugh by March 2013. Conclude mapping exercise such that all low voltage overhead electricity lines in 7 Item 2 National Park Authority Meeting 21 March 2012 National Park Management Plan Annual Action Plan 2012/13

NNP are identified and prioritised for future undergrounding opportunities by June 21012.

Work with user groups, partners and local land NNPA March 2013 managers to implement effective recreation plans for the areas of the National Park suffering from 2.1.4 To ensure that visitor inappropriate use particularly in the Cheviots and Areas of National Park suffering and recreational use Hadrian’s Wall area from inappropriate use Target: complements the character Continue to monitor the rights of way network by Northum March 2013 50% decline in number of and capacity of the motorised vehicles. Develop management bria reported incidents in the north locations in which it takes techniques through the NNPA and Northumbria Police/ of the Park by 2013 place Police Land Managers Liaison Group to minimise NNPA damage on sensitive routes. Expand the scope of the group to be National Park wide. The outcomes and objectives of the Management DIO September Plan are fully embedded in the Integrated Rural 2012 Management Plan for the Otterburn Training Area Complete a byelaw review for the Otterburn DIO September Training Area 2012 Implement and review the Archaeology and DIO Annually 2.1.5 Ongoing integration of Historic Environment Management Plan for the the Otterburn Ranges to Otterburn Training Area and continue the Monitoring of the Integrated conserve and enhance quinquennial review of heritage assets at risk on Rural Management Plan for the natural and cultural the Otterburn Training Area, developing priority Otterburn Ranges qualities and tranquillity conservation actions Begin to develop the remit of the OTA DIO/ March 2013 Environmental Steering Group to look forward NNPA and demonstrate effective partnership working rather than the current focus on delivering the ‘conditions and undertakings’ arising from the Public Inquiry.

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Management Plan Outcome Outcome Lead Natural England 2.2 The natural qualities and diverse habitats that characterise the changing Nick Brodin landscapes will be safeguarded and enhanced NNPA Lead Head of PCC

Objective Action Action Timescales Indicators of Success Lead 2.2.1 To encourage and Apply for HLF support for outline Water Vole FC June 2012 support land management introduction program in , working practices to deliver with Tyne rivers Trust, Kielder Water and Forest measurable improvements Park Development trust, and Northumberland in the natural environment Wildlife Trust Work with the RSPB to support Protection of Hen FC August harrier Breeding site on the FC estate 2012 Farmed area of the National Carry out bracken control on the FC holding at FC August Park in environmental Harbottle moor 2012 stewardship Target: 50% in Through the Border Uplands partnership develop NE September HLS a programme of works/projects that will improve 2012 Change in areas and the robustness of ecological networks in line with populations of biodiversity the Making Space for Nature report and the importance Target: 98% of Natural Environment White Paper SSSIs will be in favourable/ Review and consolidate datasets for woodland NNPA December improving recovering condition and forestry in the National Park and identify 2012 by 2012/13 opportunities for removing and restructuring New Natural England Targets: conifer plantations that are detrimental to the Maintain 95% of SSSIs in landscape and biodiversity of the National Park. favourable/ recovering condition Protect and enhance 5ha of existing native NNPA March 2013 and 50% of SSSIs in favourable broadleaved woodland condition by 2020 Instigate and support the planting of at least 50ha FC March 2013 of new native woodland within the National Park including 1 juniper site. Survey 20 hay meadows and add seed/plants to NE/ March 2013 at least 5 fields NNPA Prioritise areas and facilitate bracken control on NNPA March 2013

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250ha of ground Complete burning plans for 4 HLS agreements NE March 2013 with SSSIs and BAP moorland habitats, including those on Simonside SAC Section 39 woodland agreements – Continue to NNPA March 2013 engage 10 volunteers to survey 20 sites, complete 5 management statements and undertake maintenance work on 5 sites Complete the required condition assessments NE March 2013 and indicators of success visits for SSSIs Carry out collaborative heather burning on at NNPA March 2013 least 2 sites in the National Park Carry out surveys using volunteers to assess RSPB/ March 2013 Curlew and Ring Ouzel numbers and identify NNPA wader hotspots – survey at least 15 Ring Ouzel sites and undertake Curlew surveys every 10km2 Carry out at least another 5 actions towards NNPA March 2013 revised Biodiversity Action Plan including: removal conifers on mire; survey for waxcaps on Hadrian’s Wall, investigate use of meadows by invertebrates 2.2.2 To enhance locally Map and agree priority areas for new native NNPA March 2013 and regionally important woodland planting, heather moorland restoration geology and habitats to and hay meadow improvement/creation. Area of special habitats with ensure resilience and to Create a network of bumblebee goat willow FC/ March 2013 ‘connectivity’ and resilience of ensure that habitats are habitat around Simonside in Harwood forest NNPA key habitats Target: to be linked Undertake mapping exercise to identify NNPA March 2013 defined as part of priority opportunities for linking habitats within the species and habitat monitoring National Park and areas beyond the National Park boundary through habitat restoration and creation.

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Undertake habitat suitability mapping for black NNPA March 2013 grouse within NNP and adjacent areas. Use this to help prioritise areas for habitat enhancement for this species. Evaluate whether black grouse population supplementation is feasible in NNP. Revise and simplify Habitat and Species action NNPA March 2013 plans creating a vision and map for future work Work with estates in the National Park including NNPA March 2013 Linhope, Lilburn, Northumberland Estates, College Valley Estate, The National Trust, High Green and Hesleyside to ensure land management and HLS schemes take a landscape scale approach and maximise opportunities to link habitats and species across the Park. Through Action Area funds deliver 10 biodiversity NNPA March 2013 and habitat creation projects through the action area approach working in partnership with landowners, farmers and local communities linking delivery with engaging young people through the Young Volunteers Initiative, John Muir and DOE. Projects to include creation of a network of bumblebee willow habitat around Simonside in Harwood forest and other suitable locations, development of grass verge habitats, scrub creation including juniper and willow and pond and wetland reation. See also actions for objectives 3.1.1 and 3.1.2

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Management Plan Outcome Outcome Lead English Heritage 2.3 The rich historic environment and archaeological heritage will be Alan Hunter understood, valued and cared for NNPA Lead Head of PCC

Objective Action Action Timescales Indicators of Success Lead 2.3.1 To protect the historic Work with the local community to complete the NNPA/ September environment and character appraisal and management plan for the NCC 2012 archaeological sites within Kirknewton Conservation Area. the National Park Completion of consolidation works on important NE/ December vernacular buildings already prioritised for funding NNPA 2013 through HLS (Yeavering Palace, Shieling at Ewartly Shank and the Grade II Listed Lime Kiln at Low Town) Through the Heritage at Risk project continue the NNPA/ March 2013 Volunteer Scheduled Monument condition survey EH Number, condition and relative and incorporate the results into the National importance of cultural heritage Heritage at Risk Register. Extend the number of features/ buildings Target: volunteers by recruiting at least a further 14 52% of Scheduled Ancient members from local community groups and seek Monuments and 95% of Listed to recruit more young people, delivering 3 Buildings will be at low risk by additional training events March 2013 Target priority heritage assets for conservation EH/ March 2013 based upon the information from the first year of NNPA the Heritage at Risk Project to improve the condition of a further 5 scheduled monuments Continue to deliver the Ingram Farm bracken trial NE March 2013 project which will deliver information on the effectiveness of bracken treatment and the resources required to inform future payment of HLS See DIO actions for 2.1.5 DIO

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Carry out a Quinquennial Review of Listed NNPA/ March 2013 Buildings and update the Buildings at Risk EH register for the National Park, integrating the results of Grade I and II* into the national Heritage at Risk Register. Seek resources to develop and deliver conservation plans for Grade II Buildings at Risk 2.3.2 To develop further If funding bid successful, deliver the Altogether NNPA March 2013 understanding of the Archaeology community archaeology project with cultural heritage of the the North Pennines AONB Partnership to engage Number of volunteer days, National Park local communities within and beyond the National number of placements, level of Park engagement and input to Continue to provide advice and support to NNPA March 2013 community projects existing community archaeology groups including the Coquetdale Community Archaeology Barrowburn Mill project

Management Plan Outcome Outcome Lead Northumberland National Park 2.4 There is a strong and recognisable sense of identity which is born of the Authority deep rooted cultural heritage yet balances this with a vibrant approach to the Derek Proudlock future Objective Action Action Timescales Indicators of Success Lead 2.4.1 To perpetuate the Support 20 park-wide local events and shows NNPA March 2013 vibrant living traditions of through attendance /funding, including the National Park and its agricultural shows, community events, cultural gateway communities as festivals and activity events delivered by partners part of the distinctive and Action Area communities. Number of agricultural shows character of the area Provide support for Alwinton, Elsdon and DIO October and cultural festivals Rochester local shows 2012 supported Target: 20 Provide support for Kirknewton Village Hall Trust WN September Open Garden Event 2012 Continue to provide guidance for communities NCC March 2012 who want to host local events

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A Living Working Landscape

Management Plan Outcome Outcome Lead Natural England 3.1 New and better approaches to sustainable land and water management Nick Brodin have been tested, adopted and embedded NNPA Lead Derek Proudlock

Objective Action Action Timescales Indicators of Success Lead Formulate with staff, external partners, farmers NNPA March 2013 and land managers the Authority’s future approach to facilitating and enabling sustainable land management. Consultation completed by January 2013 and a robust vision for sustainable land management in the National Park agreed by March 2013. Deliver 10 new HLS agreements that maximise NNPA March 2013 the opportunities to safeguard and enhance the special qualities of the National Park. 3.1.1 To encourage and Develop and implement a monitoring framework NE/ NNPA March 2013 support the uptake of better for Higher Level Stewardship to assess the Area of New Native Woodland and more sustainable land success of positive management on 10 sites and created and any losses management practices negotiate and agree any amendments required Target: 50ha planted and which conserve and Review the success of HLS on one farm on the DIO March 2013 10ha fenced enhance the National Otterburn Training Area Park’s distinctive qualities Ensure farms where the CSS expires in NE/ NNPA April 2012. September 2012 are offered the opportunity to apply for HLS where they meet HLS targeting criteria and NNPA priorities. Review Forest Design Plans, Woodland Grant FC March 2013 Scheme Applications and Felling Licence Applications, promoting the planting of native broadleaves where appropriate. Review the MoD long term forest plan, DIO Annually promoting the planting of native woodland where appropriate 14 Item 2 National Park Authority Meeting 21 March 2012 National Park Management Plan Annual Action Plan 2012/13

Work with Catchment Sensitive Farming Project NNPA March 2013 Officers to develop a new project to protect the pristine water quality of the rivers in the National Park by preventing sediment pollution associated with tracks and paths in the NP. Put together an initial proposal by April 2012 for Water Framework Directive funding for work on quantifying erosion with National Park and initially for research and then capital funding for methods of managing erosion on peat soils and preventing sediment movement from tracks. Undertake collaborative controlled burning on at NNPA March 2013 least 2 farms that lack the resources to burn safely on their own Deliver year 2 activities of Phase 2 of the NNPA March 2013 Cheviot Futures Climate Change Adaptation project: Develop a further 10 farm resilience plans across the Cheviot Futures area, including at least 5 holdings within the National Park and Action Areas; Monitor the innovative and pioneering riverbank erosion protection works at Ingram via webcam installation; Work with Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service to develop Bellingham retained fire station as a wildfire centre; Hold at least 3 demonstration days (or promotional events), within the National Park or the NNPA action areas; Continue to work in partnership with Catchment Sensitive Farming on projects: specifically trialling of ground reinforcement products to reduce livestock poaching around

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feeders within the National Park area, and also development of innovative runoff management solutions on a farm within the Cheviot Action Area. Provide input to securing of additional funds for projects within the National Park and Action Areas – such as additional HLS funds, CSF Capital Grants and other appropriate sources, in close partnership with the National Park farming officers. Evaluate 5 sites for feasibility of grant support for NNPA March 2013 covered manure storage, livestock handling facilities and assist farmers to successfully obtain funding for priority capital works , Seek opportunities to work in partnership to EA March 2013 deliver actions to improve the status of Water Framework Directive waterbodies that are less than good ecological status and maintaining those waterbodies of high ecological status 3.1.2 To ensure that all the including developing a joint project with the National Park’s rivers are Catchment Sensitive Farming project and Overall river quality Target: all of the highest quality and Cheviot Futures on Hill tracks by June 2013. achieve ‘good’ status under minimise the flood risk and Improve the water quality of Greenlee Lough by EA/ NE March 2013 Water Framework Directive impacts to communities undertaking a study to determine the reason for and businesses the current status of Greenlee and develop an action plan to improve its status. Throught the Kielder Forest Streams project to FC/ EA/ March 2013 develop an action plan to bring the Kielder TRT Forest streams up to Water Framework Directive ‘Good Ecological Status’.

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Identify priority stretches of watercourses within NNPA March 2013 NNP that require action to improve their ecological and chemical condition and draw up a joint action plan with the Tyne Rivers Trust on the North Tyne, the Northumberland Rivers Trust on the Coquet and the Tweed Forum on the Till catchment.

Management Plan Outcome Outcome Lead Northumberland National Park 3.2 The National Park has made an important contribution to increasing Authority understanding about, and demonstrating the practice of, sustainable Andrew Miller development and responses to climate change

Objective Action Action Timescales Indicators of Success Lead Review with partners the current demand and NNPA March 2013 future for biomass production and use in and Number of land management around the National Park, identifying best businesses with an initiatives practice and looking for possibilities of 3.2.1 To promote and that shows a targeted additional uptake. implement sustainable land reduction in greenhouse gas Carbon sequestration through the FC September management practices emissions Target: To be sustainable production of timber. Establish 2012 which contribute to effective established monitoring system that keeps track of felling carbon sequestration and Condition of bogs within the and planting activity and the implications this storage National Park Target: Target has for carbon sequestration by forests and to be identified following woodlands in NNPA surveying work Identify learning lessons for work at NE March 2013 Wallington on carbon sequestration in soils. 3.2.2 To encourage the Deliver phase 3 of the Upper Coquet micro- NNPA March 2013 Capacity of sources of production of renewable hydro project on 5 farms in the Cheviots renewable energy requiring energy from sources Undertake a feasibility study to determine the NNPA March 2013 planning permission installed compatible with the potential for a community wood fuel heating Target: increase of 100kw National Park’s distinctive project on a large Estate within NNP where qualities wood can be sourced from the Estate.

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3.2.3 To work towards a Review Climate Change Action Plan. NNPA December carbon neutral National 2012 Park See also actions for 3.2.1, 3.2.2 and 4.2.4

Management Plan Outcome Outcome Lead Northumberland Tourism 3.3 There is sustained and economically viable business growth in sectors which sensitively make use of the natural, historical and cultural qualities Objective Action Action Timescales Indicators of Success Lead 3.3.1 To strengthen and Support and advise 20 new and existing NNPA March 2013 diversify the local, regional businesses and look to provide 15 business Increase in farming, tourism, food, crafts and retail micro and national markets for grants through our Action Area funds, SDF businesses that relate either and Leader schemes. enterprises within the National Park using the use of the directly or indirectly to Support and market appropriate partner NNPA March 2013 natural and cultural qualities achieving the National Park events (e.g. Bellingham Blast, NR Cyclone) Target: 5% increase in micro purposes Contribute to the development of the new NCC/ July 2012 businesses by March 2013 Northumberland Visitor Economy Partnership NNPA 3.3.2 To grow the tourism ConFor, NNPA and others to explore the FC March 2013 market in and around the potential for the development of forest based National Park by developing tourism in and around Rothbury. and marketing the Contribute to the implementation of Kielder FC March 2013 experience thereby Big Picture investment plan through Kielder encouraging visitors to stay Water and Forest Park Development Trust longer and spend more on Encourage 10 new and existing busineses to NNPA March 2013 Volume and value of tourism local goods and services develop/promote nature based, including dark sky tourism events/activities Support Outdoors Northumberland NNPA March 2013 (commercial outdoor experience providers) and encourage members to initiate 10 activities in the National Park 3.3.3 To retain, attract and See 1.3.2 develop new and traditional skills to meet the demand of enterprises and business growth in key sectors 18 Item 2 National Park Authority Meeting 21 March 2012 National Park Management Plan Annual Action Plan 2012/13

Thriving Communities

Management Plan Outcome Outcome Lead Northumberland National Park 4.1 The communities in and around the National Park will have a strong Authority connection to, and appreciation of, the National Park and be fully engaged Head of PCC in shaping its future Objective Action Action Timescales Indicators of Success Lead 4.1.1 To increase Support a volunteer-led historic environment NNPA September understanding of the ‘day school’ at the Kirknewton festival as 2012 Residents understanding of the distinctive natural and part of the festival of British archaeology special qualities of the National cultural qualities of the Develop and publish information about NNPA June 2012 Park Target: 90% of residents National Park so that distinctive and visible species and where to understand why communities feel they have see them to help people engage with the Northumberland National Park strong connections to the BAP process and the importance of the is special by 2014 ‘landscapes’ and NNP recognisable sense of identity Develop a Neighbourhood Plan for the North Parish 2014 Tyne with wide community and other Councils stakeholder engagement. With support from NNPA, NCC and other statutory consultees such as English Heritage and Natural 4.1.2 To ensure greater England. levels of community Continue to raise awareness of the NNPA Mach 2013 Residents level of influence in engagement in local opportunities for neighbourhood/ parish decisions affecting the National decision making and action planning and provide support for local Park Target: 30% by March so that people can contribute communities to develop Neighbourhood/ 2014 to the future wellbeing of the Parish Plans within the National Park National Park Development of new area based forums NNPA March 2013 within the National Park Appoint local businesses and residents to NNPA June 2012 assist the Authority in regularly scrutinising the work of the Authority as part of its 19 Item 2 National Park Authority Meeting 21 March 2012 National Park Management Plan Annual Action Plan 2012/13

annual governance timetable. Appoint 3 independent members in June 2012.

Develop a statement of engagement which NNPA September sets out how the National Park Authority 2012 engages, and will continue to engage with local communities.

Management Plan Outcome Outcome Lead Northumberland County Council 4.2 Effective infrastructure (services, facilities, networks etc.) will support Caroline Bruce socially and culturally active communities with a high quality of life and NNPA Lead Head of PCC improved health and wellbeing

Objective Action Action Timescales Indicators of Success Lead Continue to provide and collect information NNPA March 2013 Number of permissions granted on housing needs within the National Park for new dwellings (including the to seek to ensure that new housing number of affordable dwellings) 4.2.1 To ensure a balanced development meets identified needs. Work as defined in Housing Needs range of housing that meets with the Housing Authority and Parish Survey by parish local needs, enabling people Councils to update housing needs NCC planning decisions to take to live and work in and information account of the Housing Need around the National Park Planning policies for the gateway NCC 2014 requirements of the National settlements and adjoining areas allow for Park appropriate development to sustain National Park communities 4.2.2 To ensure the Support the SDF Grants Panel to working NNPA March 2014 retention of rural services more closely with the Northumberland No loss of key village services which keep communities Uplands Leader Local Action Group to Access to broadband Target: thriving and provide better scope a joint delivery process 95% of residents will have a access to a wider range of Provide advice and support to communities NNPA March 2013 speed of at least 2mb by March services and infrastructure through Action Area working by: Providing 2013 through innovative, 40 community grants, and 5 other grants; integrated and sustainable helping groups to develop and directing

20 Item 2 National Park Authority Meeting 21 March 2012 National Park Management Plan Annual Action Plan 2012/13 solutions community groups to potential funding sources, sharing best practice and providing advice and guidance.

Continue to undertake an annual local NNPA June 2012 facilities survey with the results informing decisions on planning applications and other proposals to seek to ensure rural services are retained. Continue to seek opportunities for improved NNPA March 2013 broadband in the National Park by: Supporting the Northumberland Leader Local Action Group to best invest over £200,000 of EU funds to provide reliable entry level broadband into the ‘not spots’ – Dec 2012; Working with partners (including NCC and GreySky Consulting) to provide superfast broadband to key parts of the National Park Rothbury/ Simonside or the North Tyne – by Jan 2013; Sharing intelligence (with and from NCC) to secure adequate funding for superfast broadband to the rural areas of Northumberland; Test innovative solutions for access to broadband in deep rural areas. 4.2.3 To enable an If successful with the LSTF Tranche 2 bid, NCC March 2013 Hadrian’s Wall Bus – usage integrated transport network implement 1st year action plan of the and diversity which meets the needs of National Park Sustainable Travel project Availability of public transport those who live, work and Operation and marketing of the Hadrian’s HWH March 2013 within National Park visit the National Park and Wall Country Bus Service AD122 for 2012 settlements Target: no further offers an attractive loss in service alternative to the car 21 Item 2 National Park Authority Meeting 21 March 2012 National Park Management Plan Annual Action Plan 2012/13

4.2.4 To increase the use of Working with Northumberland Warm Zone, NNPA June 2012 renewable energy by analyse National Park specific datasets to communities in the National get a better understanding of fuel poverty % of residents with Renewable Energy technologies installed Park by 20% by 2014 while and where appropriate promote continuing work on opportunities to mitigate against the causes and energy efficiency measures within their home Target: 20% increasing energy efficiency of fuel poverty. renewable energy installed, Undertake energy efficiency audit of 1 NNPA 80% cavity walls insulated, Estate including farming, forestry and 60% of lofts insulated to domestic buildings 250mm and 60% of homes Facilitate the installation of loft insulation on NNPA March 2013 using energy saving light bulbs an additional 10 farms that have not yet in most rooms by 2014 taken advantage of the NNPA Warm Zone insulation offer.

Management Plan Outcome Outcome Lead Northumberland County Council 4.3 People will have opportunities to work in, live in and contribute to Caroline Bruce resilient communities in and around the National Park NNPA Lead Head of PCC

Objective Action Action Timescales Indicators of Success Lead 4.3.1 There are more young See 4.2.1 Increase of people in the 16-44 adults and people of working age bracket living in the National age living in the National Park Target: 30% by 2014 Park If the Rural Growth Fund Bid for the NCC/ NNPA 2015 4.3.2 There are more creation of enterprise hubs in the rural opportunities and a wider areas of the North East is successful range for employment and support the creation of a cluster of new training in the National Park live-work units in the North Tyne and its gateway settlements See also 3.3.3 4.3.3 Reduce the impact Linked to 3.3.1 and 4.2.2 from commuting out of the Home working levels National Park or its gateway communities to work and

22 Item 2 National Park Authority Meeting 21 March 2012 National Park Management Plan Annual Action Plan 2012/13 encourage even more home working

A Valued Asset

Management Plan Outcome Outcome Lead Northumberland National Park 5.1 The National Park is widely recognised for its environmental, social Authority and economic contribution, particularly to North East England Tony Gates

Objective Action Action Lead Timescales Indicators of Success 5.1.1 To optimise the Expand the relationsips that have been NNPA Enhanced awareness of the potential opportunities for the developed as part of the Sill project with 6 value of Northumberland National National Park to contribute to new partners allowing contribution by such Park to the region the social and economic to next Management Plan regeneration of Northumberland and wider North East Region 5.1.2 The natural, cultural, To complete study in to the value of the NNPA/ NE March 2013 social and economic eco-system services of the infrastructure of the National Northumberland National Park and share Park is sustained through its this with key policy makers, including the use as a local and regional North East LEP asset

Management Plan Outcome Outcome Lead Northumberland National Park 5.2 The National Park has made a distinctive contribution to a broader Authority network of protected areas Head of PCC Objective Action Action Timescales Indicators of Success Lead 5.2.1 To ensure the National Further develop the successful partnership NE/ NNPA Northumberland National Park is Park has a recognised role working between the Authority and Natural recognised as a regional/ national in leading on key areas of England in delivering Higher Level exemplar protected area management Stewardship by developing an monitoring which relate to its natural framework to monitor the outcomes of HLS and cultural assets

23 Item 2 National Park Authority Meeting 21 March 2012 National Park Management Plan Annual Action Plan 2012/13

Submit a bid to Defra for Local Nature NNPA June 2012 Partnership status for the Northern Upland Chain LNP with North Pennines AONB, Nidderdale AONB and the Yorkshire Dales National Park

Management Plan Outcome Outcome Lead Northumberland National Park 5.3 The value of the National Park as a place that is worth looking after is Authority clearly demonstrated by the policies and actions of all who have an Tony Gates influence on the National Park Objective Action Action Timescales Indicators of Success Lead 5.3.1 To ensure national, Farming and Rural Advisory Network to NNPA March 2013 regional and local plans, influence policy development;and the policies and programmes delivery of programmes of Defra and the clearly demonstrate a North East LEP Partner awareness survey reveals commitment to delivering To contribute to relevant national policy All partners March 2013 Northumberland National Park National Park purposes consultation exercises to ensure NNP Authority is an ‘Excellent Partner’ by interests are appropriately represented March 2012. To contribute to national and local studies All partners March 2013

and research related to the delivery of National Park purposes and duty, and host study visits to the National Park in order to help inform such studies

24 Item 2 National Park Authority Meeting 21 March 2012