Budget cuts may force Peak District sale of popular climbing and walking area

Already, the Peak District National Park Authority has leased its largest estate, the Eastern Moors, to a partnership of the National Trust and RSPB and also agreed to sell Losehill Hall, its education centre in Castleton, to the Youth Hostel Association.

Now, bosses are looking at leasing or selling Stanage Edge and the surrounding North Lees estate to a “like-minded body”.

Director of operations Richard Campen said: “We want to find organisations or individuals who could continue to look after the special environment of Stanage and the North Lees estate and build on the good work we have already achieved.

“In the light of public spending cuts the authority is in the process of transferring several of its assets to other like-minded bodies who have a commitment to conservation, recreation and widening understanding, but have more resources to invest than we do.

“Stanage Edge is held in high regard for its spectacular views, world-class climbing crags and rare wildlife. We are determined that any new partner would protect those aspects and continue to involve user groups and local people in its management.”