Blueprint to protect a much-loved moorland

The close proximity of Burbage, Houndkirk and Hathersage Moors to Sheffield, which covers an area of around four square miles, makes it one of the most popular for outdoor recreation in the Peak District National Park.

Sheffield Council has owned the moors which have been loved by generation after generation since the 1920s but now the authority is considering leasing the landscape for 25 years to the National Trust and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB).

Ted Talbot, countryside manager for the National Trust in the Peak District, said: “Burbage, Houndkirk and Hathersage moors really are special places and we look forward to keeping them that way.”

Coun Isobel Bowler, the council’s cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said: “We are fortunate to have this superb natural landscape on our doorstep.

“It is entrusted to our care for future generations and it is our responsibility to ensure that it is managed sustainably as well as ensuring it remains a great recreational asset.

“This new lease agreement with the National Trust and RSPB allows these groups to plan the management and bring investment into this sensitive area over a longer time-scale, using their extensive expertise and resources.”

Those behind the project argue it will make it easier to access grants for biodiversity improvements and conservation work on key habitats and archaeological features. However a report prepared for the council’s cabinet says while the vast majority were supportive of the plans concern has been raised there will not be the same level of public scrutiny if the lease goes ahead.

However council officers say in a report to members of the council’s cabinet, which meets on Wednesday, that the plans offer the chance for more public engagement.

For the last five years, the moorland has been let to the National Trust, which manages the land on a temporary basis. However, officers say this short-term tenancy arrangement is not ideal when trying to deliver long-term land management, therefore members are being urged to back the lease plans.

If agreed it is planned the new partnership will be able to tap into grants for biodiversity improvements, conservation work on key habitats and archaeological features and other improvements.

New staff and volunteers would be recruited and forums would be developed, to encourage groups and the local community in the delivery of a new management plan.

If the plans are backed, the management plan would be updated every five years, to ensure it is improved by the city council.

Mr Talbot added: “Our natural environment is increasingly under pressure and the National Trust believes we need to meet these challenges both nationally and locally.

“On these ancient and dramatic moorlands above Sheffield we will do this by working in partnership and engaging people to help.

“Wildlife will benefit from the expertise we can bring in, conservation work and visitors will benefit from simple things such as footpaths and bridleways that join up and are looked after, as well as guided walks and events.”