Dales 2011
A newspaper for the residents of the Yorkshire Dales National Park Autumn 2011 Changing times The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority budget is being communities have experienced this with proposals cut by a third over the next four years. With less money and affecting schools, libraries, tourist information centres fewer resources the organisation must embrace a new spirit of and public transport. partnership to keep important services going, say Chief There is some danger of this doom and gloom becoming Executive David Butterworth and Chairman Carl Lis. endemic. However, if the Authority is to prosper and The last year has been extremely difficult for the National continue to make a positive contribution to peoples' Park Authority, certainly the most difficult since it was experience of the National Park, it must meet the future created in 1997. with a bit of backbone and confidence. The impact of the Government's budget cuts, which took Although we took a 'big bang' approach and dealt with effect this financial year, has been severe. It has resulted in many of the cuts we have to make in year one, we still the scrapping of a number of our services and the face difficult decisions, including what to do with our reduction of many more. Eight work programmes, National Park Centres and public toilets which we cannot including education, events and public transport, have continue to run at the same level. Maintenance of David Butterworth, left, and Carl Lis at Dentdale Show in August. The been deleted. While there is a commitment to continue footpaths and bridleways is also likely to be hit. Dentdale Community Initiative is a pilot between the Authority and the some activity in these areas no budget has been allocated. local community, working towards shared objectives. However, the changes that we have undertaken have put Consequently, there has been a requirement for a major us on a solid footing and should enable us to achieve our provide. But for those activities that we continue to re-structure and 37 members of staff have left the target: a reduction in the size of the Authority and its undertake we will need to ensure they are delivered in organisation. activities by about a third by 2014/15. the best possible way. As you will be all too aware, this has taken place within This is a significant reduction and will be evident in the Culturally, this will be quite a shift. `Good enough' will the context of general public service cuts. Our local number - and, in some cases, the level - of services we have to do for some services but by paring down we can continue to strive for excellence in others. A smaller, leaner organisation should lead to a more focussed and personal service. Our centre page feature - 'Meet the team' - outlines that intention. 2020 vision builds The Yorkshire Dales has always had a set of resilient communities and many are looking at new and innovative ways of ensuring they continue to receive services, not just public services but those things which are considered on conservation success important to their long term viability. Populations of many threatened wildlife species are stable Our primary focus will remain on conservation and or improving in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, recreation. Nonetheless, this new spirit of working in thanks to a 10-year biodiversity plan - and in some cases partnership is one that we, and many other public bodies, this bucks the trend nationally. need to embrace on a much greater scale. The skill will be As well as animals, a number of plants and habitats are in managing these new relationships, and the expectations also doing well, due to the Local Biodiversity Action Plan they create, during a time of considerably less cash and (LBAP) which has guided the work of local organisations, fewer resources. groups and individuals and lead to some highly effective Should we be successful, it will mean the continuance of collaborations over the last decade. service to some of the most remote communities in the Red squirrels (below) have increased their distribution country. We're up for the challenge! over a wider area, northern brown argus butterfly (right) populations - which are in decline nationally - have remained stable with no colonies lost, and we have undertaken a programme of juniper bush planting to A trends and status report published this summer Kids Quiz preserve this nationally threatened species. showed that over the last decade there has been major Can you spot how many progress in bringing some of the most important habitats Coordinated by conservation experts in the Authority times Ewe-nice the Sheep into positive management and the last full assessment and launched by umbrella body the Yorkshire Dales highlighted that 81% of declining species were now stable appears in this paper? Biodiversity Forum, the first LBAP in 2000 - 'Nature in or increasing. With the next one due in 2013 we hope the Dales' - identified a range of nationally and regionally this trend will continue. Answer on back page. important habitats and species in the National Park that were at risk, and set out the work needed to protect Adrian Shepherd, Head of Land Management, said: "This them. is great news and highlights how beneficial the LBAP has been to the conservation of biodiversity in the National Park. It is a real testimony to the work done over the last 10 years by landowners, farmers and other agencies In this edition in delivering partnership projects." Despite these successes, there is still much to do and the Support for tourism businesses - p2 conservation actions for the next decade are set out in the new LBAP - '2020 Vision'. Making a splash: hydro schemes And you can play a part. We are asking for volunteers to help with survey and monitoring work. You will receive mentoring launch - p3 and advice on methodologies. Look out for information on our website and in the local press. Apprentices
View ‘2020 Vision’ and the trends and status bridge gap - report on www.natureinthedales.org.uk p5 Page 2 Dales 2011 A charter for success Rural transport Businesses involved in tourism in the Dales will be aware that this year has seen some major changes in the organisations receives grant that promote it - including the end of the Yorkshire Dales & Harrogate Tourism Partnership. Recreation and Tourism A new grant of £1.1 million will be used to find long- Manager Mark Allum explains what role the National Park term solutions to rural transport problems, benefitting Authority will play. residents and visitors alike in the Yorkshire Dales. In 2008, the National Park and Nidderdale Area of The Department of Transport award has been made to Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) were jointly the Dales Integrated Transport Alliance (DITA), a awarded the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism. partnership of over 50 local organisations, including the This internationally-recognised award is given to National Park Authority. protected areas that support tourism that contributes to social and economic development while preserving the Over the next four years DITA hopes to specify, secure area's natural and cultural resources. and promote an agreed network of demand-led, public and community transport services in the Dales. As part of this, we are looking to support tourism businesses, particularly around areas such as reducing The money will fund packages that address area-specific energy costs, providing information on local walks and The Devonshire Arms at Bolton Abbey runs its vehicles on biofuel and produces its own vegetables, and has made savings of nearly £20,000 problems and cut carbon emissions whilst supporting cycle rides, how to source local food and making use of per year. economic growth. It will not be used for subsidising those distinctive Dales characteristics that make a visit currently funded bus services. really memorable. Members will receive newsletters and the opportunity to find out what others are doing and take part in training The heart of DITA's approach is to understand needs Working with Susan Briggs of marketing company and events. It will be a way to reinforce links between and facilitate best choices, from cycling and walking to The Tourism Network, an informal and free-to-join businesses and organisations promoting the area, community buses and social car schemes. DITA will organisation has been established to bring businesses complementing, rather than duplicating, work being done begin by working with local communities and visitors to together - the Dales Tourism Business Network. by Welcome to Yorkshire (the official tourism agency) and find out their transport requirements based around key business associations in specific dales. 'hubs' in the Dales. It will audit the different ways that New accommodation listing We have started by putting four of our National Park transport is currently provided including school and health services. The Authority's annual newspaper for visitors to the Centres through the Green Tourism Business Award National Park will feature an accommodation listing for Scheme. They picked up either bronze or silver, which is To find out more, visit www.dalesconnect.net the first time this year. great news, and the quality of our information provision was described as a strength. We still need to reduce our With its massive 200,000 circulation, The Visitor energy use and look at cleaning products and paper 2012 is an ideal opportunity for accommodation wastage, so the Centres' sustainability will continue to providers to get advertising exposure to visitors and develop and we hope to pass on what we learn to other potential visitors to this beautiful area. Dales businesses. And it could prove key in promoting your business - especially in the absence of the Yorkshire Dales If you are a local tourism business or food Accommodation Guide which the former Yorkshire producer which has links to or benefits from being Dales & Harrogate Tourism Partnership produced. in or near the National Park or AONB and you would like to get involved with the Dales Tourism Business The look of the new section will be familiar, following Network, visit www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/ that of the Guide. sustainabletourism For an advertising rate card, please contact Sheila Ward at Bow House on 01347 821928. The deadline for short-stay drivers, with the two- enhance the special qualities of this booking a spot in the new listing - or placing an ad in hour parking fee increasing from beautiful area. the newspaper generally - is the end of October. Car parking £2.20 to £2.50 - the first rise for Weekly passes provided in four years - and the all-day charge conjunction with Richmondshire rising from £3.50 to £4.00. charges frozen District Council (RDC) that can be The National Park Authority has frozen The 10-minute, free, quick stop bays used in all National Park and RDC the cost of resident parking in its car in all car parks will remain. car parks have increased from £10 to £12 - the first rise in three years. parks for the next financial year. "The Authority has held most of its The annual permit - costing £30 - car park charges over the can be obtained from our past four years" says Grassington and Bainbridge offices Director of Park Services or from National Park Centres and is Kathryn Beardmore, "but, valid from 1 April to 31 March. unfortunately, the recent increase in VAT and other Also unchanged are the Business financial pressures mean Pass (for businesses without on-site that we have now had to parking) and Accommodation Pass increase some." (for accommodation providers that don't have enough parking spaces) Car park revenue which remain at £70 per annum. contributes to the up-keep of the National Park and There has been a small increase for our work to conserve and Grassington car park
Find out more about the work of the Authority at www.yorkshiredales.org.uk Page 3 Dales 2011 Renewable energy Making a splash in the Dales Local hydropower schemes are guide launched providing a blueprint for energy production in the Dales. A new guide is described as a 'must' for anyone wanting to install renewable energy equipment in The River Bain Hydro Project is buildings in the National Park. owned and run by members of the Bainbridge community. Its eight- It contains advice on the kit and installation methods and-a-half tonne Archimedean that will have the least impact on the area's special screw became operational in May. qualities - while helping people produce green energy It will provide enough green and reduce their carbon footprint. energy for 50 households, saving 'A Developer's and Householder's Guide to Energy 3,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide Production in the Yorkshire Dales National Park' every year and raising funds to focuses on the range of technologies available to meet plough back into community national CO2 emission targets, from solar panels and projects which further mitigate double and secondary glazing to hydropower equipment the effects of climate change. and ground, air and water source heat pumps. The scheme was funded by wide It offers help and encouragement whether people want take-up of a share offer, along to adapt existing properties to improve their with grants from CO2Sense and sustainability, ensure that the sustainability of new the National Park Authority, plus buildings is enhanced, or produce renewable energy, a bank loan. both for profit and to help reduce national reliance on It is the culmination of years of increasingly expensive fossil fuels. work by a team of dedicated Richard environmental entrepreneurs, The River Bain Hydro Project (above) and Halton Gill scheme (below) are helping pioneer hydropower Graham, Head keen to use the natural resources in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. of Development of a beautiful area of the country. inlet pipe and fed to a small turbine housed in a small Management, A new 40kw micro traditional stone building 100 metres below. The scheme said: "Small- scheme at Halton Gill in will generate enough energy for 20-25 households. scale schemes Littondale, completed can be of The Dales has a long history of harnessing water power by Betsy and Robert particular for traditional industries and many villages operated their Bell of the Langcliffe benefit to own electricity schemes in the early 1900s. Hall Estate, provides an isolated rural Wind turbine, Birkdale alternative source of Electricity production is soon to return to one such site communities - income that is at Linton Falls in Wharfedale. especially for properties that don't have a gas supply or extremely long-lasting connection to the electricity grid. JN Bentley Ltd has restored the original 100-year old with low maintenance turbine house (a Scheduled Monument) and installed two "The document is adopted supplementary planning and running costs for Archimedean screws on this small weir. The 100kw guidance, guiding decisions on applications for this upland farm. turbine will generate energy equivalent to that required to renewables. We would therefore encourage people to Water from the valley power 90 homes for a year. use it to frame their proposals before applying for above is captured in an permission." In 2009 the Authority commissioned a study of 49 possible sites across the National Park. It concluded that More than 25 land managers have already found out the area has huge potential for small-scale hydro schemes more at an event organised by the Authority and Cash help for green ideas which produce an income for Yorkshire Dales Farmer Network at two National the landowner and contribute Trust farms, and another will be held later this year. Fantastic green ideas that benefit the National Park and its communities are becoming a reality with Authority towards a local supply of Adrian Shepherd, Head of Land Management, said: "We funding. energy from renewable wanted to show working examples of small-scale wind sources. turbines, micro-hydropower equipment and solar The Sustainable Development Fund - managed on our Grants to assist feasibility photovoltaic panels installed on farms which are not on behalf by Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust - supports studies for hydro projects is the mains grid and therefore need to generate their new business ideas, community schemes and available from the Authority own electricity. environmental projects that demonstrate ways of living and working more sustainably. until 2013 - for details visit "We would like to encourage more take-up. It would www.yorkshiredales. also allow farmers to take advantage of the Next year will mark its tenth year of operation and, to org.uk/renewables- Government's Feed-in Tariffs - the financial incentive date, more than £1.7 million has been awarded to 156 grants paid to producers of renewable energy who feed the projects. excess they generate into the National Grid." Anyone wanting application forms and further details Visit www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/ should contact Gillian Muir on 015242 51002 or energyproductionguide [email protected]
John Blenkiron NIDDERDALE SHOW Masham & Sons Ltd Bewerley Park, Pateley Bridge Sheep Fair FUNERAL DIRECTORS Monday, 19th September 2011 Saturday 24 & Sunday 25 t 1SJWBUF3FTU3PPNT Classes for Cattle, Sheep, Pigs, Goats and Horses, Fur & Feather, Dry September 2011 t 5SBJOFE1SPGFTTJPOBM4UBČ Stone Walling, Walking Sticks, Horticulture, Produce & Handicrafts, t #FTQPLF5BJMPSFE1BMM#FBSFST Dog Show and Sheep Dog Trials, Terrier Racing, Show Jumping, Trade Sheep Show, Sheep t -VYVSZ-JNPVTJOFT Stands, Food and Craft Marquees, Cricket Match, Brass Bands Racing, Craft Market, t 'MPSBM5SJCVUFT t (PMEFO$IBSUFS'VOFSBM1MBOT YE OLDE REDTAIL FALCONRY DISPLAY Fleece Stalls, Wool Competition, Sheep Independent Family Run For further details contact the Show Secretary: Dog Demonstrations, Funeral Directors Mrs S Monk 01969 650129 RICHMOND Old Time Children’s 01748 850033 www.nidderdaleshow.co.uk Fair, Morris Dancers LEYBURN E-mail: [email protected] and much, much 01969 625048 ‘A traditional Dales Agricultural Show’ more www.blenkironfunerals.co.uk 7JDUPSJB)PVTFt2VFFOT3PBE For further information visit 3JDINPOEt%-"+ www.mashamsheepfair.com Caring for you day and night Follow us at www.facebook.com/yorkshiredales and www.twitter.com/yorkshire_dales Page 4 Dales 2011 What's happening in your area: worki North West With the National Park Management Plan as a starting point, we have agreed actions to seek to achieve together. Meet the A pilot project in Cumbria is looking at how local This will be in areas such as climate change and 'green' communities can help us achieve our statutory tourism. purposes - as well as how we could help deliver their aims and aspirations, too. Chief Executive David Butterworth said: "Our relationship with local communities is at the core of much of our work The Dent Community Initiative began with Authority staff going forward." attending parish meetings to discuss common goals, and has generated enthusiasm and a creative approach on both sides.
teamGovernment cuts have meant a reduction in the Area ranger contact details Swaledale services we can provide, but we will continue to Michael Briggs deliver those we do in the best way we can. Our Upper Wensleydale 01748 884060 focus will remain on conservation and recreation. Matt Neale Highlighted here are some of the services we offer 01969 666220 to residents.
Rangers have an important part to play in looking after the National Park, protecting the environment and maintaining rights of way. Based in the areas for which they are responsible, they are easily available as a point of Lower Wensleydale contact between residents, visitors and the Authority. Nigel Metcalfe 01969 662912 To discuss footpath issues, damaged bridges, dangerous Cumbria animals or community projects, or if you have any Paul Wilkinson questions about our work, see the map for contact details. 015396 22081 Yorkshire Dales National Park Planning ensures that new building developments are well designed and carefully sited, adding to the quality of the natural environment and built heritage. Our free planning surgeries allow you to get detailed Upper Wharfedale information and help from a qualified planner on Three Peaks Iain Mann everything from making a planning application to Steve Hastie 01756 751631 installing renewable energy technologies: 01729 825242 Southern Area Team (Craven) Every Thursday, 10-12pm, Grassington office. Book an appointment on 01969 652350. Pennine Way Ranger Northern Area Team (Richmondshire & South Lakeland) Colin Chick Lower Wharfedale Fortnightly on a Wednesday, 2-4pm, Bainbridge 01729 825196 Phil Richards office and Sedbergh Community Office. 01756 751652 Fortnightly on a Thursday, 2-4pm, Pennine Bridleway Malhamdale & Lower Hudson House, Reeth. Officer Ribblesdale Book an appointment on 01969 652349. Peter Lambert Cat Kilner 0300 456 0030 01729 833203 We have a range of services that will help you manage your land in a way that will benefit the South West environment and your business. A Pen-y-ghent footpath has won €30,000 for vital The Farm and Countryside Service provide repairs from an international fund, thanks to a help and advice on the grants available and how to successful bid by Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust. apply for them. They can assist with all aspects of Readers of Trail and Country Walking magazines were the Environmental Stewardship Scheme including asked to pick 10 winners from 66 international compiling applications. Their work extends into nominations to share cash from the European Catchment Sensitive Farming advice as well as farm- Outdoor Conservation Association. And one of the based sustainable energy production. Contact them 10 was the Three Peaks bid to help the area’s fragile on 01756 751654 or [email protected] eco-system. New woodlands provide wildlife habitats, shelter for The work will be carried out as part of the stock and make it easier to manage land - the Trees Authority's Three Peaks Project which encourages and Woodlands Team is putting a call out to the public's help in conserving an area that receives landowners interested in planting trees and 250,000 visitors each year. substantial grants are available. The team provides Much of the route is on a sustainable walking surface planting and management advice, works closely with but the High Birkwith section had become badly the Forestry Commission and Yorwoods to access worn, causing significant damage to internationally- funding, and can help with management plans and important peat habitat. finding suitable contractors. Contact them on 0300 Steve Hastie, Three Peaks Manager, said: "This 456 0030 or [email protected] welcome funding means we can develop the The Historic Environment Team can help alternative route over Whitber Hill while the eroded farmers and landowners deal with archaeology in the section allowed to revegetate. planning process, manage historic features on their "When finished, we will - for the first time - have a land, and source grants. They also look after the sustainable circuit for those wishing to do the classic Historic Environment Record, a database of all Three Peaks Challenge - but we are asking visitors recorded archeological sites and historic features, to continue to think about how they use the area which is available to the public. Contact them on and the stresses on it." 0300 456 0030 or [email protected]
Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, Yoredale, Bainbridge, Leyburn, North Page 5 Dales 2011 ng in partnership Training the next generation North East Members of the Ragged Robin Conservation Group have built their own 'Great Wall of Swaledale' using 30 tonnes of stone to stop a well-worn path falling into the river. of countryside managers Two apprentices are learning key countryside "It's going great - it's Michael Briggs, Area Ranger for Swaledale, said: "To lose management skills while helping to maintain the good to work with paths like this one in Healaugh to erosion can have a huge important landscape and heritage features of the very experienced impact on people's enjoyment of the area. National Park. people and gain "This type of revetment work was chosen over willow qualifications that will Josh Hull and James Firth (both 21) are undertaking a spiling - embedding willow shoots into the river bank to help us move on two year internship, at the end of which it is hoped they form a natural defence - because of the rabbit population. after." will be ideally placed for permanent jobs in the sector. The young stems would have been devoured before they James (pictured right) could establish. With practical work alongside experienced staff as well from Leyburn was as formal training, they are covering everything from "But it's expensive and takes many hours. In the current studying art but drystone walling and plant identification to chainsaw economic climate, Authority funding for this work will be decided it wasn't for felling and off-road driving. The pair most recently went difficult so it's important for landowners to keep on top him. Glad to return on a course to identify dangerous and dying trees. of rabbit problems." home to the The Dales Countryside Trainee Scheme was launched in The group works every week with the Area and Access countryside and 2010 by the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust (YDMT) Rangers in Swaledale and Lower Wensleydale, turning looking around for a and made possible through grants from the Yorkshire their hand to everything from coppicing to path more practical career Dales LEADER Programme, Rural Access to maintenance. he could still be Opportunities Programme and the National Park creative in, he came across the trainee scheme. Authority's Sustainable Development Fund. "I've acquired skills like operating chainsaws and driving Josh (pictured below), who lives in Settle, chose to join quad bikes and tractors. I've enjoyed my time here and the scheme instead of going to university. expect to learn much more in the remainder of my traineeship. I hope to keep working for an organisation "I took a year out as I was considering going into like the National Park." outdoor pursuits, which ties into my mountain biking - I'm a trained instructor. This came up, and I decided it Both were recently filmed for a new BBC series about was what I wanted to do, being outdoors and the people who are caring for the country's heritage, due to lifestyle it provides really. be broadcast in the New Year. Jo Boulter, Dales Countryside Trainee Scheme Co-ordinator, said: "It's becoming difficult to find people with the skills necessary for the long term care of our upland environment - and we're seeing a dramatic loss of 16-24 year olds as rural communities try to adapt to rapidly changing economics. "This scheme aims to meet the urgent needs of young people and to bridge the gap in local skills and knowledge." The Authority has long pioneered countryside apprenticeships, and Head of Ranger Services Alan Hulme - who played a key role in setting up the current South East programme - is delighted that the tradition is continuing There is still time to have your say on what you believe to with our latest trainees, describing Josh and James as be most historically or architecturally important about "real assets". two Wharfedale villages. Over the next two years, 12 young people are gaining Kettlewell and Starbotton are two of 37 Conservation valuable experience with a local employer while studying Areas in the National Park, both created in 1969. A for a Level 2 Qualification in Environmental Conservation Conservation Area Appraisal highlights what is so special at Craven College. about a place that it deserves this designation. Draft Other placements have been provided by Natural England, appraisals for Kettlewell (pictured below) and Starbotton The National Trust, Horton Landscaping, North Yorkshire have been prepared and we'd like to hear your views County Council, Swinton Estate, DTMS Ltd and Dinsdale because it is the opinions of the residents of these special Moorland Services - which currently employs James areas and those that know them best that count. Josh (above, centre) carries out some fencing repairs. James (top right) Holgate, who was one of our 2007 apprentices. Log on to www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/conservationarea- works on Haylands Footbridge in Hawes (below). appraisals to view a draft appraisal and fill out the feedback form by 2 October 2011. Paper copies are available at Lychgate House, Kettlewell (home of Craven District Councillor and Authority Member John Roberts) and at our Grassington and Bainbridge offices.
h Yorkshire DL8 3EL. Call 0300 456 0030 or email [email protected] Page 6 Dales 2011
Authority halves emissions Carbon emissions from buildings and vehicles owned by Communities go green the National Park Authority have been almost halved Communities are taking collective action to reduce their over the last five years. energy use and save money with the help of the Yorkshire And the Authority has cut its costs by nearly Dales 'Green Communities' Project. £60,000 a year in the same period. "By using less energy, residents reduce their carbon In 2005/06 our emissions were 701 tonnes of footprint - and their fuel bills - so it's a win-win situation", CO and in 2010/11 they stood at 385 tonnes - a explains Project Officer, Jill Armstrong, who is based at 2 reduction of 45%, substantially beating the target we the National Park Authority's office in Bainbridge. set ourselves of 25% by March 2013. "These 'green communities' are combating higher fuel In 2007 the Authority signed up to the Nottingham costs - which they incur due to being off mains gas - as Declaration, committing to ensuring that tackling well as looking at insulation measures for stone-built climate change was a cornerstone of its work. properties. They are also successfully installing renewable technologies, such as solar panels, onto Dales' homes We have installed a ground source heat pump in our whilst preserving the character of the area." Bainbridge office and a biomass (wood-fuelled) heating boiler in Grassington. Other projects include energy saving improvements to buildings and fewer and lower- What are people doing? emission vehicles in the Authority's fleet. Staff mileage has also been cut by a fifth. 'Greener Together' - Grassington & Threshfield's Oil Clubs are popping For more information, As recognition of the Authority's work, the National Green Communities Group - held a Sustainable Energy up all over the Dales, contact Jill on 01969 Park Centres have been accredited by the Green Day which attracted those with homes with hard to with residents bulk 652391 or jill.armstrong@ Tourism Business Scheme, and the biomass boiler won treat unfilled stone cavity walls. buying their heating oil energypartnership.org.uk first place in the public building installation category of in order to get a Usually constructed from 1980 to 1990, the walls The Green Communities the Yorkshire and Humber Microgeneration discounted price from Partnership awards in 2010. cannot be filled with conventional insulation. Project is funded by the suppliers. Yorkshire Energy Partnership has teamed up with Yorkshire Dales Find out more at www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/ Polypearl Ltd to pilot a solution using tiny beads of As well as cost savings, LEADER programme, climatechange polystyrene. This will be offered to a limited number householders benefit made available through of households in Grassington and Threshfield at a from fewer tankers the Rural Development significantly reduced price with the hope it can be squeezing along small Programme for England made more widely available in future. rural roads - fewer miles which is jointly funded Interested? Contact the Yorkshire Energy means less carbon by Defra and the Partnership on 01904 554406. emissions too. European Union.
Home energy costs can be significantly reduced by generating your own Local biodiversity electricity. Installing solar panels on an unshaded, south-facing, ideas take root pitched roof means that If you have a patch of land or the seed of an idea, why not join homeowners can claim the Parish Wildlife Project - Mark Hewitt, Wildlife Conservation the Government's Feed- Officer, tells us more. in Tariff payments - as long as the installer and This National Park-wide scheme supports residents who products have been want to put together their own projects that benefit local accredited under The wildlife and habitats. for. The Linton group have carried out surveys of the Micro-Generation We can offer specialist advice, help in running activities, woodland they are looking after as part of the project, Certification Scheme. and put people and projects in touch with each other. with enthusiastic support from local children. The National Park This spring and summer we have received a good number In Dentdale, the Cowgill Community Orchard group Authority has produced of enquiries, from Castle Bolton to Linton. Some will (pictured below) have cleared and prepared their ground a guide which contains probably only require a bit of guidance whereas others will and sown a wildflower mix reflecting the local meadows in helpful advice on need grants and more in depth assistance - projects are order to create a rich grassland beneath the hardy trees renewable technologies already up and running in Malhamdale, Ribblesdale, they've also planted. (see page 3). Planning Wharfedale and Dentdale. If you have the land but lack confidence or equipment, or permission is often not are keen to get involved but don't have a site, maybe we required but you should Summer tends to be the time to get to know what's can help. Email [email protected] or always check first. growing in your local area and on the site you have plans call 01756 751627.
The Land & Property Specialists
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Find out more about the work of the Authority at www.yorkshiredales.org.uk Page 7 Dales 2011 Go Dales! Access all areas An action-packed project that introduced young people by Meghann Hull, Robin just smiled knowingly and replied: "Let's just go to outdoor adventure has been even more successful Access Development Officer check it out, shall we?" than we hoped. Public access is at the very heart of the I didn't take much convincing as this gave me an excuse to For the last three years, the National Park Authority has Yorkshire Dales National Park - we get out on my bike, so I kept my doubts to myself as I been running Go Dales!, a programme which aimed to believe that everyone should be able to pedalled alongside Robin on his Tramper. I felt sure we encourage 14-25 year olds into a lifetime of being active enjoy this beautiful landscape, no matter would be returning to the car within the hour. How and develop the love of the Dales that we all share. what their level of ability. wrong I was. Before I knew it, we were past the most And 537 have taken part in over 1,500 activity sessions challenging part of the route and admiring the view across Every summer, members of the Disabled Ramblers visit since 2009 - far more than expected. Malham Tarn. for an organised roam using all-terrain, electric Even more impressive is the fact that over half were wheelchairs called 'Trampers' that are capable of travelling Even when his front wheel fell off half way along the young women, whereas most outdoor activities tend over rough ground and steep hills. route, it was just a matter of getting out the tools and not to have high levels of females taking part. parts and off we went again. These motorised buggies allow people with limited mobility to access parts of the countryside that would Robin showed me that, despite the challenges he faces, normally be inaccessible to them, giving them the with a bit of determination there really is no stopping him independence and freedom to experience the special and others from enjoying the same special places in the qualities of the National Park - an ability that non-disabled National Park that I do. people can easily take for granted. This really struck home when I joined a group as they left Kilnsey for Malham Moor in July. With the support of partners, Authority staff and Dales Volunteers, the 25 took on the notorious challenge of the rocky ascent of Mastiles Lane. New member Roy told me that the trip had allowed him Participants could enjoy a wide range of sports, to reach places where previously a mountain bike would including geocaching, climbing, canoeing, caving and have carried him and said it was "a tremendous feeling". horse riding. Rather than trying a bit of everything they were asked to pick one activity and stick with it, And, after negotiating a particularly craggy section, one meaning they had the opportunity to develop their lady turned to me with a look of exhilaration on her face skills and confidence. This helped them take their and said: "This tramper has been a lifeline for me." chosen activity forward on their own beyond the I was also fortunate enough to spend a day with Robin lifespan of the project, an important objective, as was Helby (pictured front right) - Chair of the Disabled introductions to relevant clubs. Ramblers and a key figure in the birth of the Tramper - Some have now spread their new-found enthusiasm on to exploring possible routes for next year's visit. friends and are inspiring others in their local communities. Robin was particularly keen on the 16km Settle Loop, The project was funded by the National Park Authority part of the Pennine Bridleway. As a mountain biker I had and Sport England, and run with the support of Craven cycled the route many times and was more than aware of and Richmondshire District Councils, North the difficult and steep terrain on Stockdale Lane. Yorkshire Sport, The British Canoe Union and British Mountaineering Council. A free smartphone app National Park Authority, packed full of walking, it is available for iPhone, New pocket cycling and mountain biking Android and Blackberry routes as well as useful platforms. information has been The app has been paid for created for the Yorkshire digital guide by the Go Dales! project Dales National Park. and can be downloaded at Believed to be the first of www.godales.org.uk/ to the Dales its kind produced by a UK go-mobile
HAMBLETON AND RICHMONDSHIRE COMMUNITY CAR SCHEME VOLUNTEER DRIVERS NEEDED We are seeking new volunteer drivers to provide transport to people who are unable to use public transport due to disability, age or where they live. Volunteers use their own vehicles and are paid a mileage allowance of 45p per mile. Thinking Of Selling If you have a car, some spare time and a willingness to help others living in rural areas, contact John Atkins at Your Property Call Us Richmondshire CVS & Volunteer Centre for more information. Today For A FREE Tel: (01748) 822537 Email: [email protected] Market Appraisal 01969 622800 Marwood House, Railway Street, Leyburn
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Win a Christmas hamper from Kettlewell Village Store! What do you think of our website? 6. Overall, how satisfied are you with Plans set Park vision Complete and return the questionnaire the Yorkshire Dales National Park by 30 November 2011 and the first name website? drawn on 1 December 2011 will win a Very poor luxury local hamper worth £50 - it's as simple as that! Poor Your responses will help us plan, organise Quite poor and improve the information and services OK we provide for residents on our website Excellent www.yorkshiredales.org.uk Why? ...... 1. Thinking about the information and ...... services you access from the National Park Authority, do you (tick all that 7. Different people may be interested in apply): different online services about the National Park. To help plan these Look online to find them in the first please tell us if you (tick all that instance apply): Look online if you have a link to live in the National Park - do you: follow own rent Keeping the special environment of the National Park special: Barden Moor (above) and stone outbuilding in Muker (below). Contact someone and maybe look holiday here online later own land here Work on preparing two critical plans for the content of both plans - look out for Only look online if there are no the National Park will start this autumn. more details soon. act as a land agent in the area alternatives The new National Park Management Plan The current NPMP can be viewed at farm here Prefer to talk to someone (NPMP) will set out a vision for the www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/ run a business here - is it a tourism National Park over the next 20 to 30 yorkshire_dales_national_park_ Never look online business yes no years, as well as more detailed objectives management_plan Other (please expand): ...... for looking after its special qualities in and the Local Plan at work here ...... ways that help to support local www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/ are interested in conservation and communities and the local economy. localplan 2. What information or services have biodiversity The Core Strategy for you accessed online? ...... Ewe-nice appears 10 times in Dales autumn 2011 planning - which replaces the ...... are interested in recreational Local Plan - will set out the ...... opportunities policies that will guide new 3. What information or services would 8. Please indicate your age group building and land development you like to access online? ...... 16-24 years 25-34 years in the National Park to help to achieve the objectives in ...... ...... 35-44 years 45-54 years the NPMP. 55-64 years 65-74 years 4. How often do you use our website? The Authority and its 75+ years partners will be undertaking Never wide consultation and Please complete and return this form Once a month engagement with local along with the questionnaire so we can residents and businesses on Once a week enter you into the prize draw. Several times a week Name ...... Every day Address ...... 5. What do you think we should do on ...... the website to develop content that supports you or your business? Postcode ...... Return to: ...... Dales autumn 2011 Prize Draw, Yorkshire Dales National Park Terms & Conditions Authority, FREEPOST BD 625, No alternative prize is available. Entries to be received by 30 November 2011 for inclusion in the Grassington, Skipton BD23 1BR prize draw. The draw will take place on 1 December Further feedback or questions to 2011. Entrants must be 18 or over. Please note that your name and address will not be used for [email protected] or any future mailings by us or any third party. 01756 751640. COATINGS LIMITED Traditional, Contemporary, Classic or Chic. Incorporating cast iron radiators within your design will add elegance and style to any room. Housing plan moves forward Castironrads: The largest cast iron radiator company in the UK. The Authority's review of housing policy in It is anticipated that Members will t 0SJHJOBMDBTUJSPOSBEJBUPST the National Park is set to be approved for accept the Group's recommendations at t 3FQSPEVDUJPOSBEJBUPSTEJSFDUGSPNPVSGPVOESZ t "GVMMSBOHFPGQFSJPETUZMF7BMWFT'JUUJOHT submission to the Government's Planning the September Authority meeting and the t 3FTUPSBUJPOTFSWJDFBWBJMBCMF 41&$*"-*454*/463'"$&13&1"3"5*0/"/%$0"5*/(4 Inspector. Plan will be formally submitted to the '30.4."--$0.10/&/51"354507&)*$-&$)"44*4 Inspector for examination by early 2012. The final round of consultation this spring on COATING SPECIALISTS BLAST CLEANING SERVICES the new Housing Development Plan drew The Inspector will decide whether it has t 1PXEFS$PBUJOH 200 representations by 100 consultees. been properly prepared and its policies and t 5FøPO$PBUJOH t %SZ#MBTUJOH Objections to the 32 new suggested proposals are backed by sufficient t /ZMPO$PBUJOH t "RVB#MBTUJOH housing sites were considered by the evidence, and the completed report is t 9ZMBO$PBUJOH t .PCJMF#MBTUDMFBOJOH Authority's Housing Working Group. expected by next spring. t 4UFFM *SPOPS"MMPZ t (SJU TIPU CFBE components The Group is not recommending any If the Plan is considered sound it will be further changes to the list of sites, but is adopted and the Authority will then start 5IF4BXNJMMTt8FTU5BOöFMEt3JQPOt/PSUI:PSLTIJSFt)(+6t5FM supporting a number of amendments to work on a much wider review of planning www.castironrads.co.uk www.rnrpowdercoatings.co.uk the proposed new housing policies. policy across the National Park. [email protected] SOSDPBUJOHT!MJWFDPVL Find out more about the work of the Authority at www.yorkshiredales.org.uk