Protection for medieval field system

CONSERVATION officers have launched a consultation which could help preserve a medieval agricultural system which surrounds a village in the Peak District.

According to specialists, the strip-farming system is particularly well preserved in fields around Monyash, but does not currently have protected status.

Other parts of the village are a conservation area, meaning they are subject to strict control, and the Peak Park Authority wants to extend this to the fields.

Cultural heritage manager Ken Smith said: “This pattern of medieval strip fields, defined by later drystone walls, is particularly well-preserved and one of the most distinctive features of Monyash.

“The field-system links the village to the landscape and is of key significance to the village’s historic character - we believe it fully merits conservation.”

Monyash developed as a farming community, at a crossroads, with a triangular market-place at the centre. From the 14th to 19th centuries it also became an important administrative centre for lead mining in the High Peak.

Villagers and other interested parties have been asked to comment on the plan before it can be implemented.