For everyone who loves the Peakland guardian Summer 2015

Also protecting the landscapes of South Peaklandguardian 1 This issue… From the Chair 3 Chipping away 4 Trans-Pennine tarmac 5 Take back the tracks 6 Access for all? 7 Undergrounding for Woodhead pylons? 8 Hartington – a victory for co-ordinated 9 community co-operation Hope Valley rail loop 10 Too close for comfort 11 Stop the cuts 12 Farewell and welcome 13 Stick up for Stanage 13 Events 14-15 Green belts: defending unplanned spaces 16-17 Landscapes for everyone 18 High Peak Local Plan 19 Your legacy 20 AGM invitation 21 Friends of the Peak District is an independent “I write this at the beginning of the holiday power lines put underground. We press charity working to protect and enhance the unique season in glorious spring weather. The the planning authorities to ensure that landscapes of the Peak District for future generations. Peak District has been full of visitors much needed new housing is built on Friends of the Peak District represents the Campaign enjoying our wonderful countryside. brownfield sites rather than by eating up to Protect Rural in the Peak District, and is the I hope that you will support the work the countryside. national park society for the Peak District. that we do to protect and enhance This year we will be supporting the the countryside of the Peak District National Park Authority’s efforts to CPRE - Our aim is to promote and South Yorkshire. It is impossible to end damaging quarrying for all time on the beauty, tranquility and diversity of South attach numbers to the benefits that the Longstone Edge in the heart of the Peak Yorkshire’s countryside for everyone to enjoy now countryside gives us. At a time when District. and in the future. We campaign for green spaces the attentions of politicians are focused Please support us by joining, if you are unspoilt by development, environmentally friendly on economic growth the threats to the not already a member, or by making a farming and forestry, and thriving villages and attractive countryside are growing rather than donation. towns, connected by excellent public transport. diminishing, through inappropriate Above all, enjoy the countryside.” Registered charity number: 1094975 development and roadbuilding. John Lambert, Chair Registered company number: 4496754 We do a great deal of positive work, Cover picture: Tansley Dale ©Chris Maguire including pressing the powers that be Back page picture: Wool Packs, Kinder ©Tim Mackey to keep motor vehicles off our precious green lanes and seeking to have ugly Designed and produced by TMgraphics [email protected]

A: Victoria Hall, 37 Stafford Road, , S2 2SF Morning light on Winnats Pass T: 0114 279 2655 E: [email protected] W: www.friendsofthepeak.org.uk

2 Peaklandguardian Peaklandguardian 3 Trans-Pennine tarmac Chipping away

Quarry issues continue to keep us busy. We are now part of a new initiative to enhance dialogue and understanding in respect of quarrying around Stanton Moor. The government’s massive road widening and the clutter of signs and technology, The Stanton Moor Minerals Liaison Group but also by a flood of traffic which would drive programme received further impetus yet more upgrades. With a new planning regime was set up last year under the auspices of with the publication of the Road the National Park Authority but with an for major infrastructure projects and with national independent chair, Professor Tony Crookes, Investment Strategy in December. transport policy wholly supportive of road building a planner and former pro-vice chancellor at at any cost, this proposed upgrade threatens to sail Funding is now firmly committed through to construction without any obstacles. Sheffield University. The group brings together to an upgrade of the A628 trunk community representatives, the quarry Unless of course the idea of a road tunnel owners, local landowners, the Friends of the route with a bypass of Mottram; the between the M67 in and the M1 in Peak District and the Park’s mineral planning South Yorkshire comes to fruition? A fast all- spur linking that bypass to weather route has long been the aspiration of team. the A57; crawler lanes on the east Despite the challenges of ongoing planning local politicians, who are keen to connect local controversies, such as an appeal against the bound carriageway near Woodhead economies more reliably and efficiently, and get rid refusal of wire saws at Dale View Quarry and of road closures due to snow and high winds. Reservoir; and dualling of the A61 in Recently the Department for Transport unveiled the debate over the future of Stanton Moor South Yorkshire. Quarry, the group’s meetings have provided its plans to investigate the feasibility of a trans- a useful forum for increased understanding Pennine road tunnel. Burying a road might reduce of what have been, and continue to be, very The Friends fully support the need to relieve traffic impacts on the national park but it would thorny issues. local communities alongside the A628 trunk dump large volumes of traffic in our cities, bringing It now looks like we may see a resolution road of the negative impacts of traffic but the air pollution, road collisions and even more to quarrying at the eastern end of Longstone government’s proposed upgrade would remove congestion. Edge by the end of the year. The postponed the traffic bottleneck through Mottram, unleashing To us this was a missed opportunity for an public inquiry, which was awaiting a result from suppressed demand and attract drivers from other urgently needed fast new trans-Pennine rail link, as a similar inquiry in Oxfordshire, is now back routes. Ultimately it would just push congestion is recognised in ‘One North: A proposition for an on the cards. In our view, the Oxfordshire nearer to city centres. Unlike our proposed interconnected North’ published by the Northern decision does not appear to be a damaging alternative solution, more tarmac will do nothing Powerhouse of Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, precedent to our original case and we have for the poor air quality along the route and will Newcastle and Sheffield. So we were delighted to now called on the Planning Inspectorate to make environmental conditions much worse for learn that a rail element has now been added to re-schedule the inquiry without delay. communities such as and Langsett. the feasibility study of the tunnel. It would offer a The special landscapes of the Peak District future with less traffic, less carbon and safer travel National Park would be harmed not only by road for everyone. Isn’t that really what we want?

4 Peaklandguardian Peaklandguardian 5 Having permanently banned motorbikes and other 4x4 Take back motorised vehicles from the iconic routes of Long Causeway, Chapelgate and Access the tracks The Roych, the National Park Authority capped the achievement with a fourth for all? traffic regulation order on Leys Lane. Walkers and horse riders using the lovely narrow Leys Lane, which descends from Chertpit Lane into Great Longstone, had been intimidated and inhibited from enjoying it by speeding drivers. As a byway open to all traffic motorised users had every As we celebrate the tenth anniversary engineering works to smooth the track out (see right to use the lane but a number above). Cue outrage from the mountain biking of formal open access in the Peak community and concern regarding the lack of showed no concern for any other District, the question of who can users. sensitivity to the wild, moorland environment Traffic had escalated with motorbike go where and what the acceptable from the National Park Authority and us at the numbers doubling and 4x4 vehicles Friends. Happily DCC stepped back and have now impacts of access are is becoming a consulted widely with user groups to try to find a increasing by half over the last three very controversial issue. years. This had led to surface rutting, more acceptable solution. damage to flower-rich verges and Our Take Back the Tracks campaign which started A key issue that arose from discussions around dry-stone walls, and cutting back in 2009 on the back of members’ and public DCC’s plans was accessibility for the less able. of overhanging vegetation. Great concern over increasing damage to green lanes by Clearly not everyone can (or wants to) take up the Longstone village set up its own off-road vehicles and trailbikes, has been a game challenge of rugged, rocky paths, whether on bike, campaign ‘Rocking the Boat’ to reclaim changer in getting the National Park Authority horse or foot. But conversely, should all paths, the lane for peaceful journeys. (NPA) to take the problem more seriously. But bridleways and byways be made fully accessible, This year all who campaigned for it’s not just motorised use that causes problems especially in rugged, wilder areas such as national the lane to be closed to traffic were of erosion or conflict between users. Horses, parks? Even national groups such as the Disabled rewarded by a traffic regulation order mountain bikes and the sheer pressure of huge Ramblers (see www.disabledramblers.co.uk) say to permanently ban cars and bikes. numbers of walkers who enjoy the national park, ‘no’ and put the main force of their lobbying into The impact of such action on the three all leave their ‘footprint’. removing obstacles, such as stiles and gates, from other lanes has been profound with This came to a head recently when the highway otherwise accessible routes. drastic reduction in their use by motor authority for most of the Peak – Nearer to home, local charity Accessible vehicles. There is every reason to County Council (DCC) – decided unilaterally to Derbyshire (see www.accessiblederbyshire.org), expect the same impact on Leys Lane make repairs to a section of the iconic Chapelgate recently launched their ‘Big Push’ campaign to which will become a tranquil walk or byway running down from Rushup Edge to the make the Peak District the most accessible national ride instead of a race track. Hoorah! road between Castleton and Chapel-en-le-Frith. park, encouraging everyone to do their bit for Here, erosion over the centuries has worn the accessible leisure and tourism. This is a hugely track into a sunken holloway of great character, deserving initiative and we’re proud that some with sections of slabby bedrock and rocky steps. of our corporate members, such as Hoe Grange DCC judged these to represent unacceptable Holidays, are pioneering more accessible tourism conditions for the majority of users and started in the Peak.

6 Peaklandguardian Peaklandguardian 7 Undergrounding for Hartington Woodhead pylons? a victory for Visual Impact Provision Fund much damage would be done to internationally co-ordinated After six years of urging National Grid to important wildlife sites if the undergrounding works underground the Woodhead wires, we have were to take place. However, the sections of the inched a little nearer to their potential burial. There Peak District line deemed the worst - between Bridge and the eastern edge of the community is a £500 million fund available for addressing the national park near the A616, and between the eyesores of high voltage lines in national parks and Woodhead Tunnels and Tintwistle - may avoid AONBs (areas of outstanding natural beauty). After a such impact, particularly where the route lies along co-operation thorough assessment through a transparent process, the trans-Pennine Trail. the Woodhead line has been shortlisted as having The cost of removing the pylons and burying the second worst landscape impact from its pylons this 8km stretch would be between £10 and £24 - after the Tamar Valley – and therefore a strong million per km, depending on terrain. Clearly young families move into Hartington, and breathe candidate for funding to improve its appearance. We undergrounding does not come cheap and new We shared Hartington’s disbelief fresh life into the village. They don’t want what are delighted! style T-pylons or improved screening by vegetation when the national park’s planning they have been offered: an executive enclave, a There are a number of hurdles to overcome could be used instead. So although we are a step for all of the eight shortlisted schemes officers recommended approval of ‘gated community without the gates’. They co- nearer to our goal, the practicalities of what including how ordinated their objections to the scheme, turned can be done on the ground may limit overall the latest proposal to redevelop the out in force to the planning committee, and struck success. Dairycrest site in their village, which a chord with the members. It was a brilliant case included just four affordable houses. study in how to influence local decision-making. Thankfully, we were also able to The proposals were refused permission because they are wrong for the scale and needs of the share in their celebrations when the village, and also because they show no attempt committee members went against the to provide for sustainability considerations such officers and turned the scheme down. as zero-energy buildings. We commend both the members and the officers for establishing Everyone accepts that the derelict site to the west a principled position on the need for any new of Hartington needs to be cleaned up, and that development to be sustainable as well as sensitive. some new houses will be involved. However, the The sticky question is what happens next. only reason for approving the current proposals The developer may try and push ahead with the would be what ‘Yes, Prime Minister’ famously scheme by appealing against the decision, but described as politician’s logic: ‘Something must having already lost one appeal on the site a few be done; this is something, therefore it must be years ago, we hope they’ve lost their appetite for done’. Indeed, one committee member did put an adversarial stance. It would be much better for forward that very argument. By contrast, most the developer to listen to what the community members were clear that Hartington deserved wants, and work with them to make it acceptable better, and that it was worth holding out for a in planning terms, and financially viable. As the solution more suited to the character and needs of committee members and the local community the village. poured out of the meeting there seemed to be We were really impressed by the local some optimism that more dialogue and co- community’s approach to this case. They are operation might be the way forward… but the not Nimbys: they want new development and developer has to agree to that too. eloquently expressed their desire to see more

8 Peaklandguardian Peaklandguardian 9 Too close for comfort Hope Valley Although we are strongly supportive of small scale renewable energy generation in the Peak District, we are clear that the national park – and some areas close to the park – are rail loop too sensitive and special for industrial scale wind generation. So, following an application for a five turbine wind farm at Griffe Grange, just to the south of Bonsall Moor, we joined forces with the National Trust and CPRE Derbyshire to issue a joint press release opposing the development. Better journeys nger We were in good company – the #*"A We’re planning to improve sections of railway in the Hope Valley, close to Dore & station, Bamford and Hathersage. Our plans will allow passe National Park Authority,services to overtake slower the moving freight Ramblers, and stopping passenger trains. &'15'**"#*'4#0 #22#0(-30,#71-,2&#0-32# Consent#25##, ,! #0 ,"&#Ƈ for the work improving capacity, frequency and reliability.Where we are proposing to use land or build outside of the established boundary of the railway, we will submit an application for a Transport and Works Act Order (TWAO) Background – investment in the Hope Valley to the Secretary of State for Transport. nger Improving We consulted on previous plans to improve the railway in Some of the improvements will take place within the Better journeys oundary of the Peak & Northernthe Hope Valley Footpaths in November 2013 and collected valuable boundaries ofSociety Network Rail’s land and will not be included . feedback from the local community. in the TWAO application. s of the scheme In November 2013, our plans included building new track near An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will consider all N e x t s t e p s Grindleford station. Since then, the rail industry has reviewed aspects of the scheme, whether part of the TWAO or not rail journeys frequent We’re planning to improve sections of railway in the Hope Valley, close to the timetable requirements for the route and has decided there is a need for three fast passenger trains per hour. Improving rail in the north Dore & Totley station, Bamford and Hathersage. Our plans will allow passe e We would like to know what plus most of the localThe previous parishrequirement of four fast trains per hour meantcouncils Network Rail is improving the Hope Valley’s railway as part services to overtake slower moving freight and stopping passenger trains. Where we are proposing to use land or build outside of the established b , we had to build the new track at Grindleford. Now that the of over £1 billion of investment to deliver faster, more you think about the plans. the railway, we will prepare an application for these particular element ll scope has changed, we no longer need to pursue this option. services across the north of England. Demand for train travel in the north #25##,&#Ƈ#*" ," ,! #0'1',!0# 1',%A5'2&$-0#! 121 Please complete this comment card The new option, between Bamford station and Jagger’s Lan &'15'**"#*'4#0 #22#0(-30,#71-,2&#0-32# Consent#25##, ,! #0 ,"&#Ƈ#*"A for the work and apply for a Transport and Works Act Order (TWAO) to the Secretary and return it to us by 28 February 2015. bridge near Hathersage, is easier to build and generates fewer 1&-5',% 7mkmt"#+ ,"5'**%0-5pq|',&#Ƈ#*" ,"qq| improving capacity, frequency and reliability.Where we are proposing to use land or build outside of of State for Transport. construction impacts. In addition to this, the new plans do not ', ,! #0@&#.0-.-1 *15'**'+.0-4#2&#*',# #25##, the established boundary of the railway, we will submit an Faster, more frequent services Ɔ#!2 ,7 ,!'#,25--"* ,"@ &#Ƈ#*" ," ,! #0A ,"',!*3"#+ (-03.%0 "#12-2&# application for a Transport and HaveWorks Act Order (TWAO)your say railway near Dore & Totley, Bamford and Hathersage. To inform the design, we’re consulting with the public, stakeholders and our colleagues were also strongly againstThe plans for works near Dore & Totleyplanning station and at Background – investment in the Hope Valley to the Secretary of State for Transport. Improving Dore South Curve remain largely unchanged from what we We consulted on previous plans to improve the railway in Some of the improvements will take place within the Email in the rail industry. The feedback submitted to us, along with a range of other factors consulted on in 2013. However, we would like to take this dary of the Hope Valley in November 2013 and collected valuable boundaries of Network Rail’s land and will not be included Full name 4. Are there any aspects of the scheme will be reported on as part of the Transport and Works Act Order application and wi opportunity to raise awareness of the plans for this area feedback from the local community. in the TWAO application. Postcode 2& 2!-3*" #'+.0-4#"= January 2015 again now that we are developing the design of the scheme In November 2013, our plans included building new track near An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) will consider all &#*.',$-0+2&#"#2 '*-$2&#i, *1!&#+#@ to support the Transport and Works Act Order application. Grindleford station. Since then, the rail industry has reviewed N e x t s t e p s rail journeys aspects of the scheme, whether part of the TWAO1. Do youor not. support investment in the railway the timetable requirements for the route and has decided permission being granted. Improving rail in the north #25##,&#Ƈ#*" ," ,! #0= there is a need for three fast passenger trains per hour. Summer 2017 olleagues The previous requirement of four fast trains per hour meant Network Rail is improving the Hope Valley’s railway as part St r o n g ly We would like to know what Disagree disagree Where we are proposing to use land or build outside of the established boun we had to build the new track at Grindleford. Now that the of over £1 billion of investment to deliver faster, more frequent Undecided Start on site subject to consent 2 0 1 9 you think about the plans. scope has changed, we no longer need to pursue this option. services across the north of England. Demand for train Agtravel re e Timeline the railway, we will prepare an application for these particular elements of the scheme Strongly 5. Do you ever visit the areas shown on in the north #25##,&#Ƈ#*" ," ,! #0'1',!0# 1',%A5'2&$-0#! 121 Please complete this comment card The new option, between Bamford station and Jagger’s Lane Spring 2015 agree 2&#+ .1= $1-A$-05& 2.30.-1# ," and apply for a Transport and Works Act Order (TWAO) to the Secretary bridge near Hathersage, is easier to build and generates fewer 1&-5',% 7mkmt"#+ ,"5'**%0-5pq|',&#Ƈ#*" ,"qq| Pre-submission public and return it to us by 28 February 2015. Jan/Feb 2015 Winter 2018 construction impacts. In addition to this, the new plans do not ', ,! #0@&#.0-.-1 *15'**'+.0-4#2&#*',#2. Do you support #25##, the plans for the railway "-7-3#4#04#,230#-Ɔ2&#.3 *'!. 2&1= exhibition Our principal concern was the impact on the of State for Transport. Public Faster, more frequent services &#Ƈ#*" ," ,! #0A ,"',!*3"#+ (-03.%0 "#12-2&# New services start Ɔ#!2 ,7 ,!'#,25--"* ,"@ 0-3,"-0#9-2*#712 2'-,= consultation Have your say railway near Dore & Totley, Bamford and Hathersage. St r o n g ly To inform the design, we’re consulting with the public, stakeholders and our c The plans for works near Dore & Totley station and at Disagree disagree Summer/Autumn 2015 Dore South Curve remain largely unchanged from what we Undecided in the rail industry. The feedback submitted to us, along with a range of other factors, Submission of application Email consulted on in 2013. However, we would like to take this Ag re e 2 0 1 5 Spring 2015 Strongly r@-7-3& 4# ,7-2�!-++#,21= Full name 4. Are there any aspects of the scheme will be reported on as part of the Transport and Works Act Order application and will opportunity to raise awareness of the plans for this area Analysis of nearby landscape of Bonsall Moor which is agree Postcode 2& 2!-3*" #'+.0-4#"= January 2015 again now that we are developing the design of the scheme consultation &#*.',$-0+2&#"#2 '*-$2&#i, *1!&#+#@ to support the Transport and Works Act Order application. 3. Do you support the plans for the railway feedback

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#25##,&#Ƈ#*" ," ,! #0= St r o n g ly Please tick this box if you do not wish Bushy Heath Farm turbine

Disagree ith the Data . criss-crossed by very popular paths, including St r o n g ly Summer 2017 disagree us to contact you again. Undecided ail in accordance anyw third partiesnaire, Disagree disagree Ag re e ely by Network R Undecided Start on site subject Strongly ill not be passed in to this question Ag re e Timeline to consent 2 0 1 9 ill be held secur consultation and wg to participate agree personal detailsement w Scheme above. By agreein Strongly 5. Do you ever visit the areas shown on Spring 2015 etwork Rail. opeYour Valley Improv u have provided agree l be analysed by N the answers yo 2&#+ .1= $1-A$-05& 2.30.-1# ," Thank you. ection with the H Pre-submission public d comments wild solely in conn estions concerning the national trail of the Limestone Way. The Jan/Feb 2015 avoids compromising them. We do not believe Winter 2018 2. Do you support the plans for the railway "-7-3#4#04#,230#-Ɔ2&#.3 *'!. 2&1= exhibition Your enquiriesct 1998,an will be use ny follow up qu Public Protection A t you if we have a his way. 0-3,"-0#9-2*#712 2'-,= New services start consultation We may contacbeing contacted in t you agree to [email protected] St r o n g ly Disagree disagree Summer/Autumn 2015 08457 11 41 41 Undecided or call Submission of application Ag re e 2 0 1 5 Spring 2015 turbines, together with another seven already these tests have been passed at Griffe Grange.” Strongly r@-7-3& 4# ,7-2�!-++#,21= For more information please contact agree Analysis of v is it networkrail.co.uk/hopevalley consultation 3. Do you support the plans for the railway feedback

#25##, +$-0" ," 2 %#= built or planned to the south, near Carsington The showdown came at a special planning St r o n g ly The carries ancient woodland. Please tick this box if you do not wish Disagree disagree us to contact you again. e with the Datarties.

Undecided ail in accordancd to any third pa re, Ag re e ely by Network R this questionnai Strongly will not be passe ill be held secur consultation and g to participate in agree personal detailsement w Scheme above. By agreein etwork Rail. opeYour Valley Improv u have provided Water, would be readily visible over a large part l be analysed by N the answers yo committee of District Council ection with the H passengers between Sheffield and However, the loop has to be Thank you.d comments wild solely in conn estions concerning Your enquiriesct 1998,an will be use ny follow up qu Protection A t you if we have a his way. We may contacbeing contacted in t you agree to [email protected] or call 08457 11 41 41 Manchester through some of the most beautiful as near as possible to the mainline connection at of the south Peak limestone plateau. This would where, with many others, we addressed the For more information please contact v is it networkrail.co.uk/hopevalley parts of the Peak District National Park and offers Dore so that slower freight trains don’t impede the have a strongly negative impact on tourism, a key elected councillors and asked them to refuse a huge opportunity to reduce cross Peak District fast trains, and the line needs to be straight, well economic sector for the Peak District, including the the application. Despite worries that their commuting, and cut car traffic into the Park. screened and not subject to flooding. Derbyshire Dales. Finally, the turbines would cause decision could be appealed, with all the resource However the line is reaching capacity and services Network Rail’s latest proposal for a passing significant impacts on the hamlet of Ible, blighting implications for a cash-strapped local authority desperately need improving. The proposed Hope loop between Bamford station and Jaggers Lane, local amenity to an unacceptable degree. that follow, the councillors turned the application Valley passing loop and doubling of the track at Hathersage, fulfils all of these criteria, and so National Trust’s general manager for the Peak down by a margin of 11-4. We are relieved for the Dore would allow an hourly stopping service to be appears the best option, although we await the District Jon Stewart commented “We believe time being but fully expect that we will be arguing added to the two fast trains and one limited stop Environmental Impact Assessment before making that wind has a role in meeting the country’s the points again at a public inquiry sometime later train. more detailed comments. But as more trains, low carbon energy and energy security needs. this year. Unless national planning policy is further We objected to Network Rail’s original plan particularly those carrying freight, will increase the However, we have a duty to protect beautiful relaxed by the next government, we remain for a loop at Grindleford because it would have noise in the valley we will be seeking longer term places and believe that any wind energy proposals confident that there are strong planning grounds damaged the Longshaw estate and destroyed improvement to the route through electrification. should be located, designed and on a scale that for an inspector to dismiss an appeal.

10 Peaklandguardian Peaklandguardian 11 An era closed in December last year with the Farewell and welcome! departure of Jim Dixon as chief executive of the Peak District National Park Authority. We worked closely with Jim throughout his tenure and knew that he understood, even when we disagreed, that our role as a ‘critical friend’ was important and recognised. We wish him well with his new roles, writing for The Times and helping advise a range of regional public sector bodies. We now welcome Sarah Fowler as the Stop the new chief exec. She has huge environmental experience, initially with the wildlife trusts and RSPB, and latterly with the Environment Agency. She’s already establishing a reputation as cuts personable and keen to get out and about to know her new patch. At a time when resources are diminishing, both for the public and charity sectors, Any doubts that the public do not Like other we look forward to exploring options for more value our national parks have been national parks partnership working with her and the national park the Peak District has not which we both exist to protect. well and truly shot down by the escaped cuts in government funding. Over the last 80,000 people who signed the 38 five years it has been cut by 35% and faces a 1.7% degrees petition to the Prime Minister cut this year with threats of more to come. But with other national parks it has been upbeat about Stick up for Stanage! asking him to stop cutting national addressing this, developing a sponsorship deal A new sticker scheme has been place that people love to return to time and again for parks’ funding. Our national partner with Airwick to produce a range of national park outdoor recreation and relaxation. introduced to raise funds for Campaign for National Parks worked fragrances and setting up a fundraising trust. “We know that people are keen to help care for Behind the scenes though, there have been conservation and recreation at Stanage. and protect it. The sticker scheme enables them to with 38 degrees to ensure this some fundamental losses. Since 2010 the Peak do that by making a modest annual contribution.” Visitors to Stanage-North Lees, near Hathersage, success. It is a firm foundation from District has lost 40 jobs and cut back education, As well as footpaths and access land, Stanage are being encouraged to contribute money to volunteering, rights of way and ranger services. has 1700 recognised climbing and bouldering which to build further support and help look after its internationally important Difficult decisions to increase carpark charges and routes and classic cycling routes. The sticker landscape. influence politicians. introduce charging for pre-application planning E-NOR scheme has been welcomed by the The new contribution scheme has G TH advice could lead to negative impacts on the park. A L British Mountaineering Council and However the first question anyone will ask is why been set up to help pay for access N E At the same time the traditional public sector A o E Ride Sheffield. should national parks be spared from austerity improvements, bird conservation, T Ours t S measures? In this recession everyone is being cut partners such as county councils, the Forestry S are For We are supporting the scheme woodland management works and P C Commission and Natural England are also being and think it’s a great way for back, so why not them? E visitor information. K cut, meaning even less funding for the park. A R everyone who loves Stanage to We only have to look at our cherished Peak K In return for a contribution of A Any further loss of funding and jobs could mean District to answer: its inspirational landscapes D P give a little bit back to such a special that the park will not have the resources to carry £15, people will receive a sticker to I L are fundamental to the wellbeing of everyone S 2015/16 A place and get some great benefits display in their car for 12 months free TR N out anything other than statutory planning work. IC TIO too. who lives on its doorstep. They refresh weary parking at Stanage car parks, and they T NA National parks cost each person in the UK less People can obtain stickers from Stanage- urban spirits and offer freedoms and personal will be entitled to a discount at the campsite. than a £1 per person per year. Surely cheap at the North Lees campsite, Castleton visitor centre, and challenges to those seeking adventure. The Owned by the Peak District National Park, price? So please Prime Minister – stop the cuts! the Outside shop in Hathersage (cash only). national park also shows us how to live, work and the 542 hectare estate is only eight miles from Stanage stickers are also available by phoning play in a sustainable partnership with the natural , yet it includes the iconic 01629 816200 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm), world on which we all depend for our survival. gritstone cliffs of Stanage Edge and is home to ring emailing [email protected] or Neglect these landscapes and what they offer will ouzel (the mountain blackbird) and internationally online at www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/shop/ disappear. It may not happen overnight but slowly important moorland. More information about Stanage-North Lees is and surely, degradation will set in as resources are Rebekah Newman, Stanage-North Lees at www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/stanage-northlees depleted. manager, said: “Stanage is a unique and inspirational 12 Peaklandguardian Peaklandguardian 13 The small village of Bamford in the Hope Valley is a hive of activity There are regular events at The Anglers Rest (Bamford’s community-owned pub/café/Post Office): an everyone- Events join-in folk night on the first Monday of each month; a Cotton Grass Theatre presents “The Unknown Land” challenging quiz every Wednesday and regular live music gigs; plus home-cooked meals, lunches and snacks every by Caroline Small day in The Rest café. The farmers’ market takes place on the Friday 13 November at Hathersage Memorial Hall third Saturday of the month and is either in the pub car park In aid of Friends of the Peak District or in Bamford Institute opposite if the weather isn’t behaving itself. The Unknown Land is a compelling tale of extreme survival from a time before radio communication and Also watch out for the Bamford Community Arts & Crafts events; the 2015 programme includes specialised polar equipment; the human tale behind the politics of the age; the tale of one man’s journey everyone’s favourites, the Houghton Weavers performing at the Institute in May, the marvellous Dark to the ends of the earth and deep inside his own mind. This is an original play for one actor and many Horses (Keith Donnelly and Flossie Malavialle) in October and a November ceilidh, with Whiskey in the Jar. characters. Performed by ex-RSC actor, David Frederickson, and professional folk singer, Keith Kendrick, and inspired by the deeds of 19th century Arctic explorers, Inuit mythology and the fatal attraction of the Wells dressings in the Peak District polar regions. The true origins of well dressings are lost but according to many sources, it developed from a pagan “A terrific performance by David Frederickson in a really fascinating play full of wit and love that I didn’t custom of making sacrifice to the gods to ensure a supply of fresh water. Like many folk traditions, it was expect from the title and subject matter. If it’s not the most unexpectedly joyous night out I’ll have this year later adopted by the Christian Church as a way of giving thanks to God for the gift of water. It took on a it’ll do to be going on with.” (Rony Robinson, BBC Radio Sheffield) special significance in 17th century Derbyshire as various villages, gave thanks for their deliverance from “The text moves from humorous accounts on-board the expedition vessel, and anecdotes from Samuel’s the plague which had decimated nearby . childhood, to startlingly beautiful moments of language, from a description of belugas passing beneath the In the early days, the dressing of wells would have taken the form of ship, to the Inuit interpretation of the Northern Lights as ‘a thousand torches... lighting the feet of the dead as simple arrangements of flowers and other natural materials. In this form they cross the bridge to the heavens.’ Keith Kendrick’s musical interludes give the piece true wallop - haunting it takes place today in many parts of the world. The unique Derbyshire English folk songs are beautifully delivered”. (Buxton Fringe review by Collette Talbot 2013) tradition of elaborate pictures made for the most part of individual Tickets on sale on the Friends website: www.friendsofthepeak.org.uk or by phoning 0114 279 2655 flower petals pressed onto clay covered boards seems to date from Victorian times, when there were many movements afoot to revive and Looking for an interesting local speaker? enhance old folk traditions. We have a team of speakers, one of whom can come and give a fascinating talk and presentation about Between May and September well dressings celebrate everything our work in the Peak District at your meeting. We can usually do daytimes or evenings, we charge just from biblical scenes to special anniversaries. Below is a list of just a few £40 and our talks can be tailored to last between 30 minutes and an hour. Peak District well dressings in 2015. For the full list see: To find out more please contact Julie Gough or download a booking form from the website. www.visitpeakdistrict.com/events Bradwell Open Gardens Middleton by Youlgrave: Sat 23 - Fri 29 May Saturday 8 August 2015 Monyash: Sat 23 May - Mon 1 Jun Bradwell Open Gardens was a great Tideswell: Fri 19 - Sun 21 Jun success in 2014, and will be open Litton: Sat 20 - Sun 28 Jun Eyam well dressing again this year. Explore the delightful Youlgrave: Sat 20 - Thu 25 Jun Peak District village and its network Tintwistle: Fri 26 Jun - Fri 3 Jul of lanes; visit private gardens, chat Bakewell: Sat 27 Jun - Sun 5 Jul to the gardeners, have a cup of tea Whaley Bridge: Sun 28 Jun - Sun 5 Jul (or even a Pimms), rest and enjoy Dore: Sat 4 - Sat 11 Jul the views. Details of ticket sales will Over Haddon: Sat 4 - Sun 12 Jul be posted on the website: www. Buxton: Sun 5 - Mon 13 Jul bradwellopengardens.org.uk. Hathersage: Sun 5 - Sat 11 Jul Proceeds from the ticket sales are Hayfield: Sat 11 - Sun 19 Jul shared between St Barnabas Church Pilsley: Thu 16 - Thu 23 Jul and the Methodist Church. This event Great Longstone: Sat 18 - Sat 25 Jul Stony Middleton well dressing ©Frank Kent is part of Bradwell Well Dressing Stoney Middleton: Sat 25 Jul - Mon 3 Aug week so there will be several wells to visit and exhibitions in the church and chapel. Eyam: Sat 29 Aug - Sat 12 Sep Refreshments will be available at some of the gardens and at the church and Methodist schoolroom. Foolow: Sat 29 Aug - Sun 6 Sep ©Judie Smith Brownie

14 Peaklandguardian Peaklandguardian 15 always lacked mechanisms to increase the quality, the green belt, then the graduated patchwork of diversity and accessibility of open land within them. transitional lands will be squeezed to nothing, and This in turn, has fuelled the argument that they are we’ll be left with a binary, either-or landscape: nothing more than barriers, girdles that constrain there’ll either be housing, or an absence of it. belt is simply a victim of towns, rather than environmental and cultural There’ll be nowhere for entropic beauty to evolve, inflated targets. The trouble resources in their own right. and there’ll be no surprises. is that when landowners To my mind, it’s this half-finished, narrow Planning shouldn’t just regulate, it should see the prospect of building conception of green belts that makes the Barnsley intervene - to make places better where they houses on their bit of the Green Belt Review such depressing reading. It are lacking, to create spaces for the imaginative green belt, the land acquires sets much store by how ‘strong’ a boundary exists instead of the generic, and to anticipate restorative the ‘hope value’ that big between built form and countryside, as delineated opportunities where transition, experiment money is to be made from by its green belt. If the edge is clearly marked, by and natural processes can thrive. If green belts it, and they lobby hard to a road, river or distinct land form, this is deemed are to be rethought, then that should be the persuade local authorities to to be a strong, defensible boundary that the green starting point. At the most fundamental level, release it for development. belt can emphasise. If, on the other hand, the edge planning needs to intervene in the market for Personally, I have always is disjointed, characterised by unkempt hedgerows, land, to suppress the profit motive in some been passionate about the allotments, a gentle shift across an escarpment places and create incentives for innovative relationship between cities, from one landscape into another, this is seen as development in others, and guard zealously against Green belts: nature and landscape. We a weak boundary, prone to being breached, and homogenisation. That’s pretty much the opposite protect the countryside therefore not worthy of retaining its green belt of what it is doing at present - to the detriment defending unplanned spaces from suburbanization most designation. both of city and of country, and that’s why we By Andrew Wood, Planning Officer effectively by making cities This mindset is potentially catastrophic. If a need to champion a much more vigorous, more great, sustainable places ‘strong’ boundary is the defining characteristic of imaginative planning system. Green belts across the country are to live and work. I’m especially fascinated by the fringe areas that are neither town nor country, with being plundered to make space for their mishmash of allotments, stables, cemeteries, development, despite government pumping stations, sports pitches, railway sidings, a assertions to the contrary. In our area, few workshops, maybe an incongruously-placed pub or chapel. I’m not alone in my obsession: Green Belts in High Peak, Sheffield, architectural writer Jonathan Meades has written Barnsley and North-East Derbyshire about the ‘entropic beauty’ of unplanned bits of are an important buffer between land that evolve through a mix of neglect and appropriation into something worth treasuring; built-up areas and the Peak District and in Tim Bradford’s wonderfully eccentric National Park, and they are all under Groundwater Diaries, these are the places where review. streams and rivers escape their urban culverts and become the water features of parks, havens for The biggest problem is that green belts are being wildlife, and the gaps through which footpaths and reviewed for the wrong reasons. The planning cycle paths can connect the urban and the rural in system as a whole has accepted the notion that surprising ways. a shortage of land supply for housing can trigger Green belts are hugely successful and popular a review of green belt, but local authorities are for their track record in preventing one settlement being pushed by both developers and government merging into the next; if you doubt this, go to to pursue inflated housebuilding targets that most other countries, where their absence has they cannot possibly achieve. In the Local Plan allowed an almost endless streak of buildings along consultations we have worked on recently, any main road. But planning’s approach to the the difference between the planned target and countryside is very bad at nurturing environmental the number of houses actually likely to be built quality. Ringfenced, designated assets like ancient matches quite closely the amount of green belt woodlands indirectly encourage the trashing of Barnsley’s green belt release that is proposed; in other words the green anything outside them, while green belts have

16 Peaklandguardian Peaklandguardian 17 Landscapes for everyone: High Peak Local Plan

creating a better future At the beginning of 2015, Friends developer representative said to me in the wings during a tea-break, “is that the National Planning planning officer, Andrew Wood, spent Policy Framework isn’t working.” an intense three weeks participating in I now understand the official meaning of the the High Peak Local Plan Examination. term ‘localism’. It means that a local authority is at liberty to steer its own course on any subject for Here’s an extract from his website which there is no government policy; whereas blog… if there is a government policy then the local A Local Plan Examination is a very technical authority cannot diverge from it. process, analysing numbers and the wording of For example, if High Peak wanted to set higher CPRE has been leading the development of ‘Landscapes policies to see how well, or badly, they reflect standards for the design and efficiency of new our interests. The house-builders make no bones housing than are set out in the building regulations, for everyone: creating a better future’. It is a shared it probably couldn’t. If a community wants to vision of why our unique British landscapes should be about their motives to extract more development land, whilst environmental and community groups produce a neighbourhood plan, it can do so as better valued for the benefit of current and future generations make counter-arguments, and the local authority long as none of its policies clash with national and what government action is needed to achieve this. sits like a rabbit in the headlights, defending the policy. years of work that have gone into trying to find the And what about climate change? What would a The vision is supported by 33 organisations development. We should also maintain other right compromise between competing demands. climate change policy for the High Peak look like if including the National Trust, the Campaign for critically important planning policies, such as green In recent years this ‘theatre’ has taken on it was really informed by its unique geography and National Parks, the Ramblers, the John Muir belts, which have been very effective in preventing a new and depressing dimension, where the ‘evidence’ of local opinion? I suspect it wouldn’t Trust, the Open Spaces Society, the British inappropriate development in other areas of the central government looms large, and the be the currently proposed plan which tries to Mountaineering Council and the Landscape countryside. main requirement of the plan above all else, is persuade new developments to bolt in a few Institute. With ongoing speculative development compliance with the National Planning Policy mechanics like renewable energy and sustainable in and around sensitive areas, this varied group The vision calls on all political parties to recognise Framework (NPPF) and the number of new drainage. I think, instead, it would take each believes it is vital for future government policy the importance of landscape by committing to: houses to be planned for. settlement, each landscape, each transport route, and funding to reflect the extraordinary value of • Better landscapes for people The developers then dig away at the aspects each sector of employment, each public service landscapes. • Better planning for landscapes of the plan which they believe constrain their and each river and ask, “What needs to change Our landscapes are hugely important to the • Better places for nature freedoms to build what they want, where they to genuinely reduce carbon emissions and respond nation’s health and wellbeing, making a significant want. In most of the sessions, Friends of the Peak to a changing climate? How do we know the local contribution to the economy through tourism Shaun Spiers, CPRE chief executive, comments: District is the only voice arguing that more specific community agrees with this analysis? And what can and farming and by providing attractive places “For far too long, England’s landscapes have been constraints are needed, that affordable housing the Local Plan do to help make those changes?” for people to live, work and play. They are also undervalued given the understandable focus on should take priority over market housing, and that That would be a very different type of Local nature’s home, providing habitats for many economic recovery. But beautiful landscapes and the character and function of settlements and the Plan, but it would be genuinely local. threatened species and vital environmental services a strong economy go together. CPRE believes that countryside are at least as important as the need such as carbon storage and alleviating flooding. government at all levels needs to do more to ensure for housing. With increasing pressure for housing, transport our diverse landscapes survive and thrive, and to As often happens at these events, the most and other infrastructure, it is more important support local communities in safeguarding them. We interesting conversations take place off the record. than ever that government policy, funding and are calling on all political parties to commit to the For example, “the government doesn’t actually care legislation recognise the enormous contribution calls to action in Landscapes for Everyone.” about increasing housebuilding or tackling the housing that distinctive, beautiful, characterful and cared for Julian Woolford, chief executive, Campaign for crisis, it just wants to give the impression of doing...” landscapes make to the nation. National Parks, comments: “National parks are Planning is in crisis: central government has We must ensure that areas which have ‘living landscapes’ making a significant contribution arbitrarily blamed the planning system for the been designated for the national value of their to the economy through tourism, farming and other shortage of housing, and local authorities are in landscapes, including national parks and AONBs, related businesses as well as containing breath-taking the firing line.“One thing we all agree on,” one continue to be protected from inappropriate scenery, rare wildlife and cultural heritage.”

18 Peaklandguardian Peaklandguardian 19 planning officer’s time and plan a pilot face-to-face Let the Peak District recruitment programme, aimed at growing our Come to our 2015 AGM and talk. countryside be part membership in the coming years. We also still owe a huge debt of gratitude to All welcome! of your legacy Gerald and Ethel Haythornthwaite – not only to their lifetimes’ work – but also the assets they left You are cordially invited to our 2015 AGM to be held at our offices (Victoria Hall, 37 Stafford Rd, Sheffield “The English countryside is an to the charity, part of which still sustain us today S2 2SF) at 6.30pm on Wednesday 24 June. At 7.30pm - after the formal business (see the agenda below) exceptional creation - immensely through our invested reserves. Without them and and refreshments - we welcome the Chair of the Peak District National Park Authority, Councillor Lesley many other benefactors, we would not be able to old, full of surprises and nearly Roberts, who will talk about the challenges facing the Peak District, followed by award winning author continue fighting for the wonderful landscapes which and journalist (The Guardian’s Country Diarist for the Peak), Ed Douglas, who will be talking about writing always pleasing to look at. For me, have inspired so many of us through our lives. about the Peak. Non-members should arrive at 7.15pm the countryside represents so much Legacies do not have to be large gifts. No matter Please let us know if you plan to attend the AGM by contacting Susan Belt on 0114 275 1649 or what the amount, your gift will be used to help of what makes life worth living but [email protected]. Full papers will be on our website www.friendsofthepeak.org.uk from protect the beautiful Peak District for tomorrow’s early June or ask Susan if you would like a hard copy mailing out. If you wish to put a motion from the how much of it will be left for future children to enjoy. floor, please notify us by 12 May; if you make an independent nomination for a new Board member, generations to enjoy?” Bill Bryson As we are a registered charity, any type of legacy please notify us by 26 May. you leave us is entirely free of inheritance tax. Without gifts left in wills, many of the charities we Leaving a legacy to the Friends of the Peak District AGM 2015 Agenda know wouldn’t even exist. Charitable legacies are is very straightforward and your solicitor will be 1. Welcome, introduction and apologies the foundation for many good causes in the UK and best placed to advise you on this. You just need are vital for continuing their work. to provide them with our charity number, which 2. Minutes of the 2014 AGM of CPRE Peak District and South Yorkshire This is the case for us too. For almost 90 years is: 1094975. To find a local solicitor who can help 3. Presentation of the 2014 annual report and annual accounts Friends of the Peak District has worked to care for you make your will, visit the Law Society’s “Find a 4. Appointment of auditors for 2015: we propose that VAS Community Accountancy Service be re- and protect the national park, so that millions of Solicitor” website and use the quick search option appointed to independenly examine the accounts people can continue to enjoy and benefit from it. “Wills and probate”. 5. Election of Chair, Vice-Chair and Trustees: Our charity relies entirely on voluntary donations. Your will gives you the opportunity to benefit the a. that John Lambert and Pat Coleman be elected as Chair and Vice-chair, respectively; Over the last two years, we have been privileged people and places you love the most. We hope b. that Yvonne Ritter be re-elected as a trustee; to receive legacies totalling nearly £90,000. This you will consider leaving a gift to Friends of the Peak c. that Andy Topley and Faith Johnson be elected as trustees. money is crucial in supporting our core work of District. planning vigilance and sustaining the organisation If you have any questions please contact Julie 6. Election of President: Dame Fiona Reynolds in the long term. These recent legacies have Gough on 0114 279 2655 or email julie@ 7. Pre-notified items: to be submitted by 12 May allowed us to pay for an extra day per week of our friendsofthepeak.org.uk 8. Any other business Magnificent Walk 2015 – Skyline Thanks to everyone who took part on 25 April for making Ed Douglas is one of Britain’s best outdoor it a such great and journalists and an acclaimed author. His books enjoyable day. include Chomolungma Sings the Blues, the Where shall we go Councillor Lesley Roberts (centre front) is the first woman biographies of Sherpa Tenzing and the modern and first Parish Council member to chair the PDNPA. She was British climbers, Ron Fawcett and Ben Moon. He next year? appointed in 2014. She hails from Leekfrith in the Staffordshire is currently writing a book about Kinder Scout. Moorlands area of the Peak. © Vertebrate Publishing

20 Peaklandguardian Peaklandguardian 21 The Peak District is everyone’s business Yes – I would like to be a Friend We know that each year 22 million visitors the support of friends, members, partners and enjoy Britain’s oldest national park as a source of sponsors to carry out our work successfully. We of the Peak District inspiration, relaxation and recreation. Thousands rely on partnerships with those who live and work Membership type (please tick) Minimum annual amount of local businesses rely on the beauty of the in this area to help us achieve our vision of a living, Annual individual £27 Peak District, a hugely valuable asset, for their working Peak District. Annual joint £42 livelihood. At the Friends of the Peak District, we As a Corporate Friend - for a minimum of Silver Guardian £100 strive to protect the landscape and the sustainable £50 you will receive: communities who live in it. • 20% discount on adverts in Peakland Guardian Gold Guardian £250 Friends of the Peak District is proud to be a • Use of Friends’ logo for a link on your website Life membership (under 60) £600 member of Business Peak District. Alongside other • Web profile (250 words + image) on the Life membership (60+) £350 businesses we agree that we: Friends website – with a link to your website • Stand by the vision that the Peak District will • Two membership magazines, Peakland Gift membership Y/N be a distinctive, high quality rural environment Guardian, per year Your details Name(s) ______with an enterprising, growing and sustainable • Leaflets for display (as many as you require) Address ______economy, • Additional copies of Peakland Guardian for your • Have a passion for the Peak District, its unique guests (on request) ______Postcode______landscapes, character and experiences, As a Corporate Partner – for a minimum of Tel ______Email______• Care for the Peak District environment and its £500 you will receive all of the above plus: surrounding areas, • One full page advert in Peakland Guardian per If the membership is a gift, please provide the details of the member • Celebrate the Peak District in our everyday year (could be 2x half pages) Name(s) ______activities. • A members’ offer in the monthly e-newsletter, Address ______If you know or own a business who agrees with once per year us, please ask them to support our work. We need ______Postcode______Tel ______Email______

Please make cheques payable to Friends of the Peak District and send to us at 37 Stafford Road, Peak Pound Partnership Sheffield, S2 2SF. Or pay by direct debit With the support of businesses, the Peak Pound Partnership scheme P Instructions to your bank or building society to pay by direct debit helps to raise funds for our work protecting and enhancing the Peak I would like to pay £ ______to Friends of the Peak District Monthly Annually District landscape and supporting rural communities. £P Name of account holder(s)______The Peak Pound Partnership encourages visitors to Charity products: if you have the right premises, Bank/Building Society account Sort code the Peak District to add an extra £1 to their bill, as you could sell Friends of the Peak District postcards a donation to support Friends of the Peak District and fridge magnets. which means that businesses and their customers Sponsored products: sponsor a specific product, Name and postal address of your bank or building society are helping to look after the Peak District. for example one option on your menu, and donate To: the manager ______Bank / Building Society There’s no cost to your business and no £1 to us for every one you sell. minimum payment so it’s easy to support the To make signing up to the Peak Pound Partnership Address: ______scheme in the way that suits best… as easy as possible for you, we can send you the ______Postcode: ______Opt out: add £1 to your customer’s bill, with the relevant text for your invoices or bills so that your option to ‘opt out’ of the payment, by ticking a box. customers can tick a confirmation of their £1 Originator’s Identification Number: 5 9 9 7 0 5 Opt in: create a tick box on your website asking donation. We can also provide you with a special your customers if they would like to add £1 to their logo so that you can promote your support of Reference number: bill as a donation. Friends of the Peak District, the local environment Collection boxes: we have lots of collection and the Peak Pound Partnership to your customers Instruction to your bank or building society Please pay Friends of the Peak District from the account detailed in this instruction, subject to the safeguards assured by the Direct boxes and you’re very welcome to have one to and potential customers on your website. Debit Guarantee. I understand that this instruction may remain with Friends of the Peak District and, if so, details will be passé don display on your premises. Contact Julie at [email protected] or electronically to my Bank/Building Society call 0114 266 5822 Signature(s) ______Date______22 Peaklandguardian Peaklandguardian 23 A: Victoria Hall, 37 Stafford Road, Sheffield, S2 2SF T: 0114 279 2655 E: [email protected] W: www.friendsofthepeak.org.uk