ld164 solway coast aonb management pland 2010-2015...geographical context solway coast area of...

Foreword 3

Geographical Context 3

Review Context 3

Overall Vision 3

Part One1.0 The Solway Coast AONB 4

1.1 An Introduction and Statement of Significance 4

1.2 The AONB in its Local and Regional Setting 5

1.3 Landscape Character 6

1.4 Purpose and Context 10

1.5 Governance, Monitoring and Reporting 11

1.6 Management Plan Themes, Visions, Objectives and Actions 13

Part Two2.1 Landscape 16

2.2 Natural Heritage 21

2.3 Cultural and Built Heritage 26

2.4 The Coast 29

2.5 Environmental Management 34

2.6 Climate Change and Renewable Energy 37

2.7 Tourism, Transport, Access and Recreation 40

2.8 Education and Awareness 45

2.9 Economy and Community 48

Part ThreeAPPENDICES

1. Facts and Figures 532. External Review Process 603. Summary of Main Issues 604. Acronyms 625. Glossary of Terms 626. Select Bibliography 647. Core Functions 658. IUCN Protected Areas and International Classification 659. Acknowledgements 66

Contents

3

Foreword

‘A shared responsibility for a very special place’ the Solway Coast AONB Management Plan

ForewordI am delighted and honouredto commend to you this farsighted vision and the farreaching strategies whichhave been developed torealise it, in cooperation with a partnership involving you all,individuals, volunteers, statutorybodies, towns, villages,landowners, schools and many special interest groups.We have all one thing incommon – a love for our Solway Coast andPlain which has beenhanded down to usfrom those who wentbefore, which we now hold in trust and which we intend to hand on to future generations, not onlyintact but enhanced, with the magic preserved and prosperity secured.

It is a fine vision, and it will take more than words to getthere but we now have the road map and I must pay tributeto all our friends and partners, to officers and volunteersand to all of you who attended meetings and returnedquestionnaires, and specifically to the Staff Unit for all theirenergy and dedication which has gone into the preparationof this statutory Management Plan for our Solway CoastArea of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

The collective wisdom of a multi talented Joint AdvisoryCommittee should ensure that this comprehensiveframework for action provides each one of us with themeans, the direction and the inspiration to play a realisticpart in making this vision a reality. We have a sharedresponsibility for the future of this very special place.

Bill Jefferson OBE

Geographical ContextSolway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is one of 49 AONBs in England, Wales and NorthernIreland. It is the only AONB that is fully within Cumbria, itlies in a narrow linear strip along the Solway Firth coastlinebetween Carlisle in the east and Maryport in the west andit covers an area of 115 sq km.

Review ContextThe Countryside and Rights of Way Act (2000) strengthenedprevious legislation (1949) making further provision for theprotection and enhancement of AONBs. It requires Local

Figure 1. Solway Coast AONB Map(c) Crown Copyright. All rights reserved. Licence Number 100019596,

courtesy of Cumbria County Council

Authorities to prepare, publish and review, every fiveyears, a Management Plan for AONBs in their area.This document presents the review of the 2004-2009 Management Plan undertaken and led by theSolway Coast AONB Staff Unit on behalf of theconstituent Local Authorities and with support fromNatural England.

The new plan will be subject to scrutiny throughboth a Strategic Environmental Assessment and,

where it affects European Nature Conservation sites,by a Habitats Regulations Assessment.

Overall VisionThis document drives the second stage (Part 2, 2009 -2014) in the delivery of a 30 year vision for thefuture restoration and prosperity of the Solway CoastAONB. That vision was signed up to by the AONBPartnership in 2004. The vision is confirmed by theAONB Partnership in this document taking our jointcommitment to 2014.

The Solway Coast AONB through active conservationand enhancement, is an exemplar of well planned andimplemented sustainable development. The wild andremote parts of the coastline are protected andenhanced to include open marshes, wetlands and duneareas. Traditional boundaries form a complex mosaicthroughout the farming hinterland, reinforcing historicfield patterns and supporting a sustainable farmingeconomy. The area’s wildlife is abundant and habitatshave been developed to reflect changes in climate andthe wild nature of the area. Marine protected areasacross the Solway Firth support a balanced estuarineecosystem. The natural beauty and abundant wildlifefound throughout the area have established the Solwayas the best eco destination in the north of Cumbria.

People living in and visiting the Solway understand,enjoy and help protect the area through a network ofinformation and trails. People move around through amatrix of quiet lanes and routes by foot and on bikes.Traditional farmsteads and villages are complementedby new eco buildings. Together they support a range of sustainable businesses that draw on and complement the special resources available in the area.Local services and high quality IT infrastructure supporta vibrant community. Small scale renewables thatcomplement the area’s special qualities are foundthroughout the area and the peatlands and mudflatsprovide a natural active carbon sink.

William (Bill) Jefferson

OBE, Chairman

4 ‘A shared responsibility for a very special place’ the Solway Coast AONB Management Plan

Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t O

ne

Part One1.0 The Solway Coast AONB

1.1 An Introduction and Statement of Significance

1.1.1 The Solway Coast AONB contains a unique mosaic ofcoastal and pastoral landscapes set among a wide and lowlying coastal plain and lying under the ever-changing dramaof the dominant sky. The landscape is further enriched bythe twice daily influence of the tide that in turn reveals therich birdlife which use the estuary all year round.

1.1.2 The area is steeped in heritage from archaeologicalevidence of the Stone Age, through to Roman remainsassociated with Hadrian’s Wall to the airfields of WWII.Today the area is home to 13,000 residents who both liveand work within the landscape and help maintain its uniquecultural identity.

1.1.3 The AONB lies on the southern edge of the SolwayFirth, a large intertidal estuary, which also forms the borderbetween England and Scotland. Designated in 1964, thearea is relatively unchanged in character and covers 115 sqkm following 59 km of coastline from the River Esk nearGretna and Carlisle to Maryport in west Cumbria.

1.1.4 The town of Silloth, with its surrounding industrialareas and golf course, sits at the heart of the AONB but isnot designated and splits the AONB into two parts.

1.1.5 The AONB is the statutory responsibility of AllerdaleBorough Council, Cumbria County Council and Carlisle CityCouncil.

1.1.6 The Solway Coast contains many locally, nationallyand internationally important features, some centring onlandscape and others on wildlife and heritage. Manyfeatures are protected by designations and collectively theyindicate the high value of the area and underpin the need toprotect and enhance it for future generations. A list oflandscape types and their significant features is produced inSection 1.3.3

1.1.7 The AONB contains areas of lowland raised mirewhich represent a significant proportion of the UK nationalresource.

1.1.8 Grazed saltmarshes are present in an unbroken

ribbon throughout the inner estuary area and, as such,are nationally important. They provide feeding androosting areas for ducks, geese and swans that over-winter on the estuary in internationally important numbers.Part of the AONB’s nationally rare natterjack toadpopulation uses the saltmarshes.

1.1.9 An almost unbroken tract of sand dunes, much of itdesignated a SSSI, forms the coastal fringe of thewestern section of the AONB.

1.1.10 Agriculture is the dominant type of landuse.Pasture for dairy, beef and lamb production, both asgrazing and grass silage, is the primary crop. Arableagriculture is confined to cereals with some rape andvegetables. Characteristic small fields with kested hedgessometimes associated with drainage ditches create amosaic pattern in the landscape.

1.1.11 Settlement character is extremely varied fromlinear villages with space between dwellings, as atBurgh by Sands, to closely assembled and attachedcottages and farms like those in Bowness on Solway.Some villages reflect their establishment or growthperiods where their architecture can be attributed tostyles; fine examples are the Georgian façade at PortCarlisle and Victorian buildings in Allonby. Thesecontrast starkly with Anthorn village and its Ministry ofDefence utilitarian style architecture. Building fabrics areboth local and imported and create a non-uniformcharacter within most settlements.

1.1.12 The area has a nationally significantarchaeological and historical resource, arguably the mostsignificant of which is the internationally designatedFrontiers of the Roman Empire - Hadrian’s Wall WorldHeritage Site. Other find-spots, features, buildings andclusters of sites are representative of Mesolithic andNeolithic settlement, the Bronze and Iron Ages, theRoman occupation and the Anglo-Scandinavian periodfollowed by the Norman Conquest and its associatedMonastic period, the Late Medieval, the IndustrialRevolution and finally WWII and its airfields.

5‘A shared responsibility for a very special place’ the Solway Coast AONB Management Plan

Managem

ent Plan P

art One

1.2 The AONB in its Local and Regional Setting

Figure 2. Landscape TypesSource: Solway Coast Landscape Assessment

Figure 3. North West Regional Context Map

AONB Boundary

Coastal Margin

Agricultural Land

Open sea & river channels

Mossland

Raised Peat Bog

Foreshore

Salt Marsh

Sand Dunes

Cliff Features

Improved Pasture & Arable Land

Rough Grazing

National Parks:

Lake District

Community Forests:

Red Rose Forest

The Mersey Forest

Yorkshire Dales

Peak District

AONB:

Arnside & Silverdale

Heritage Coast: St. Bees

National Trails

Hadrian’s Wall Path

Government Office Boundaries

County Boundaries

North Penines

Solway Coast

Forest of Bowland

Pennine Bridleway

Pennine Way

Based upon the Ordnance Survey mapping withthe permission of the Controller of Her Majesty’sStationery Office. Crown Copyright. Unauthorisedreproduction infringes Crown Copyright and maylead to prosecution or civil proceedings. NaturalEngland 100022021, 2010.

1.2.1 The North West of England Region consists ofCheshire, Lancashire, Merseyside, Greater Manchester andCumbria and covers an area of 14,170 sq km. The regioncontains three National Parks - parts of the Yorkshire Dalesand the Peak District and the whole of the Lake Districtmake up this resource. Four AONBs are also representedcomprising Forest of Bowland, Arnside and Silverdale andSolway Coast and a small part of North Pennines AONBwhich runs into Cumbria. Solway Coast AONB iscompletely in Cumbria and is around 15km from thenorthern boundary of the Lake District National Park. Intotal, protected landscapes cover 4,177 sq km or 29% ofthe region. Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site is contiguouswith Solway Coast AONB as it straddles its east to westcoast linear corridor. Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trailstretches 15km into the eastern end of the AONB fromBeaumont to Bowness on Solway where it begins/ends(see Figure 3).

1.2.2 The Solway Coast covers 115 sq km of the Cumbrianlandscape and over 5% of the northwest regional coastline.It lies within the boundaries of three Local Authoritiesnamely Allerdale Borough Council (88% of area), CumbriaCounty Council (100% of area) and Carlisle City Council(12% of area).

1.2.3 To the north lies Scotland, the international boundaryexisting as a set of map coordinates rather than a physicalfeature in the landscape.

1.3 Landscape Character1.3.1 The character of the Solway Coast AONB is theproduct of physical, ecological and human influences.The landscape has a strong unity of character which isgreatly influenced by the proximity of the sea, and yet hasconsiderable variation within it which creates localdiversity and distinctiveness. The landscape as a whole ischaracterised by coastal and estuarine features such asbeaches, sand dunes, saltmarshes and low cliffs;contrasting agricultural land and mosses; the diversity ofthe flora and fauna; and the typical settlements andbuildings.

Landscape Character Assessment (LCA)

1.3.2 In 1995 the Countryside Commission published ‘TheSolway Coast Landscape’ (CCP 478) on behalf of SolwayCoast AONB. Although the document is almost 15 yearsold, much of its content is still relevant and still adequatelyfulfils its primary role as a descriptive assessment. The keycharacteristics and landscape types with their spatialrelationships are described below.

1.3.3 In general, the most important landscape features ofthe area are as follows:

• Large flat expanses of coastal terrain

• The sky is a dominant feature

• Dynamic and large intertidal estuary

• Vast unbroken vistas across the estuary to Scotland

• Extensive areas of traditionally grazed saltmarsh

• Large but fragmented areas of lowland raised mire

• Long narrow linear tract of coastal sand dune and duneheath

• Large areas of exposed sand and mud with gravel

storm ridges and sandy beaches

• Culture of dairy, beef and sheep farming on mediumgrade improved grassland

• Small hedge bound fields with sunken lanes andnarrow roads

• Very scarce woodland cover

• Rich archaeological and historical heritage

• High levels of biodiversity associated with a widerange of intertidal, coastal and inland habitats

• Internationally important area for birdlife

Main Characteristics

1.3.4 Coastal Margin Landscapes – Location and KeyCharacteristics

Open sea and river channels

Location: Occurs throughout the coastal area, theeastern section has more channels and has finer depositsdue to the low energy tidal regime characteristic of theinner estuary. The western section has open sea and ismore characteristic of a traditional seaside landscapewith high wave and tidal energy providing movement oflarger sediments such as gravels.

• Low tide – extensive areas of exposed rippled sandflats and river channels, some overlain by rocky scaurbeds and reefs

• High tide - expanses of sea with a high sediment load(coloured brown)

Foreshore

• Exposed areas of pebble and gravel storm ridges,mud and sand flats, bedrock outcrops and boulderbeds or scaurs

Saltmarshes


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t O

ne

7

• Large areas of grazed grassland in defined vegetationzones due to the salt tolerance of the plantassemblages

• Domestic cattle and sheep graze the saltmarshes andprovide ideal conditions for wintering wildfowl tograze

• The rare natterjack toad occurs on Anthorn Marshand adjacent farmland

• Tidal creeks flood and drain the marsh and form adendritic pattern; some are man made and linear andprovide safe refuge for grazing stock

• Bridges made from stone and wood cross the largercreeks to provide access for grazing

• At the seaward edge the marshes erode by thecharacteristic chopping of turfs by wave action, orthey accrete by sediment build up and subsequentplant colonisation

• At the landward edge of almost all of the marshesremnant medieval salt working lagoons can be found

Sand dunes

• Mobile dunes form at the interface of the vegetatedshingle ridges by deposition of wind-blown sand

• Dune slacks contain some ephemeral freshwater pondsand pools

• Dune heath or heather dominated areas occur behindthe mobile dunes where acid soil conditions prevail dueto the underlying boulder clays

• Dune grasslands grow on the alkaline shelly sands andsoils and contain a rich variety of herb species andorchids

• The rare natterjack toad is resident throughout the dunesystem

Cliff features

• Erosion by the sea creates a series of low soft sedimentcliff features against the seaward edge of saltmarshesand sand dunes

1.3.5 Agricultural Landscapes – Location and KeyCharacteristics

Location: Occurs throughout the AONB behind thesaltmarshes and sand dunes and surrounding theraised mires or mosses

Landuse

• Dominated by medium to low grade pasture used for winterfodder (silage) and summer grazing

• Some arable exists, notably for cereals such as barley,latterly, maize and rape has been introduced to the mix

• There is a strong influence from the underlying soils someof which are sandy and calcareous and others which areacid derived from boulder clays and associated acidicsands. Alluvial soils surround river estuaries and peatysoils occur where land has been won from mires

• Whilst not a significant feature in the landscapeevidence exists for small fruit orchards associated withfarmsteads

Field patterns

• Characteristic small to moderate sized fields boundedby hedges and sometimes associated open ditches

Field boundaries and Ditches


Managem

ent Plan P

art One

• Hedgerows are not species rich and are dominatedby gorse, blackthorn and hawthorn

• Hedgerows are underpinned by characteristicmounds or kests some of which are protected fromerosion by the use of local cobbles and boulders

• Some in-hedge standard trees exist

• Most hedges and trees have a characteristic ‘wind-throw’ due to the prevailing winds

• A mixture of hedgerow management techniques existranging from mechanical flail cutting to traditionalNorth Cumberland Style hedge-laying

• The western sector has cobble walls, built frombeach material, in general, and as they decay theyare not being repaired

• Hedgerows and cobble walls are being lost to postand wire alternatives especially in the western sectorof the AONB

• Ditch profiles vary with some maintained mechanicallyand some by hand; ditches both drain the land andprovide tidal flood relief

Trees

• Woodland is restricted to river corridors and fringingbirch around the raised mires

• Single trees can be found scattered around theAONB as ‘in-hedgerow’ standards. Most are largewith little or no regeneration. Most occur in theeastern sector.

• A single beech avenue exists at Hartlaw

• Small woodland coverts exist on Castletown estate(near Rockcliffe) for shooting purposes

Gatestoops

• Traditional sandstone gate posts or ‘stoops’ occurthroughout the AONB at field-gate thresholds andhave a variety of surface finishes and pediment styles

1.3.6 Moss Landscapes – Location and KeyCharacteristics

Location: The Mosses or raised mires centre on theCardurnock peninsula. Bowness Common and GlassonMoss cover an area of 1080ha in the western sector andSalta Moss covers around 46ha. Two other large areas ofraised mire lie just outside of the AONB at WedholmeFlow and Drumburgh Moss.

Raised mire

• Large areas of rain-fed peatland with a shallow raiseddome of peat up to 6.5m thick

• Characteristic vegetation cover reflects the lownutrient conditions on the bog surface

• Texture and colour contrasts with surroundingpasture fields

• Usually screened from view by fringing birch woodland• Important for invertebrate fauna and acidic low nutrient

flora• Salta Moss is heath-like over most of its area due to

desiccation caused by a lowering water table

1.3.7 Built Landscapes – Location and KeyCharacteristics

Location: The settlements within the AONB are stronglyassociated with the coastline and rivers. Wheresettlements do not conform to this pattern they areusually associated with major roads, disused canals andrailways, farmsteads or Hadrian’s Wall.

Settlements

• Most of the larger settlements have a strong linearform either influenced by the coastline or an adjacenthighway

• The settlements in the eastern section have clearseaward frontages with some development behind

• The establishment of villages is extremely varied fromthose with 12th Century origins to those developedthrough new ports and latterly by WWII airfields


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t O

ne

9

Buildings

• There is a complex mixture of vernacular styles fromfortified stone buildings to ‘cruck’ based structures

• Fortified farm houses or ‘Bastles’ are common in theBorders area and the AONB has one at Drumburgh

• Fortified churches can be seen at Burgh by Sandsand Newton Arlosh

• Longhouses, clay dabbins and cruck roofed dwellingsare scattered around the landscape

• The only large country estate at Castletown has anassociated ‘Hall’ type dwelling

• Building materials are extremely diverse from shorelinecobbles to dressed stone, brick and clay. Manybuildings, especially multi-phase farm settlementshave a range of fabrics

• Roofs are usually covered in slate or sandstone pan-tile Some reed thatch still survives

• Architectural influences are typical of the northwestcoastal area where single storey longhouses hug thetopography and the settlements tend to be twostoreys with the upper floor as part of the roof apexand probably added at a later date

• The village of Port Carlisle has Georgian terraces, andis the product of investment into the port associatedwith the Carlisle canal; it is a peculiar and quirkyfeature in the area

• Allonby has some notable Victorian buildings and wasdeveloped during that period as a Spa-style resort

• Recent building styles have taken away much of thecharacter of the villages with modern bungalowsproviding infill and boundary expansion

Roads, Footpaths and Waths

• Drove roads or sunken lanes with high hedge kestsare common

• Extant, derelict and in-filled ponds occur alonghighways; most are within settlement boundaries

• Estuary crossing points known locally as ‘Waths’ areunmarked and shift with the movement of estuarysediments

• Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail, Hadrian’s CycleRoute and the Cumbria Coastal Way all share thehighways and byways of the AONB

• A large Public Rights of Way network criss-crosses thelandscape many parts of which follow sunken lanesand field boundaries

• Open access areas include sand dunes, salt-marshesand raised mires

1.3.8 Tranquillity

• The AONB generally is mapped as a ‘most tranquil’area with the level of tranquillity decreasing slightly inthe southern area of the AONB along the coast fromSilloth to Maryport. The impact of the roads ontranquillity is clearly seen. Increasing visitor numbers,increasing car use, improved access and changingrecreational activities may lead to a decrease intranquillity within the AONB.

1.3.9 Significant features

• Hadrian’s Wall, contemporary defences of theCumbrian coast, remains and earthworks (Mileforts andVallum)

• Elizabethan Sea Dyke at Skinburness

• Salt extraction sites on saltmarshes and behind openbeaches

• Carlisle canal

• Railway buildings, bridges and cuttings

• Ministry of Defence wireless array ( 15 masts) near Anthorn


Managem

ent Plan P

art One

Reproduced courtesy of the Campaign to Protect Rural England. Revised edition 2007. Crown copyright. All rights reserved.

The Countryside Agency 2006. Licence No. 100018881.

Figure 4. Tranquility Map of Cumbria

most tranquil

least tranquil

1.3.10 Historic Landscape Characterisation

Historic Landscape Characterisation has taken place forCumbria at a county wide scale. A range of historiclandscape types have been defined and historic landscapecharacter areas have been developed. The AONB formspart of the Solway Plain character area. This extends fromthe coast from near Carlisle to Crosscanonby and inlandtowards the A596. It also forms part of the Ellen andMarron Valley Character area south of Crosscanonby.More information can be found in the Guide to CumbriaHistoric Landscape Characterisation Database forCumbria’s Planning Authorities.

1.4 Purpose and ContextWhat is an AONB?

1.4.1 Our National Parks and Areas of Outstanding NaturalBeauty are some of the finest landscape assets in the BritishIsles. This status is underpinned by a legislative frameworkfor their protection and enhancement into the future.

1.4.2 The National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act1949 provided for the designation of National Parks andAreas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs). Following thisinitial legislation 60 years ago, AONBs have receivedpiecemeal management and a range of managementsolutions driven by Local Authorities. In 2000 theCountryside and Rights of Way Act (CRoW) createdlegislation for the better protection of AONBs. This new Actconsolidates and strengthens the 1949 Act concerningAONBs, reaffirming the purpose of designation andconfirming the powers of Local Authorities to takeappropriate action to conserve or enhance the naturalbeauty of AONBs. The following are the objectives of therelevant sections of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act2000 with regard to AONBs:

1.4.3 The purpose of AONB designation is conservation andenhancement of the natural beauty of the landscape.Government confirmed in July 2000 that, since thelandscape qualities of National Parks and AONBs areequivalent, the protection being given to both types of areaby the land use planning system should also be equivalent.

The statement of purpose of AONB designation is:

‘To Conserve and Enhance Natural Beauty’

1.4.4 The natural outcome for the statement of purpose is topursue its aims through a plan, a management plan. Thereforethe primary driver for this document is the statement ofpurpose.

1.4.5 Having due regard for the purpose of AONB designationis a provision of the CRoW Act (2000), Section 85 places aduty of regard on all bodies undertaking work within AONBs.Therefore this Management Plan is a useful tool for publicbodies to support AONB purposes.

Who is responsible for AONBs?

1.4.6 Local Authorities have the primary responsibility for theconservation and enhancement of AONBs. The duty undersection 89 of the CRoW Act, to produce a plan giving policiesfor the management of the area, also falls on the LocalAuthorities for the area covered by the designation. NaturalEngland with the three constituent local authorities, AllerdaleBorough Council (ABC), Carlisle City Council (CaCC), andCumbria County Council (CCC) provide both the foundationand the core funding to maintain the AONB Partnership throughthe provision of a Staff Unit and a Joint Advisory Committee(JAC). The Staff Unit has produced this Management Planrevision on behalf of the three local Authorities.

How is the AONB managed?

1.4.7 The JAC is made up of representatives of organisationswith a particular interest in the area. They include LocalAuthorities, Parish Councils, Community Groups, StatutoryAgencies and other public and voluntary sector organisations.The JAC was set up and constituted in 2002 and comprises24 seats:


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t O

ne

Section 82 reaffirms the purpose of AONBs

Section 84 confirms the powers of localauthorities to take appropriate actionto conserve and enhance the naturalbeauty of AONBs

Section 85 places a duty on all public bodiesand statutory undertakers to ‘haveregard’ to the ‘purpose ofconserving and enhancing thenatural beauty of the area ofoutstanding natural beauty’

Section 89 creates a statutory responsibility forLocal Authorities to prepare andpublish and periodically review aplan which formulates their policy forthe management of the area and forthe carrying out of their functions inrelation to it

Statutory Bodies (2)Natural EnglandEnvironment AgencyLocal Government Elected Members (6)Cumbria County Council (2)Allerdale Borough Council (3)Carlisle City Council (1)Parish Council Representation (4) GroupsWest One Oughterside & AllerbyWest Two AllonbyEast One Bowness on SolwayEast Two Burgh by SandsTown Council Representation (2)SillothMaryportCommunity (4)Port Carlisle Community GroupLakes Area of RamblersVoluntary Action CumbriaBowness on Solway Community GroupLocal Land Ownership & Management Issues (4)Country Landowners and Business AssociationFriends of the Lake DistrictSenhouse Roman MuseumRoyal Society for the Protection of BirdsNominated (Non Voting) (2)Cumbria TourismSolway Coast Volunteer Group


Managem

ent Plan P

art One

Theme: Landscape & Natural HeritageStrategy: The Solway Coast Landscape (CountrysideCommission 1995) · Cumbria County CouncilLandscape Strategy (Cumbria CC)UK and Local Biodiversity Action Plans ( BAPPartnerships) · Natural England Strategic Direction2006-2009, Natural England, (2006)

Theme: Cultural and Built HeritageStrategy: A Force for the Future (DCMS/DTLR),PPG15, PPG16, Circular 07/2009 · Protection of WHSArchitectural Framework for NW England · White PaperHeritage Protection for the 21st Century, DCMS, (2007)

Theme: Landscape, Economy & Community, TheCoast, Tourism, Transport, Access & Recreation Strategy: North West Regional Rural DeliveryFramework, (2006) · North West Regional EconomicStrategy, (NWDA 2006) · 4 North West RegionalSpatial Strategy (NWRA 2008) · The Strategy forSustainable Farming and Food – Facing the Future,Defra ,(2002) · A Sea Change: A Marine Bill WhitePaper, (Defra 2007) · Rural Strategy, Defra (2004) ·Cleaner coasts, healthier seas - working for a bettermarine environment · Our Strategy for 2005-2011,Environment Agency, (2005) · The North West Planfor Sport and Physical Activity 2004-2008, SportEngland, (2004) · The Strategy for Tourism inEngland’s Northwest 2003-2010 · NorthwestDevelopment Agency Revised 2007 · North WestWetlands Network, Final Report, Jacobs Babtie ·(Environment Agency, English Nature), NWDA, 2006 ·Allerdale Local Plan, Allerdale Borough Council (1999)CCP · Sustainable Cumbria – A Strategy for Growthand Progress for Cumbria, CSP (2004) · CumbriaRights of Way Improvement Plan, Cumbria CountyCouncil, (2007) · Carlisle District Local Plan 2001-2016 (2008) · Cumbria Landscape Strategy, CumbriaCounty Council, 1998 · The Local Transport Plan forCumbria 2006/07-2010/11, Cumbria County Council2006 · NW Regional Spatial Strategy, September2008 · Allerdale LDF, Core Strategy, Issues andOptions, September 2006 · Allerdale LocalDevelopment Scheme (2008-2011) · LocalDevelopment Scheme for Carlisle (2008-2011)

Theme: Climate and Renewables,Environmental ManagementStrategy: Spatial Implications of Climate Change,North West Regional Assembly, (2003) · Rising to theChallenge – A Climate Change Action Plan forEngland’s Northwest 2007-09 (NWDA) · North WestSustainable Energy Strategy, NWRA, 2006 · Cleanercoasts, healthier seas - working for a better marineenvironment. · Our Strategy for 2005-2011,Environment Agency, (2005) · Cumbria Wind EnergySupplementary Planning Document · Adopted Version,Cumbria County Council (2007) · The Eden and EskCatchment Abstraction Management Strategy,Environment Agency, 2006 · The Derwent, WestCumbria and Duddon Catchment AbatractionManagement Strategy, Environment Agency, April2007 · Cumbria Climate Change Strategy, Draft forConsultation, Cumbria Strategic Partnership, 2007

1.4.8 Further to the JAC, the AONB is supported by atechnical officer steering group made up of officers fromthe three Local Authorities and officers from NaturalEngland, Environment Agency and Solway FirthPartnership. This group supports the work of thepermanent staff unit.

1.4.9 The Staff Unit comprises the AONB Manager(FT), Assistant AONB Manager (PT), Education Officer(PT), Community Volunteer Coordinator (PT) andAdministrator (PT).

1.4.10 The Partnership is core funded through NaturalEngland, Allerdale Borough Council, Cumbria CountyCouncil and Carlisle City Council. The AONB Partnership(JAC) is not a legally constituted body so cannot act in itsown right on employment or financial matters. As aresult, Allerdale Borough Council has a role as the‘Accountable Body’ for the AONB Partnership. Theyprovide financial management, employment facilities andaccommodation on behalf of the AONB Partnership.

Who is this Plan for?

1.4.11 It is the Solway Coast AONB Partnership that willown, steer, and facilitate the implementation and review ofthis Management Plan. The wider partnership is inclusiveof all stakeholders within the AONB and, as such, all havea say in its delivery. The plan will also inform, influenceand integrate all partner/stakeholder activities in theAONB area with the ultimate goal of fulfilling the ‘Vision’. Itis the staff unit and the Joint Advisory Committee that willmonitor progress and make the decisions about reachingthe ultimate vision for the AONB.

Where does this Plan fit into the wider policyframework?

1.4.12 The context or relationship of this Plan to otherstrategies and plans is extremely important. Thesupporting documentation that underpins the LocalDevelopment Framework (LDF) provides the primaryfocus for the AONB Plan. This Plan will work as aninforming document which will influence other plans but,and more importantly, it has taken full account of themany policies, objectives and aspirations of the widerframework.

1.4.13 International, national, regional and local planshave all influenced the Plan in some way and this makesit both relevant and alive and as aspirational as others.

1.4.14 The table (right) outlines the relevant local, regionaland national strategies and plans which influence thisPlan. A more comprehensive review can be found in The Environmental Report 2009.

1.5 Governance, Monitoring and Reporting

Governance

1.5.1 As described in section 1.4.7 the Solway CoastAONB JAC came into being in 2002 and its structureand membership has proven successful over the past 6 years. A number of small changes have been made to both the membership of the JAC and its constitution(working arrangements) over the years to enhance itsrole as a governance structure and maintain it as ‘fitfor purpose’.

Sustainable Development Fund (SDF)

1.5.8 Natural England provides funding for a SustainableDevelopment Fund for the AONB. The SDF is a grantscheme managed by the AONB Unit. It supportsinnovative and sustainable projects that combine social,environmental and economic benefits to the AONB. Thefund provides grants to organisations, businesses,community groups and individuals who wish to exploreand develop projects that enhance, conserve anddevelop the environment, economy and way of life inthe AONB.

1.5.9 Grants are available to Parish and communityorganisations, Parish Councils, charities,voluntarygroups, Local Authorities, Government agencies andprivate businesses or individuals (with evidence ofcommunity support).

The Management Plan

1.5.10 The measurement of success or otherwiseregarding delivery of Management Plan objectives entailsperformance indicators once again. However, themeasurement this time can be simple or complex. On theone hand delivery of a simple project such as the designand publication of a leaflet by the AONB Unit is in thehands of the Partnership. In this context both deliveryand performance can be directly attributed to the AONBPartnership. Alternatively, a project supported by theAONB Unit such as a partnership approach to acommon theme may be compromised in both deliveryand performance by a member organisation. Thissituation cannot be directly attributable to the AONBPartnership.

1.5.11 To avoid any misunderstandings and to provide aSMART scoring system, the AONB Unit must identify theexternal threats to each of the actions and factor themin as part of the monitoring and reporting process. Thisapproach is embedded in the Action Plan matrix insection three of this plan.

State of the AONB

1.5.12 In 2008, as part of the 2004-09 Management PlanReview, the AONB Partnership commissioned a State ofthe AONB Report. For the first time the AONB Unit has a‘baseline’ data set from which it can measure changeand monitor condition within a range of subject matterpertaining to the AONB. From the condition of SSSI, tothe cost of housing, to visitor spend, to landuse, there isnow information on which to inform progress in theconservation and enhancement of the AONB.

1.5.13 Almost all of the subject matter is containedwithin this Plan, however only part of it is directlyinfluenced by the AONB Partnership.


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t O

ne

1.5.2 The life of this Plan is five years and in that timechange is inevitable whether on a small or large scaleand the forces for change can be many and varied, fromEuropean and national legislation to changes in localpartner priorities. Whatever the driver, the AONBPartnership must be flexible but must alwaysconcentrate on the successful delivery of the plan and,equally as important, to maintain the Partnership.

How will progress be measured?

1.5.3 The AONB Partnership has two priorities withregard to plan delivery progress and how it is measured.Actions driven by the plan must be monitored in thecontext of SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable,Realistic and Timely) outputs and the subsequentsuccess of the actions must be measured against thecondition of the AONB.

To fulfil this need, we will:

• Assess progress and achievements made againstthe Action Plan Targets for the year

• Confirm Action Plan activities and targets for the yearahead whilst incorporating unfinished actions fromthe previous year

• Identify new areas of action based upon partneractivities or new forces for change

• Keep the Action Plan under review over the comingfive years

To monitor condition we will identify a range of indicatorswhich can be used to establish a baseline and measurechange. The nature of the AONB designation does notthrow-up obvious indicators so proxies will be foundcovering the following subject matter:

• Countryside and landcover indicators

• Cultural and vernacular indicators

• Ecology and environmental indicators (purpose ofdesignation)

• Socio-economic and quality of life indicators

The Annual Review document published by the AONBPartnership will describe measure and report on allpriorities.

The AONB Partnership

1.5.4 Core funding is provided by Natural England and thethree Local Authorities at a ratio of 75% to 25%. It coversthe cost of running the AONB Staff Unit and delivery ofthe core functions stipulated by Natural England.. Thefunding and governance arrangements are outlined in thecurrent Memorandum of Agreement (MoA), updated in2007. This will be replaced during 2010 by a newagreement outlining the new working arrangementsbetween Natural England and the Local Authorities.

1.5.5 Natural England also provides a template ofPartnership indicators to monitor the health of the AONBPartnership, which are reported on at the end of eachyear. These are attached at Appendix 7. These will also beupdated in 2010.

1.5.6 An Annual report will be produced each yeardemonstrating the work of the Partnership in delivering thecore functions and the Management Plan actions.

Project funding

1.5.7 Funding will be sought from a range of sources tofund delivery of actions identified in this Management Plan.

13

Issues and Forces for Change

Issues and forces for change are covered in the nextsection where they drive our theme objectives andpolicies. The following considers issues and forcesfor change that may affect/influence the internalprocesses and functions of the AONB Partnership.

• Global economic recession will impinge on UKgovernment funding priorities in the medium term(1-5 years)

• Local Authority funding may be affected bynational government funding re-alignment

• Changes in local government service provision,‘joint working’ and ‘shared services’ will affect theAONB Partnership

• Opportunities to extend the funding partnership,to ensure that rises in core costs can be metwithout compromising project and SDF deliveryare possible, perhaps through ‘shared services’

• The need to access additional project funding toallow delivery of actions in the Plan will mean thatthe AONB Unit will need to build on its currenttrack record of successfully attracting additionalfunding

• The Management Plan delivery monitoring criteriaand the reporting protocol will be subject tochange and adjustments throughout the comingfive years

• Setting up a Marine Agency will have implicationsfor the AONB Partnership throughaccommodation of the new body

1.6 Management Plan Themes,Visions, Objectives and ActionsThemes

1.6.1 Nine overarching themes provide focus andunderstanding of the many issues and forces forchange that are either influencing the AONB now orare likely to influence it over the next five years.

1.6.2 Change can be both negative and positive butwill inevitably affect the future of the area. The nextsection of the Management Plan seeks toencapsulate related subject matter into themes thatprovide a process through which we identify our workover the coming five years. As a starting point thethemes identified are as follows:

1. Landscape

2. Natural Heritage

3. Cultural and Built Heritage

4. The Coast

5. Environmental Management

6. Climate and Renewables

7. Tourism, Transport, Access and Recreation

8. Education and Awareness

9. Economy and Community

1.6.3 Each of the themes will be presented in the following way:

1. Vision statement

2. Scope of theme and evidence

3. Issues and forces for change

4. Objectives – what we want to achieve

5. Policies – the ways in which we plan to meet theobjectives

6. Actions – the mechanisms to deliver the objectives

7. Progress – The ways we will report and measureprogress in delivery of the objectives

Visions

1.6.4 Each of the themes begins with a visionstatement that acts as a target or the ultimate goal wewish to achieve in 30 years’ time. It is aspirational butis achievable through the successful delivery of thisand subsequent

Management Plans.

Scope of theme and evidence

1.6.5 The scope of each theme is based on thenumber of subjects it combines or it takes account ofthe complexity or simplicity of single subjects underone theme heading.

1.6.6 The evidence base is derived from the ‘State ofthe AONB’ data which looks at a wide range ofsubject matter and encapsulates it into a series ofcategories.

1.6.7 The consultation process on this Plan providesanother source of evidence as does the everydayprocess of AONB management and working closelywith partner organisations, stakeholders andcommunities and understanding their needs andaspirations.


1.6.8 These are both derived locally or are influencedby national, European and world polices andlegislation.

From Objective to Progress

1.6.9 This is the process or the direction of flow wewill take to deliver the needs of the AONB and reportour progress and ultimately meet the statement ofpurpose ‘to conserve and enhance natural beauty’.


Managem

ent Plan P

art One

6014

Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

Usi

ng t

he A

ctio

n P

lan

Policy CH 1.1

Encourage and

support the

delivery ofschemes that

conserve and

enhance the

historicenvironment

and localdistinctiveness of

the AONB whilst

also protecting

the other special

qualities of the

area

Policy CH1.2

Improve and

Theme Cultural and Built Heritage

Objective Objective CH 1 The built and cultural heritage is appropriately conserved, enhanced and

managed and there is a better understanding and appreciation of its special qualities

CH1.1.1 Engage with Natural England, English

Heritage and landowners in maintaining and

promoting access to sites of historical interest

CH1.1.2 With partners, produce a baseline survey of

the state and types of vernacular farmsteads within

the Solway, with a view to developing a programme

with site owners for restoration and enhancement

CH1.1.3 Encourage Parish Councils to repair and

conserve traditional cast iron highway signs

CH1.2.1 Produce a booklet exploring the historic

buildings, farmsteads and vernacular

PolicyAction

Initial Partners Timescale AONB Linked

LeadTeam Role ObjectivePr

iorit

y

AONB Unit NE, EH, Ongoing Catalyst 2

LAG, SAG

AONB Unit EH, FWAG Ongoing Executive 1

NE, SAG

AONB Unit PCs, CCC Ongoing Advocate 1

AONB Unit EH, NE, 2011 Executive 3 EA1.1.4

ABC, CCCCaCC

Using the Action PlanHow to interpret the Action tables

ObjectiveSomething wewant to achieve

PolicyHow we are goingto achieve theobjective

ActionWork towardsmeeting theobjective

InitialLeadThey may not doall the work, butthey start theprocess of makingit happen andreport on progress

TimescaleWhen it will bedone by(sometimes ‘howmany’ per year orduring the life ofthe plan)

PartnersNot an exclusivelist of thoseinvolved, butthose which arevital toimplementing theaction

AONBTeam RoleThe role of theAONB PartnershipStaff Unit in thisaction; Executive -work it does itseldand with othersCatalyst -things itbrings togetherto make happenAdvocate - things itpromotesand champions

LinkedObjectivesOther objectives towhich thisaction is linked

Priority1 high – 3

Part Two2.1 Landscape

Landscape Vision 2034The natural beauty of the Solway Coast AONB isconserved, appropriately managed and enhanced.Farming has diversified in such a way that moresustainable and traditional practices have returned. Fieldboundaries have cobble walls, stone-faced banks toppedby hedges or mixed species hedgerows with mixed agestandard trees that are managed in a traditional way.Woodlands have been extended where appropriate andare well managed, and succession of hedgerow trees asa feature has been ensured. Saltmarshes, sand dunesand raised mires are enjoyed by people and due tocurrent sympathetic management and a variety ofrestoration projects, are recovering historical levels ofbiodiversity. The AONB boundary has been extended toinclude more areas of high landscape value.


2.1.0 This theme addresses the heart of the reason fordesignation as an AONB and, as such, the landscape

description is fundamental to understanding itsimportance, what makes it special, and the factorswhich affect it. Landscape is described as an area asperceived by people, whose character is the result ofthe action and interaction of natural and/or humanfactors . The whole of this Management Plan assessesthese actions and interactions. This theme is a generaloverview of landscape and all its component elements.

2.1.1 As described in detail in section 1, the SolwayCoast landscape is diverse but fragile; it is also a livinglandscape and in some places it is still wild andnatural. Many issues and forces impinge upon thelandscape all of which have the potential to modify iteither for good or otherwise.


2.1.2 A range of issues are affecting the area. Thesehave been identified from a number of sources includingpublic meetings, volunteers, Parish Council requests, ourState of the AONB Report 2008; they are described inAppendix 1 and below.

Issues and Forces for Change Evidence

Marine litter is a continuous area of concern both locally and nationally.

The coastal car parks are derelict, of poorquality and susceptible to coastal erosion.There is a need to improve the car parks tobetter integrate them into the landscape andprovide better quality facilities for visitors to thearea without introducing urban designcharacteristics.

Marine litter and especially marine plastics is agrowing problem on UK shorelines and the AONB isno exception. Through working with localauthorities, community groups, schools andindividuals, and organisations such as the TidyBritain Group, Adopt a Beach, the Marine LitterCampaign and the Marine Conservation Society it isclear that marine litter is an increasing issue thatneeds addressing.

Coastal car parks within the AONB were not built ascar parks. Instead they are artefacts of areas wherepeople park their cars to enjoy the coastline. Theoutcome has created heavily eroded, unsafe andextremely difficult areas to maintain. Where car parkclosures have occurred they have been replacedwith well built alternatives that are virtuallymaintenance free.


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

Lan

dsc

ape


Managem

ent Plan P

art Two Land

scape


The encroachment of gorse and ragwort intocoastal grasslands is preventing nativespecies from thriving.

Large groups of travellers settle along certainparts of the dune coastline (cars, vans,caravans, horses and dogs) for extensiveperiods of time. This has a harmful visual andphysical impact and degrades the feeling ofwildness. It also discourages other membersof the public from enjoying the resource.

Changes in farming practices have led to anincrease in wind-blown plastics. Thisdegrades the overall quality of the area andis a particular issue in open landscapesalong the coast.

Fly-tipping is a growing concern whereaccess into the dunes is out of sight and inhollows. The situation is an eyesore but ithas further potential to pollute SSSI’s.

Some of the raised mires and other naturalareas have hard rectilinear edges due todrainage ditches and field enclosures. Thesecould be softened by allowing natural shruband tree succession in appropriate locations.

Overhead power and telecommunications wires and poles can be intrusive in some parts of the flat and open landscape.

Government is committed to renewable energyprovision and there is likely to be a continuedinterest in wind energy developments close tothe boundary of the AONB due to its open andwindy characteristics. An increase in biomasscrops could change the landscape character ofparts of the area.

Many areas where stock is absent provide ideal habitat forinvasive weeds and shrubs. A planned programme of handpulling ragwort over the past 10 years has done little toreduce its impact. Invasive plants need to be managedaccording to DEFRA guidance where there is no threat tolivestock from potentially poisonous species. In someplaces gorse is being managed on a rotational basis whichis proving effective.

In summer and autumn three areas of the AONB arevulnerable to the activities of travellers and their livestock.Crosscanonby verges, Mawbray Banks and Wolsty Banksare the worst affected. The problem is getting worse.Allerdale Borough Council has recognised this issue and iscurrently looking to designate a site for travellers.

Farm and field boundaries are being draped in wind blownblack and green plastic bale/silage wrap.

Allerdale Borough Council is removing more waste that hasbeen tipped illegally in parts of the AONB.

Mapping and observation has revealed the non-natural landscape in these areas.

7290m of power lines have been identified as requiringunder-grounding within the AONB. 1547m has beencompleted so far.

Planning applications for 3 wind energy schemes within3.5km of the AONB were submitted to Allerdale BoroughCouncil in 2007. 1 of these has been granted consent. A further offshore windfarm has been announced for theSolway Firth.

Evidence

The coastal landscape is being damaged byunauthorised access points that are erodingfragile surfaces.

There are changes to dune grassland habitatarising from the removal of conservation grazingstock (horses and sheep) on the unfenced dunegrassland due to an increasing number ofmortalities and injuries from road traffic impactson the B5300 coastal route. This has resulted ina decline of our nationally important dune andheath systems.

Of the twenty one unofficial car parks along the coastline only six are maintainable without causing furtherenvironmental damage.

Motorised vehicles such as cars, scramble bikes, quadbikes, tractors, 4x4s and ex military vehicles have allbeen recorded on the dune system leading to majorerosion of the soft sediments (sands).

SSSI monitoring shows the condition of large areas ofthe sand dunes is poor. Habitat change has beenevident since the removal of the grazing stock. Howeverthis decline could be reversed if a safe grazing solutioncan be found. A recent experiment to fence part of thedunes for conservation livestock grazing has producedan immediate improvement in plant species diversity andsward quality. Further areas are being assessed as totheir suitability for fencing.


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

Lan

dsc

ape

Trees (both woodland and hedgerow) aremature or over mature and the lack ofappropriate planting of new nativewoodland and the management of existingwoodland are areas of concern. Hedgekests are losing their traditional mettling ofstone. Open grassland commons are being‘gardened’ in a patchwork manner.

There is a loss of traditional sandstonegatestoops in-field thresholds as farmimplements and machinery get larger. The continued loss of traditional farmsteadbuildings and the siting and constructionof new farm buildings is gradually erodingthe special qualities of the area.

Agricultural practices are likely to diversifydue to increasing pressures on thesaltmarshes and wetlands from rising sealevels linked to climate change. Alsochanges are likely to the sea ward edgesof the area from coastal realignment andflood defence options that will benecessary to mitigate sea level changes.

Commercial interest in aquaculture ofoysters and mussels may affect seascapeif not sensitively sited.

The European Landscape Conventioncommits the UK to looking after its speciallandscape character. The existinglandscape character assessment for thearea is out of date and does not followcurrent landscape character methodology.The overall condition of the area needs tobe re-assessed as this information iscurrently lacking.

Changes in farming techniques have resulted in the lossof landscape features such as hedgerow and in-fieldtree standards and the loss of living field boundaries topost and wire fencing. Grass cutting on grasslandcommons by adjacent property owners is changing thecharacter of the common land and is producing amanicured look. Hedge cutting practices are changingand creating non traditional shaped hedges in thelandscape. Other important features include dressedstone culverts, gate stoops, stone-faced kests(hedgebanks topped with hedges), and dry stone walls.Only small areas of woodland occur within the AONBbut by their scarcity have become important landscapefeatures, providing vertical interest in an otherwisepredominantly flat landscape.

A survey carried out by the AONB Unit in 2000 (internaldatabase) revealed that the loss of sandstonegatestoops was in the region of 60% with very fewthresholds having matching pairs. A survey carried outby the farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (in press2009) has revealed loss of some traditional buildings, anincrease in modern silage clamps and above groundslurry tanks, both of which are associated with themodern practice of silage cropping for winter fodder.

The newly emerging Shoreline Management Plan(SMP2) will act to steer future management options. Theneeds of the current SMP and the special Allonby Bayreport have been fulfilled to protect the B5300 coastalhighway and vulnerable archaeological sites. Landscapeguidance from the AONB Unit helped to mitigate visualimpacts with landscape friendly designs beingimplemented.

Locally there is an increasing interest in this industry.Well managed it could add to the local identity. Howeverpoorly sited development may damage sensitivehabitats, be visually intrusive and disturb sensitivespecies.

The only information available is linked to theCountryside Quality Counts project and this indicates thatthe wider landscape within which the AONB sits has aneglected or diverging condition. This is not consideredto be the case of the AONB, but the evidence needs tobe gathered to address this issue The AONB boundaryappears arbitrary in places and the characteristics of thesetting of the area are not clearly defined in landscapeterms.


Objectives

L1 Objective The landscape characteristics that create the distinctiveidentity of the Solway Coast AONB are appropriatelyprotected, managed, conserved and enhanced.

Policies Policy L1.1 Work with partners to improve the baseline dataavailable to inform condition monitoring and managementpriorities.

Policy L1.2 Encourage and support the develop-ment,targeting and delivery of schemes and projects thatmaintain and improve the landscape character and localdistinctiveness of the AONB.

Policy L1.3 Encourage local planning authorities to take better account of AONB purpose, and maintain andenhance the AONB’s special landscape character.

Policy L1.4 Encourage local councils to improve theirmechanisms to help protect and enhance the AONB’s special character.

Policy L1.1

Work withpartners toimprove thebaseline dataavailable toinformconditionmonitoringandmanagementpriorities

Theme LandscapeObjective Objective L1 The landscape characteristics that create the distinctive identity of the

Solway Coast AONB are appropriately protected, managed, conserved and enhanced

Policy L1.2

Encourageand supportthedevelopment,targeting anddelivery ofschemes andprojects thatmaintain andimprove thelandscape

L1.1.1 Develop and produce an updated district-levelLandscape and Seascape Character Assessment for theAONB and its setting, including identification of forcesfor change, sensitivity, capacity for change andproduction of management guidelines

L1.1.2 Develop and undertake an AONB-wide surveyproject to identify extent and condition of key landscapefeatures for future use as indicators of condition,including hedges, hedgebanks, walls, gate stoops andother priority features identified as neglected in CQCtheme detail sections

L1.1.3 To provide information and statistics in order tomake informed decisions about coastal car parkprovision and subsequent actions and to provide therelevant authorities with the philosophy underpinning‘rural road character’

L1.1.4 To provide landscape advice to various bodies,primarily United Utilities using the best practice from FLDwith regard to overhead ‘wirescape’ and to providevision through advice to landowners and farmersregarding landscape

L1.1.5 To consider, in the light of emerging evidence,how the AONB landscape will be affected by climatechange

L1.1.6 To present a case, to the constituent localauthorities and Natural England, regarding the AONBboundary and its relevance following 45 years ofdesignation

L1.2.1 Support and advise landowners to accessfunding from Environmental Stewardship and WoodlandGrant schemes, ensuring agreements identify and targetpriority landscape features

L1.2.2 Develop a project to restore key featuresidentified as in need of restoration through the SolwayWetlands Project

L1.2.3 Continue the annual hedgelaying competition, tochampion best practice and encourage better hedgemanagement in the AONB, and to also encou-ragerestoration of walling and kests

Policy Action Initial Partners Timescale AONB Linked Lead Team Role ObjectivePr

iorit

y

AONB Unit NE, LAs Summer Executive 1 C1.152010

AONB Unit NE, EH Summer Executive 1 NH1.6.1CWT 2010

AONB Unit CCC Ongoing Executive 1Highways

FLD

AONB Unit FLD Ongoing Executive 2FLD NE

EA AONB Ongoing Catalyst 2Unit NE

AONB Unit LAs, NE Summer Executive 22010

NE AONB Ongoing Advocate 1 EM1.2.1Unit

AONB Unit NE, CWT Autumn Catalyst 2 EM1.2.2,EA, EH 2010 NH1.4c.2

NFU, RSPB

AONB Unit NE, FLD Annual Executive 1 NH1.6.2CN NH1.4.3

EM1.2.3


Managem

ent Plan P

art Two Land

scape


Policy L1.3

Encouragelocal planningauthorities totake betteraccount ofAONBpurpose, andmaintain andenhance theAONB’sspeciallandscapecharacter

Policy L1.4

Encouragelocal councilsto improvetheirmechanismsto help protectand enhancethe AONB’sspecialcharacter

Theme LandscapeObjective Objective L1 The landscape characteristics that create the distinctive identity of the

Solway Coast AONB are appropriately protected, managed, conserved and enhanced


iorit

y

AONB Unit NE, RSPB When Advocate 2CWT fisheries

re-open

AONB Unit NE, ABC Spring Executive 1Graziers 2010

AONB Unit Volunteers Annual Executive 1 NH1.5.1Schools C1.1a.3

NE L1.4b.1NH1.1.4

NE AONB Ongoing Advocate 1Unit ,LAs

AONB Unit FWAG Spring Executive 1LA’s, EH 2010Grampus

AONB Unit LAs, FLD As and Executive 1NAAONBs when

required

AONB Unit NE, LAs Summer Executive 1 L 1.1.12010

AONB Unit LAs As and Executive 1when

required

AONB Unit ABC, NE 2010-11 Advocate 2

AONB Unit ABC 2010 Advocate 2

SFP AONB Ongoing Advocate 2 C1.1a.1LAs Unit C1.2.3

L1.2.4 To agree sustainable beach access areas withlocal shell fishermen that are non damaging and safewith regard to the highway interface CSFC (orequivalent)

L1.2.5 To promote the sympathetic (visually unobtrusive)use of stock fencing and freshwater provision withincoastal dune grassland commons to provide a safehaven for livestock whilst encouraging human access onfoot into the fenced areas

L1.2.6 To provide a workforce, using primarily theSolway Coast Community Volunteers and local schools,to ‘hand-pull’ ragwort on the dune system and to useappropriate techniques to move fringing gorse wherenecessary

L1.2.7 To raise awareness and find solutions tolandscape damaging processes carried out bylandowners, farmers and local residents

L1.2.8 To create a ‘State of the Built Heritage’document identifying those farm buildings under threatand to provide statistics regarding the numbers ofgatestoops lost since 1950

L1.3.1 Comment on planning applications which willhave a significant impact on the landscape character ofthe AONB and Local Development Policy andProposals which affect the landscape character of theAONB and its setting

L1.3.2 Work in partnership to produce an up to dateLandscape Character Assessment for the AONB and itssetting

L1.3.3 Provide input to strategic planning process(RSS, LDF, etc.), to influence all relevant strategies,plans and policies to ensure they adequately reflect the‘duty of regard’ to the AONB

L1.4.1 To work with Allerdale Borough Council legaldepartment to strengthen their bylaws to provide a morepositive legal framework with regards to illicit campers,caravanners and travellers

L1.4.2 To work with Allerdale Borough Council’s streetscene contractor to establish a strategy for the removalof farm plastics from fencing and coastal and marinelitter

L1.4.3 To encourage the estuary partnership (SolwayFirth Partnership) to raise awareness of marine litter andits visual impact and to help persuade the constituentlocal authorities to take action

characterand localdistinctiveness of theAONB

Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

Lan

dsc

ape

Managem

ent Plan P

art Two N

atural Heritage


2.2 Natural Heritage

Natural Heritage Vision 2034

The Solway Firth encompasses a large range of habitats inturn supporting a wide range of resident and migratoryspecies of wildlife. Land management regimes on naturalareas are sympathetic to the needs of both agriculture andwildlife. Localised flood defence and land drainageschemes have been re-developed to retain water withinraised mires. Areas of marginal pasture have been allowedto re-wet to create breeding habitat for waders. A strongpartnership has grown between land managers andconservation bodies. Eight breeding bird species havereturned to the Solway. Twelve new Local Nature Reserveshave been created and the AONB encompasses moreareas of high nature conservation value.

2.2.1 The Natural Heritage section covers habitats,species and ecological factors that determine the spatialdistribution and welfare requirements of the plants andanimals within the AONB. The ‘layer-cake’ of conservationdesignations to protect its habitats and species istestament to the international importance of the SolwayCoast for wildlife.


2.2.2 The Solway Firth is one of the most importantestuaries in the UK with regard to biodiversity. TheAONB is made up of, and associated with, vast areas ofsand and mudflats surrounded by an unbroken tract ofsaltmarsh. Three major rivers flow through and into thearea. Together these provide extensive habitats forfeeding, roosting and wintering for birds and migratoryhighways for fish. The lowland raised mires sit withinand around the intertidal areas providing further uniquehabitat for wildlife. The outer estuary with its associatedgravel scaurs and pebble beaches are flanked by a linearsand dune system. This theme seeks to address theissues associated with managing the biodiversity andgeodiversity interest found throughout the AONB.

2.2.3 Many organisations are working for the benefit ofwildlife and the protection and creation of quality habitatswithin the AONB. This situation is supported by the AONBPartnership which seeks to provide a landscape-scaleoverview of where resources and expertise would be best

deployed to help secure quality habitat, sanctuary andricher biodiversity. Both the Cumbria Biodiversity ActionPlan (BAP) and HLS targeted species and habitats(Solway Basin Character Area) provide the main focus.However, national and international priorities such as theSolway Firth Marine Site (SPA and SAC) seek to protectboth static (year round) and migratory (seasonal) speciesand the habitats they rely upon (Appendix 1). Thosespecies and habitats that have not been listed aspriorities will be given the same level of conservation andrestoration support through AONB project delivery.


2.2.4 The list below is derived from a number ofsources from public meetings, volunteers, ParishCouncil requests, our State of the AONB Report 2008and the findings of the Strategic EnvironmentalAssessment Scoping Document for this Plan. Furtherdetail can be found in Appendix 1.

21


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

Nat

ural

Her

itage Issues and Forces for Change Evidence

General loss of important habitats across the AONBincluding raised mire, dune grassland, seasonal wetmeadow, reedbed, open freshwater, hedgerows andsmall woodlands due to modern farming methods,land reclamation for agriculture and active coastalerosion.

Loss of active raised mire habitats and morphologydue to on and off-site drainage regimes is damagingan internationally important habitat and itsfunctionality leading to loss of biodiversity and thesubsequent encroachment of heath and woodlandvegetation.

Wildlife in sensitive areas such as roosting, feedingand breeding areas on shingle beaches and saltmarshareas are open to disturbance.

Loss of habitats such as village ponds, field pondsand orchards.

Loss of riverine habitats due to cross sectional re-profiling (canalisation) of water courses.

Bank poaching through stock encroachment on large(old) saltmarsh creeks creating large areas of bankerosion and loss of saltmarsh habitat.

Drainage of saltmarsh ‘tidal-flashes’ creating habitatloss for dabbling ducks and waders.

There has been an unfavourable and decliningcondition of coastal dune grasslands as a directconsequence of grazing stock being removed.

Invasive plant species - encroachment of gorse andragwort into coastal grasslands can become dominantand prevent grassland diversity.

Targeting of Higher Level Stewardship Schemes (HLS) hasprioritised areas of concern in the Solway Basin characterarea and has comprehensively picked up the issues andforces for change. Further enhancements to the schemehave identified species that are threatened and providemeasures for their protection. These include at least 8Cumbria BAP species: Songthrush, Barn Owl, Brown long-eared Bat, Natterer’s Bat, Pipistrelle Bat, Marsh Fritillary,Natterjack Toad and Great-crested Newt (also known asWarty Newt).

Monitoring of mires has shown that many are declining inbiodiversity value due to drying out. Restorationagreements with landowners on land adjacent to the raisedmires is compromising some restoration projects that relyon water retention off the mire. However, there is evidencethat some progress is being made where land can bepurchased by conservation bodies to establish waterretention.

Disturbance takes many forms but is usually from recreationaluse such as walking and through dog walking. This caneffect distribution and breeding success, particularly of birds.Some species that are a feature of the AONB rely on habitatsthat experience high levels of human use such as beaches.

Mainly due to changes in need, water supply, landuse andthe shift from horses to tractors.

Flood alleviation works have reduced the habitats availableto wildlife through bank re-profiling.

Foot fall by cattle is creating large areas of erosion andcollapse along creek edges destroying habitats for sealavender and sea aster. Artificial steep sided creek profilesdue to drainage management also concentrate stock atfavoured crossing points.

By reducing areas of open water through simple drainage‘trenching’, many traditional areas of ephemeral openwater have been reduced to provide more areas for grassproduction to feed sheep and cattle. This also affectssaltmarsh function by reducing the amount of sedimenttrapped on high tides.

SSSI monitoring shows the condition of large areas of thesand dunes is poor. Habitat change has been evidentsince the removal of the grazing stock. However thisdecline could be reversed if a safe grazing solution canbe found. A recent experiment to fence part of the dunesfor conservation livestock grazing has produced animmediate improvement in plant species diversity andsward quality. Further areas are being assessed as totheir suitability for fencing.

Many areas where stock is absent provide ideal habitat forinvasive weeds and shrubs. A planned programme of handpulling ragwort over the past 10 years has done little toreduce its impact. Invasive plants need to be managedaccording to DEFRA guidance where there is no threat tolivestock from potentially poisonous species. In someplaces gorse is being managed on a rotational basis whichis proving effective.


Managem

ent Plan P

art Two N

atural Heritage


Changes in farm practice, and in particularintensification, has led to declines in farmlandwildlife across the AONB, primarily breedingbirds. These species are a key characteristicof the AONB.

Loss of hedgerow and in-field tree standardsand the loss of living field boundaries to postand wire fencing. Encroaching gardening (grasscutting) on grassland commons by adjacentproperty owners is producing a manicured lookas does the now annual Autumn ritual ofhedgerow cutting using flails.

Farmland bird indicators have shown a dramatic declinein a wide range of farmland species. This is reflected inthe AONB where corn bunting, yellow wagtail andcorncrake may now be absent.

Changes in farming techniques have resulted in the loss oflandscape features such as hedgerow and in-field treestandards and the loss of living field boundaries to post andwire fencing. Grass cutting on grassland commons by adjacentproperty owners is changing the character of the common landand is producing a manicured look. Hedge cutting practicesare changing and creating non traditional shaped hedges in thelandscape. Other important features include dressed stoneculverts, gate stoops, stone-faced kests (hedgebanks toppedwith hedges), and dry stone walls. Only small areas ofwoodland occur within the AONB but by their scarcity havebecome important landscape features, providing verticalinterest in an otherwise predominantly flat landscape.

ObjectivesNH1 Objective

The biodiversity and geodiversity of the AONB will beappropriately protected, conserved, enhanced and managed.

Policies

Policy NH1.1 Encourage better management, conservation,restoration and enhancement of important habitats and keyspecies through relevant projects and programmes.

Policy NH1.2 Encourage better management, restoration andenhancement of river system habitats and water quality.

Policy NH1.3 Reduce disturbance to wildlife in sensitive areasensuring that access has minimum impact.

Policy NH1.4 Prevent the loss of important habitat and species.

Policy NH1.4a Improve the management of statutory and nonstatutory wildlife sites.

Policy NH 1.4b Support the enhancement, expansion andconnectivity of small or locally important habitats.

Policy NH 1.4c Support creation and enhancement of new orrestored habitat such as raised mires and river channels.

Policy NH1.5 Reduce invasive and non native plant speciesthat threaten the special character of the area.

Policy NH1.6 Encourage better management of hedgerow, in-field trees and living boundaries to increase biodiversity andenhance the special character of the area.

Policy NH1.1:

Encouragebettermanagement,conservation,restorationandenhancementof importanthabitats andkey speciesthroughrelevantprojects andprogrammes

Theme Natural HeritageObjective Objective NH1 The biodiversity and geodiversity of the AONB will be appropriately

protected, conserved, enhanced and managed

NH1.1.1Provide the lead in ‘Solway Wetlands Project’, a five year nature conservation, heritage and socio-economic scheme with partners, to reach targets for BAP objectives focussed around the raisedmire habitats

NH 1.1.2 Increase the grazing regime on Wolsty Banksto better manage the SSSI towards favourable conditionby working with landowners, Highways and NE toextend the grazing areas and mowing areas on SSSI’sand monitor natterjack toad numbers with HerpetologicalConservation Trust

NH1.1.3 Create a Landscape Trust to manage SSSIs inthe AONB, through use of targeted fundingopportunities, (HLS)


iorit

y

AONB Unit NE, EA, Ongoing Executive 1 EM1.2.3CWT, AdvocateRSPB,

NFU and others

AONB Unit ABC, NE Ongoing Executive 1ABC, PC’sLC, HCT

AONB Unit ABC 2011 Executive 2CaCC


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

Lan

dsc

ape

Policy NH1.2Encouragebettermanagement,restoration &enhancementof riversystemhabitats andwater quality

Policy NH1.3Reducedisturbanceto wildlife insensitiveareasensuring thataccess hasminimumimpact

Policy NH1.4

Prevent theloss ofimportanthabitat andspecies

Theme Natural HeritageObjective Objective NH1 The biodiversity and geodiversity of the AONB will be appropriately

protected, conserved, enhanced and managed

NH1.1.4 Provide a workforce, using primarily theSolway Coast Community Volunteers and local schoolsto hand pull ragwort on the dune system and useappropriate techniques to move fringing gorse wherenecessary

NH1.1.5 Work with Marsh Committees andEnvironment Agency to continue to improve the grazingregimes and saltmarsh management for wildfowlspecies, and habitat restoration

NH1.1.6 Provide information to landowners throughFarming and Wildlife Advisory Group, on improvedhabitat restoration and biodiversity on agricultural land

NH1.2.1 Provide information to landowners andpromote HLS regarding field drainage and bankmanagement, through FWAG using appropriate leaflets

NH1.2.2 Engage with the Environment Agency as tocanalisation of appropriate intertidal riverine habitatsand with regard to flooding protection

NH1.3.1 Provide notices and information in allpublications from the AONB for walkers with dogs insensitive areas, dunes, marshes, peatlands

NH1.3.2 Provide notices for mussel fishers accessingthe beach via the dunes during bird nesting season

NH1.3.3 Provide a ‘Ranger Service/ VolunteerCoordinator’ for the AONB, to patrol the dunesthroughout the year and inform locals, visitors ofdisturbance

NH1.4.1 To work with the Herpetological ConservationTrust in maintaining Natterjack numbers and habitats onthe coast

NH1.4.2 To work with partners in monitoring importantroosting and nesting sites for over wintering wildfowl

NH1.4.3 Continue the annual hedgelaying competition,to champion best practice and encourage better hedgemanagement in the AONB, and to also encouragerestoration of walling and kests

NH1.4.4 Provide the lead in ‘Solway Wetlands Project’,a five year nature conservation, heritage and socio-economic scheme with partners, to reach targets forBAP objectives


iorit

y

AONB Unit Volunteers Annual Executive 2 C1.1a.3Schools, in summer L1.2.6

AONB Unit EA, MC’s 2012 Advocate 2CWT, EA

AONB Unit FWAG 2010 and ExecutiveNE Annually

FWAG AONB 2011 Advocate 2Unit, NECWT, EA

EA AONB 2011 Advocate 2 NH1.4c.4 Unit, NE EM1.1.2

AONB Unit NE, LAG 2010 Catalyst 2

AONB Unit RSPB 2010 Catalyst 1CSFC

AONB Unit ABC, NE Ongoing Executive 1

HCT AONB Ongoing Catalyst 1Unit, AONBVolunteersCWT, NE

WWT, RSPB AONB Ongoing Catalyst 1Unit, NE, Annual

CWT

AONB FLD, NE Annual Executive 1 L1.2.3Unit FWAG, CN

FLD

AONB NE, EA, Ongoing Executive 1 EM1.2.3Unit CWT, Advocate

RSPBNFU and others


Managem

ent Plan P

art Two Land

scape

NH1.4a.1 Provide the lead in ‘Solway Wetlands Project’,a five year nature conservation, heritage and socio-economic scheme with partners, to reach targets forBAP objectives

NH1.4b.1 To provide a workforce, using primarily theSolway Coast Community Volunteers and local schools,to ‘hand-pull’ ragwort on the dune system and to useappropriate techniques to move fringing gorse wherenecessary

NH1.4b.2 To provide a Solway Coast Volunteer Groupto maintain small reserves within the AONB inconjunction with CWT and RSPB Volunteers

NH1.4b.3 Provide the lead in ‘Solway WetlandsProject’, a five year nature conservation, heritage andsocio-economic scheme with partners, to reach targetsfor BAP objectives

NH1.4c.1 Provide the lead in ‘Solway Wetlands Project’,a five year nature conservation, heritage and socio-economic scheme with partners, to reach targets forBAP objectives

NH1.4c.2 Develop a project to restore key featuresidentified as in need of restoration through thePeatlands for People and Solway Wetlands Project

NH1.4c.3 Provide information to landowners andpromote HLS as to field runoff and bank management,through FWAG and appropriate leaflets

NH1.4c.4 Engage with the Environment Agency as tocanalisation of appropriate intertidal riverine habitats andwith regard to flooding protection

NH1.5.1 To provide a work force using primarily theSolway Coast Community Volunteers and local schools,to ‘hand-pull’ ragwort on the dune system and to useappropriate techniques to move fringing gorse wherenecessary

NH1.6.1 Develop and undertake an AONB-wide surveyproject to identify extent and condition of key landscapefeatures for future use as indicators of condition,including hedges, hedgebanks, walls, gate stoops andother priority features identified as neglected in CQCtheme detail sections

NH1.6.2 Continue the annual hedgelaying competition,to champion best practice and encourage better hedgemanagement in the AONB, and to also encouragerestoration of walling and kests

NH1.6.3 Provide information to landowners andpromote HLS , through FWAG and appropriate leaflets


iorit

y

AONB NE, EA, Ongoing Executive 1 EM1.2.3Unit CWT Advocate NH1.1.6

RSPB NH1.2.1NFU andothers

AONB Unit AONB Annual Executive 1 L1.2.6Volunteers,schools,

communities

AONB Unit AONB Ongoing Advocate 1 NH1.4b.2Volunteers,RSPB,CWT

HWDC

AONB Unit NE, EA, Ongoing Executive 1 EM1.2.3CWT, RSPB AdvocateNFU and others

AONB Unit NE, EA, Ongoing Executive 1 EM1.2.3CWT, AdvocateRSPB,

NFU and others

AONB Unit NE, EA, Ongoing Executive 1 EM1.2.3CWT, RSPB, AdvocateNFU and others

FWAG AONB 2011 Advocate NH1.2.1Unit, NE,CWT, EA

EA AONB 2011 Advocate 2 NH1.2.2Unit, NE

AONB Unit AONB Annual Executive 1 L1.2.6Volunteers, NH1.1.6schools,

communities

AONB Unit NE, ABC, 2010 Executive 1 L1.1.2CCC,CaCC

AONB Unit FLD, NE, Annual Executive 1 L1.2.3FLD FWAG,

CN

FWAG AONB 2011 Advocate 2 NH1.2.1Unit, NE,CWT, EA

Policy NH1.4aImprove themanagementof statutory &non statutorywildlife sites

Policy NH1.4b

Support theenhancement,expansion andconnectivity ofsmall or locallyimportanthabitats

Policy NH1.4c

Supportcreation andenhancementof new orrestoredhabitat suchas raisedmires and riverchannels

Policy NH1.5 Reduceinvasive & nonnative plantspecies thatthreaten thespecialcharacter ofthe area

Policy NH1.6

Encourage thebettermanagementof hedgerow,in-field treesand livingboundaries toincreasebiodiversityand enhancethe specialcharacter ofthe area

2.3 Cultural and Built Heritage

Cultural and Built Heritage Vision 2034

The story of the Solway Coast is well known and respectedthrough the provision of access to sites with quality interpretationand visitor services. Landscape evolution through humanendeavour is the connecting theme that has created a context forvisitors to stay and explore the area. All important buildings,traditional farmsteads and conservation areas are being protectedand restored. Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail has had its500,000th walker and has just celebrated its position as a worldleader in sustainable tourism. The local Haaf Net fishery enjoys itsstatus as a Heritage fishery and adds much to the local colour ofthe area.


2.3.1 The Solway’s cultural, political and economic history canbest be told through its extant heritage of man made featuresunderpinned by the written record. The conservation andrestoration of the physical remains of this history is extremelyimportant to the AONB as it is part of the landscape. Theseremains are spatially diverse and reflect the layers of humansettlement, landuse and modification that together tell the story ofthe Solway Coast AONB.

2.3.2 Buildings, settlements, settlement patterns, highways,earthworks, surface features, written records and other elementsall survive today to collectively tell the story of the Solway CoastAONB. However, not all of the information provides evidence todrive the conservation and enhancement of the AONB landscapewhich is the primary purpose of this plan.

2.3.3 To manage the historical environment effectively we need tounderstand it and, in doing so, we can identify appropriate optionsfor action, many to help conserve and enhance it. Our lack ofdetailed understanding with regards to the buildings andsettlements and their spatial distribution will be addressed over thenext five years. Vernacular styles and building fabrics will beunderstood, as will the historic phases of building and expansionor retraction.

2.3.4 To help protect our special and nationally recognisedcultural and built heritage we need to produce guidance to informothers such as planners and developers so that they aresympathetic toward its special qualities.

2.3.5 Access, both intellectual and physical, will be developed totell the story of the Solway Coast.

2.3.6 The best understood heritage feature within the AONB is

Hadrian’s Wall which is designated a World Heritage Site. Thisdesignation, important as it is, has the potential to obscure manyother important historical influences that modified the landscapewe see today, and therefore needs to be seen as one part, albeit avery important one, of the complex history and development of theAONB.

2.3.7 We also have ‘living archaeology’ in the form of HaafNetting, a type of salmon and sea trout fishing handed down fromthe Viking/Anglo-Scandinavian Period using the same basictechnology as it did 1000 years ago.


2.3.8 The list below is derived from a number of sources frompublic meetings, volunteers, Parish Council requests, our State ofthe AONB Report 2008 and the findings of the StrategicEnvironmental Assessment Scoping Document for this Plan.Further detail can be found in Appendix 1.


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

Cul

tura

l and

Bui

lt H

erita

ge


Managem

ent Plan P

art Two C

ultural and B

uilt Heritage


Loss of traditional buildings that reflect the localvernacular style through dereliction, change ofuse and end of use.

There is a lack of published guidance andunderstanding of the vernacular building style(s)of the AONB. This issue applies equally todwellings, farmsteads, religious buildings andother structures.

Lack of understanding of the spatialrelationships of man made features such asditches, field boundaries, field sizes, and theirassociated settlements.

Lack of design guidance and developmentcontrol enforcement to protect the historicalintegrity of building styles and settlements andfeatures, such as cast iron highway signs.

The establishment of a management companyfor Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage site will drivesustainable development objectives throughprojects within the AONB.

Lack of quality access to sites of historicalinterest and their interpretation.

The newly published Hardrian’s Wall WorldHeritage Site Management Plan contains a seriesof actions to be implemented within the AONB.

Haaf Net fishing on the Solway has been subjectto a range of conservation measures to helprestore salmon stocks throughout the Solway’scatchment

Like many areas of the UK traditional farm buildingsare being converted into dwellings with poordetailing and loss of vernacular styles. Fragilebuildings such as those built of clay and wood haveeither completely decayed or are in an advancedstate of dereliction. Changes in need due to modernfarming practices and abandonment of sites arealso factors of concern.

There is no existing design guidance and the existinglandscape character assessment does not includedetails on building styles. A recent surveycommissioned by the AONB Partnership has begunto understand the evolution of farming settlementswithin the area. Further work will report in detail inlate 2009.

Sites on the Sites and Monuments Record (SMR)and monuments under threat register are identified.The historic landscape character assessment hasonly just been completed at a county level and willhelp to better understand and manage the historiclandscape in future.

Inappropriate use of materials such as UPVCwindows in conservation areas and on listedbuildings, and both village extension and infill haveaffected the intrinsic beauty of many settlements.There has been a loss of cast iron highway signsover the last 20 years due to highwayimprovements.

Over the past three years a number of projects havebeen delivered jointly by the AONB Partnership andHadrian’s Wall Heritage Limited (HWHL).

Both well known sites and those closed to the publichave low key access and interpretation. Some of thiswas addressed during the last Management Planperiod but further developments need to address thisissue.

The AONB Partnership will assist and influence theWHS programme in the following areas: sustainablephysical access, developing the visitors’ experienceand understanding of the WHS and buffer zone,sustainable development and economicregeneration, engaging with communities, marketingand education.

The long term survival of the fishery depends on thesustainability of the salmon population and on thesteady recruitment of fishermen from the localcommunity and beyond.


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

Cul

tura

l and

Bui

lt H

erita

ge

ObjectivesCH 1 ObjectiveThe built and cultural heritage of the AONB is appropriately conserved,enhanced and managed and there is a better understanding andappreciation of its special qualities.

Policies Policy CH 1.1 Encourage and support the delivery of schemes thatconserve and enhance the historic environment and localdistinctiveness of the AONB. whilst also protecting the other special

qualities of the area.

Policy CH1.2 Improve and develop appropriate and sustainable accessand improve awareness and understanding of the importance of thecultural and built heritage of the AONB.

Policy CH1.3 Provide advice and encourage planning processes toappropriately conserve, enhance and manage the special cultural andhistoric character of the AONB.

Policy CH1.4 Promote the importance of Haaf Net fishing as animportant ‘Heritage Fishery’ within the Solway Coast.

Policy CH 1.1 Encourage andsupport thedelivery ofschemes thatconserve andenhance thehistoricenvironment and localdistinctiveness ofthe AONB whilstalso protectingthe other specialqualities of thearea

Policy CH1.2 Improve anddevelopappropriate andsustainableaccess andimproveawareness andunderstanding ofthe importance ofthe cultural andbuilt heritage ofthe AONB

Policy CH1.3 Provide adviceand encourageplanningprocesses toappropriatelyconserve,enhance andmanage thespecial culturaland historiccharacter of theAONB

Policy CH1.4Promote theimportance ofHaaf Net fishingas an important‘Heritage Fishery’within the SolwayCoast

Theme Cultural and Built HeritageObjective Objective CH 1 The built and cultural heritage is appropriately conserved, enhanced and

managed and there is a better understanding and appreciation of its special qualities

CH1.1.1 Engage with Natural England, EnglishHeritage and landowners in maintaining andpromoting access to sites of historical interest

CH1.1.2 With partners, produce a baseline survey ofthe state and types of vernacular farmsteads withinthe Solway, with a view to developing a programmewith site owners for restoration and enhancement

CH1.1.3 Encourage Parish Councils to repair andconserve traditional cast iron highway signs

CH1.2.1 Produce a booklet exploring the historicbuildings, farmsteads and vernacular architecture ofthe AONB (possibly adopt as SPD)

CH1.2.2 Produce an Historic Landscape Assessmentof the Solway Coast AONB to complement thecounty wide HLCA

CH1.2.3 Link the cultural interpretation to the storyunderpinning the Solway Coast Discovery Centreexhibition and its associated literature (education)

CH1.3. 1 Comment on planning applications whichwill have a significant impact on the historic landscapecharacter of the AONB and Local Development Policyand Proposals which affect the landscape characterof the AONB and its setting

CH1.4.1 Engage with the Environment Agency on netlimitation orders

CH1.4.2 With partners carry out a project toemphasize the importance of Haaf Net Fishing as a‘Heritage Fishery’ in the Solway Firth


iorit

y

AONB Unit NE, EH, Ongoing Catalyst 2LAG, SAG

AONB Unit EH, FWAG Ongoing Executive 1NE, SAG

AONB Unit PCs, CCC Ongoing Advocate 1

AONB Unit EH, NE, 2011 Executive 3 EA1.1.4ABC, CCC

CaCC

AONB Unit EH, NE, 2010 Executive 1ABC, CCC

CaCC

AONB Unit EH, NE, 2011 Executive 2 EA1.1.1ABC, CCC

CaCC

AONB Unit EH, NE, Ongoing Executive 1ABC, CCC

CaCC

SFP AONB 2011 Catalyst 3Unit, EA,SHNA, EH

SFP AONB 2010 Catalyst 2Unit, EA,SHNA, EH

2.4 The Coast

Coast Vision 2034

The coastline is our greatest asset. Wide panoramasacross the sand, mudflats and saltmarshes to the seaand Scotland beyond are highly regarded. The dunesystems and saltmarshes are well managed and aregrazed using local stock. Coastal erosion and effects ofsea level rise are managed through re-alignmentschemes that respect the special character of the areaand create gains for wildlife as new habitat areas, suchas reed beds and open water, are being developed.People bathe and enjoy watersports away from sensitivecoastal areas. Marine and coastal partners are workingtogether to maintain the vision


2.4.1 With a 59km coastline the AONB is inextricablylinked to the sea and, as such, owes its high landscapevalue to the interface between land and sea. Unlike theopen sea coast, an estuary coast has much moreintimacy between the landscape and seascape and thedynamics of the ebb and flood of the tide is much moreapparent. The edges are blurred creating a truecontinuum from solid to liquid and land to water. TheAONB boundary stops at the mean low water marklimiting our full engagement with the marine environment;that role is usually taken by the Solway Firth Partnership(SFP), an Estuary Partnership on which the AONB has aseat. The UK Marine Bill is currently moulding a differentapproach to coastal management which may place theAONB in a more influential position.

2.4.2 The sea provides the AONB with many thingsfrom wildlife to tranquillity to recreation but it can also bedamaging to habitats, public infrastructure and privateproperty. The greatest threat is the predicted sea levelrise and storminess due to global warming; thisprediction is at the heart of sustainable solutions withinthis Plan. Sustainable fisheries management, safecoastal access, habitat protection and flood defence arethe main issues addressed here.


2.4.3 The list below is derived from a number ofsources from public meetings, volunteers, ParishCouncil requests, our State of the AONB Report 2008and the findings of the Strategic EnvironmentalAssessment Scoping Document for this Plan. Furtherdetail can be found in Appendix 1.


Managem

ent Plan P

art Two The C

oast


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

The

Coa

st


Climate change effects such as sea level rise,river flooding due to higher precipitation levelsand storminess will have a range of damagingeffects on the coastline (see below) and couldresult in a loss of landscape character, culturalheritage and habitats such as sand dune andsaltmarsh.

Inland flooding could be significant causingdamage to properties, infrastructure and largeareas of land, including marine inundation offreshwater habitats.

Temporary or permanent loss of coastaltransport corridors could arise from high winds,flooding and highway erosion.

Coastal squeeze could result in a loss of valuedcoastal habitats and landscapes.

Access to the foreshore by vehicles used in theshellfish industry and casual users such asmotor cyclists, 4x4 users and others aredamaging the coastline and habitats through theerosion of soft sediments. Disturbance tospecies is also an issue.

The Solway Firth has been identified nationallyas having potential to produce tidal energy thatcould contribute towards the UK’s renewableenergy targets. A tidal scheme could have farreaching effects on the character and specialqualities of the AONB coastline and its marinesetting.

Predictions for the UK suggest that over thenext 50-80 years the climatic effects of globalwarming will bring a range of enhancedconditions. Increases in wind speeds andprecipitation and the predicted sea level rise,when combined with a shallow intertidalestuary with soft-sediment shorelines (silt, mud,sand and gravel), has the potential forcatastrophic effects.

The low lying Solway Coast landscape and theintertidal nature of its river estuaries put thearea under threat of coastal flooding. This,when coupled to managed freshwater drainagefor the needs of agriculture, places the area athigher risk when rivers are heavy withfloodwater coupled with high tides.

Throughout the AONB the coastal transportnetwork sits upon a raised beach feature. Insome places within the inner estuary thehighway is frequently inundated by high springtides. Along the B5300 running along theshoreline of the outer estuary, where soft dunesediments are exposed to wave action, thehighway has been subjected to erosion. Tidalsurges created by high tides, high winds andextreme low pressure can damage the highwayduring a single tidal cycle.

The coastal highway and hard flood defencesrestrict the natural movement of habitats.Predicted sea level rise and increasedstorminess and tidal surges could furtheraccelerate coastal squeeze in the future.

Along the outer estuary and, in particular, areasof coastline naturally protected by active sanddune accretion are the areas of most concern.Heavy tyres are creating man made ‘blow-holes’ and natural protection is lost. Whereinundation by the sea occurs through thesebreaches further erosion takes place.

A proposal for an energy barrage that couldprovide highway and recreation opportunities(Solway Energy Gateway Scheme) is beingpromoted. A feasibility study, funded byScottish and English RDA’s is underway.


Managem

ent Plan P

art Two The C

oast


The government is committed to expandingoffshore wind energy and a further round of off-shore windfarm licences have been announcedoff the west Cumbrian coast and south Scottishcoast in the Solway Firth.

Current and future pressures on the coastrequire management. This is achieved throughthe Shoreline Management Plan and process.

Environmental Campaigns (ENCAMS) arepromoting a rural beach award standard toLocal Authorities.

Marine and coastal issues do not stop at theEnglish border and close working on crossborder initiatives is particularly important.

New coastal access needs to be supportedwhilst recognising the need to conserve thespecial qualities of the AONB.

Lack of an evidence base to guide decisionsaffecting the character of the seascape.

Evidence

An increase in offshore wind farms could affect thewide open panoramas that contribute to the speciallandscape character of the area. The visual impactof such schemes is already apparent in thesouthwest end of the AONB due to the building ofthe Robin Rigg offshore windfarm.

The Shoreline Management Plan II (SMP2) processhas been initiated and is being supported by theAONB partnership. The Plan will help guide theoptions for coastal management as has the firstSMP. Over the past ten years therecommendations of the approved SMP have beenfollowed.

With Local Authority support this could helpimprove beach and water quality in the area andcut down on increasing levels of coastal litter. It willalso provide upgrades in amenities such as toiletsand information provision. Rural Beach status hasbeen awarded to LAs throughout the UK.However, authorities in Cumbria have not pursuedthis standard to date.

International conservation designations, the EUWater Framework Directive and other Europeanlegislation requires cross border working.Integrated Coastal Zone Management should bereinforced through the emerging Scottish Marine Billand the UK Marine and Coastal Access Bill.

The Marine and Coastal Access Bill will change theway we manage coastal areas and will securecontinuous coastal access around England.

Seascape assessments have evolved since the lastlandscape character assessment was carried outand an integrated landscape and seascapecharacter assessment would help conserve andmanage the character of the AONB, its coast andmarine setting.


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

The

Coa

st ObjectivesObjective C1 The special qualities of the coastal area and its wider marinesetting are appropriately conserved, enhanced and managed.

Policies Policy C1.1 Encourage action to conserve and enhance the softcoastline (saltmarsh and sand dune) of the Solway Coast.

Policy C1.1a Support good management of the coastal zone thatsupports a variety of coastal uses that are compatible with thespecial qualities of the AONB.

Policy C1.2 Support and encourage action that maintains thehighest standard of bathing water quality and litter managementalong the coastline.

Policy C1.3 Provide advice and encourage planning decisions thatseek to appropriately conserve, enhance and manage the specialcharacter of the coastal part of the AONB and its marine setting.

Policy C1.4 Work with partners to improve the baseline dataavailable to inform condition monitoring and management prioritieswith regard to seascape.

Policy C1.1

Encourageaction toconserve andenhance the softcoastline(saltmarsh andsand dune) ofthe SolwayCoast

Policy C1.1a

Support goodmanagement ofthe coastal zonethat supports avariety of coastaluses that arecompatible withthe specialqualities of theAONB

Theme The CoastObjective Objective C1 The special qualities of the coastal area and its wider

marine setting are appropriately conserved, enhanced and managed

C1.1.1 Liaise with the Environment Agency in theCatchment Flood Management Plan and ShorelineManagement Plan II processes

C1.1.2 Liaise with Cumbria County Council‘Highways’ and all relevant authorities, in theprotection and enhancement of the B5300 Maryportto Silloth coast road

C1.1.3 Engage with Cumbria Sea FisheriesCommittee as to accepted access points for musselfishery vehicles in the sand dune system

C1.1.4 Provide up to date information about tide-times, liable flood risks and the importance ofthe coastal environment and biodiversity

C1.1.5 Develop and produce an updated district-level Landscape and Seascape CharacterAssessment for the AONB and its setting, includingidentification of forces for change, sensitivity,capacity for change and production of managementguidelines

C1.1a.1 To encourage the estuary partnership(Solway Firth Partnership) to raise awareness ofmarine litter and its visual impact and to helppersuade the constituent local authorities to takeaction

C1.1a.2 To provide information and statistics inorder to make informed decisions about coastal carpark provision and subsequent actions and toprovide the relevant authorities with the philosophyunderpinning ‘rural road character’


iorit

y

EA AONB, Ongoing Advocate 2SFP

NE, CCCABC,CaCC

CCC AONB, Ongoing Catalyst 1 TTAR1.3.2ABC, HWH

CSFC AONB, Ongoing Catalyst 2ABC, NE

AONB Unit EA, CWT, Ongoing Advocate 3NE, HCT

AONB Unit NE, LAs Summer Executive 1 L1.1.12010

SFP AONB, Ongoing Catalyst 2 L1.4.3MCS,ABC,CaCCCCC

AONB ABC, 2013 Catalyst 3 L1.1.3CCC,FLD



Policy C1.2

Support andencourageaction thatmaintains thehighest standardof bathing waterquality and littermanagementalong thecoastline

Policy C1.3

Provide adviceand encourageplanningdecisions thatseek toappropriatelyconserve,enhance andmanage protect,maintain andenhance thespecialcharacter of thecoastal part ofthe AONB andits marinesetting

Policy C1.4Work withpartners toimprove thebaseline dataavailable toinform conditionmonitoring andmanagementpriorities withregard toseascape.

C1.1a.3 To provide a workforce, using primarily theSolway Coast Community Volunteers and localschools, to ‘hand-pull’ ragwort on the dune systemand to use appropriate techniques to move fringinggorse where necessary

C1.1a.4 Engage with Cumbria Sea FisheriesCommittee as to accepted access points for musselfishery vehicles in the sand dune system

C1.2.1Support the local authority ENCAMS ruralbeach award standard

C1.2.2 To provide regular volunteer and schoolgroup beach litter picks and liaise with AllerdaleBorough Council with regards to marine litterdisposal

C1.2.3 To encourage the estuary partnership(Solway Firth Partnership) to raise awareness ofmarine litter and its visual impact and to helppersuade the constituent local authorities to takeaction

C1.3.1 Work with Local Authorities, SFP, andcommunities on planning decisions which may affectthe AONB and marine setting

C1.3.2 Work with NE, landowners, and marshcommittees to ensure correct grazing of coastalvegetation

C1.4.1 Engage with European Marine Site managersand others to provide baseline data to providesubject matter for agreed monitoring and reporting ofseascape

Policy Action Initial Partners Timescale AONB Linked Lead Team Role Objective

AONB Schools Ongoing Executive 3 L1.2.6volunteer ABC

group

CSFC AONB, Ongoing Catalyst 2 C1.1.4ABC, NE

ABC AONB, Ongoing Advocate 2Community,EA, MCS,

SFP

AONB ABC, Ongoing Executive 2 CR1.1.2Volunteer Group,

schools,MCS, SFP

SFP AONB, Ongoing Catalyst 2 L1.4.3MCS, ABC

CaCCCCC

ABC AONB, Ongoing Catalyst 1CCC, SFP,

CaCC,NE, EA

NE AONB, Ongoing Catalyst 2EA, FWAG

MC,s,SSWA

AONB Unit NE, EH, Ongoing Catalyst 2SFP LAs

Managem

ent Plan P

art Two The C

oast

Prio

rity


2.5 Environmental Management

Environmental Management Vision

The traditional ground drainage culture is being reversedto provide seasonal wet meadow habitats for breedingbirds. The wider effects of water retention in raised miresand their associated boundary habitats (wet woodland,reed beds and openwater) are being supported throughsympathetic management regimes. The symmetricalnature of drainage channels and rivers (canalisation) hasbeen reversed and natural habitats hold a rich diversity ofspecies. Small woodlands are adding to the mosaic oflandscapes and hedgerow trees stand as sentinels alongtraditional field boundaries.


2.5.1 Environmental Management is defined here asactivities that have a direct impact on the environmentalquality of the area. They include land, water and soilmanagement, all of which are important factors in themaintenance of a healthy environment and subsequentlya healthy landscape.

2.5.2 Landuse in the Solway Coast is directly influencedby its topography and underlying geology. Most of thearea used for agriculture is on the glacial till or boulderclays. These sediments are non-uniform and havepockets of pure clay, pure sand, gravels of various typesand mixtures of all. This gives rise to a range of groundconditions that need to be managed in different ways.Factors such as pH values (usually neutral to mildlyacidic) and drainage patterns also influence landmanagement practices. Peaty soils and pure peatsubstrates occur where raised mire has been reclaimedfor agriculture and these areas are usually managed aslow grade pasture. Both natural (slurry) and man madefertilisers underpin grass regeneration for silage acrossthe Solway area. Some of this fertilizer inevitably finds itsway into watercourses via surface runoff andgroundwater flow, adding to the nutrient enrichment, oreutrophication, of the receiving waters. Eutrophicationreduces water quality and can have severe impacts onthe ecology of affected rivers.

2.5.3 The recent move to maize as a crop has alandscape impact in spring through the use of plasticground covers, and can be a factor in increased soilerosion resulting from its late harvesting in autumn.


2.5.9 The list below is derived from a number of sourcesfrom public meetings, volunteers, Parish Council requests,our State of the AONB Report 2008 and the findings ofthe Strategic Environmental Assessment ScopingDocument for this Plan.


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

Env

ironm

enta

l Man

agem

ent


Managem

ent Plan P

art Two E

nvironmental M

anagement


The historic landscape is being lost throughintensive farming practices and the use ofmodern machinery.

Both silage and straw storage is creating avisually negative element in the landscape.

Small scale woodlands such as shelter belts,copses and plantations are being lost through alack of replenishment..

Potential sources of pollution exist as aconsequence of modern farming techniques..

The Water Framework Directive shouldguarantee water quality from bathing water todrinking water into the future providing ahealthier and pollution free environment withinthe AONB.

Loss of traditional and labour intensivemanagement methods (hedgerow management)is giving way to efficient but indiscriminatemechanised methods which affect landscapecharacter by weakening hedgerow conditionleading to their ultimate loss and replacementby post and wire fencing.

Predicted sea level rise will affect flood defencesystems; the findings of the ShorelineManagement Plan II process will address someof these issues.

Traditional field boundaries are under threat frommodern mechanised farming methods. Flail cutting isreplacing the tradition of Cumberland style hedge-laying and traditional stone faced kests aredisappearing because of re-use of the stone.

The modern grass fodder preservation method ofsilage and the storage of straw is creating landscapeintrusion through large ‘clamp’ buildings andpolythene covered bales being left in fields. Originallythese bales were brought into barns and othercovered storage, but now that they are wrapped inpolythene they can stand in fields until needed.

Replacement of woodland following losses causedby felling, old age, disease and wind damage iscreating a more open landscape

Water pollution from farm wastes such as livestockslurry can be highly damaging, especially in relativelyintensively managed landscapes. The CatchmentSensitive Farming Initiative is being extended tocover some of the AONB, and will promote carefulmanagement of water and wastes to preventpollution in future.

Land management on the Solway Coast hastraditionally centred on land drainage to allow landreclamation for agriculture, and the ‘land drainageculture’ is still with us today. In recent years there hasbeen a subtle shift in how water is managed in theSolway. Habitat restoration and conservation throughwater retention schemes is beginning to be supportedby land managers, particularly through the use ofagricultural stewardship programmes where there areincentives to diversify farm incomes.

The effect of flail cutting is being felt by in-hedgestandard trees that are being continually pruned athedge height and not allowed to mature into astandard.

Climate change is likely to bring about rising sealevels and altered river levels as rainfall patternschange over time. With the strong influence of thesea, rivers and streams on the low-lying AONBlandscape, future environmental management willhave to be flexible to adapt to this changing world


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

Env

ironm

enta

l Man

agem

ent Objectives

Objective EM.1 Land and water management are undertaken usingsustainable methods which seek to conserve and enhancethe special character of the AONB.

PoliciesPolicy EM.1.1 Encourage better management,conservation, restoration and enhancement of river systemhabitats and water quality.

Policy EM.1.2 Promote and support land management,diversification and agri-environment schemes that reflectthe purpose of the AONB.

Policy EM.1.1

Encouragebettermanagement,conservation,restoration andenhancement ofriver systemhabitats andwater quality

Policy EM 1.2

Promote andsupport landmanagement,diversificationand agri-environmentschemes thatreflect thepurpose of theAONB

Theme Environmental ManagementObjective Objective EM.1 Land and water management are undertaken using

sustainable methods which seek to conserve and enhance the special character of the AONB

EM1.1.1 Provide information to landowners andpromote HLS as to field runoff and bankmanagement, through FWAG and appropriate leaflets

EM1.1.2 Engage with the Environment Agency and itsCatchment Sensitive Farming Initiative regardingcanalisation of appropriate intertidal riverine habitatsand with regard to flooding protection

EM1.2.1 Support and advise landowners to accessfunding from Environmental Stewardship andWoodland Grant schemes, ensuring agreementsidentify and target priority landscape features

EM1.2.2 Develop a project to restore key featuresidentified as in need of restoration through the SolwayWetlands Project

EM 1.2.3 Continue the annual hedgelayingcompetition, to champion best practice andencourage better hedge management in the AONB,and to also encourage restoration of walling and kests


iorit

y

EA, NFU NE, EA, Ongoing Executive 1 NH1.2.1RSPB, AONB, CWT,CWT (Solway NFU

Wetland RSPBPartnership) AONB

Solway AONB, EA, Ongoing Executive 2 NH1.2.2Coast AONB NE, SMP IIPartnership

NE NE, AONB Ongoing Advocate 1 L1.2.1

Solway NE, SWP Ongoing Executive 1 LI.2.2Coast AONB Partnership

Solway FLD, NFU, Annual Catalyst 1 L1.2.3Coast AONB CN eventPartnership


Managem

ent Plan P

art Two C

limate C

hange & R

enewab

le Energy

2.6 Climate Change and Renewable Energy

Climate Change and RenewableEnergy Vision 2034

The Solway Coast is playing a major role in carbonsequestration through the growth and restoration of itsraised mires. These massive peat bodies are providingboth containment for historic carbon and the surface areais fixing new carbon through plant growth. The estuaryitself is playing an even greater role through the fixing ofcarbon by molluscs and crustaceans into calciumcarbonate shells and exoskeletons. The farming landscapeis developing appropriate energy crops supporting localenergy production. New housing and developments, suchas extensions, are being built to high environmentalstandards and high energy efficiency. Older houses andbuildings are being retro fitted with small scale renewableenergy sources. The AONB is identified as a carbonneutral protected landscape.


2.6.1 The UK Government is committed to taking actionagainst climate change to help reduce harmful pollutionand emissions and develop ways to manage earth’snatural resources better. It is also developing strategies tosee how the UK can adapt to climate change and mitigateadverse changes resulting from changing globalconditions.

2.6.2 Management of the coast is receiving increasingattention as a national priority, in recognition of theimportance of the coast for conservation and recreation,and increasing pressures on the coast including sea levelrise. The impacts of sea level rise coupled with an increasein storm severity will alter the coastline through suchmechanisms as increased erosion and flooding. The likelyimpact of increased weather activity may be seen throughincreased rates of sediment transfer, flood damage anderosion. The areas most threatened by these pressures willbe the sensitive estuarine environment and the coastalsand dunes. The Management Plan will, whereappropriate, defer to the Shoreline Management Plansdeveloped by the relevant body in order to have an

effective strategy to deal with the pressure ofenvironmental change.

2.6.3 Potential sea level rise and increased stormyweather could have an effect on the character of theSolway Coast that is both positive and negative.

2.6.4 Changes in weather could lead to changes inagriculture leading to more arable land use which will affectlandscape character. This could be particularly obvious ifthere is an increase in arable crops, such as linseed andoilseed rape, which can have a major impact on landscapecharacter in spring and summer when in flower.

2.6.5 A shift to more renewable and low carbon energyproduction could also have an effect on the character ofthe area. The coastal plain and cliffs of Cumbria have ahigh wind resource and the Solway Firth provides asignificant tidal resource.

2.6.6 The Solway Coast is providing a carbon sinkthrough its vast areas of peatland, estuarine mud and sandflats. They all have the potential to sequestrate largeamounts of atmospheric carbon and, through a goodmanagement regime, could be able to help lock upadditional carbon emissions within the AONB over the next30 years.


2.6.7 The list below is derived from a number of sourcesfrom public meetings, volunteers, Parish Council requests,our State of the AONB Report 2008 and the findings of theStrategic Environmental Assessment Scoping Documentfor this Plan.


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

Clim

ate

Cha

nge

& R

enew

able

Ene

rgy


There has been an increasing number of scopingview requests and planning applications forterrestrial wind-farms and wind-clusters adjacentto the AONB boundary.

An increase in offshore wind farms could affectthe wide open panoramas that contribute to thespecial landscape character of the area.

The Solway Firth has been identified nationallyas having potential to produce tidal energy thatcould contribute towards the UK’s renewableenergy targets.

In 2008 the need for new development to beenvironmentally sustainable and to reducecarbon emissions was reflected in nationalplanning guidance.

Thermal shift will change landuse andbiodiversity.

Resource efficiency can assist in reducing theAONB’s carbon footprint. Opportunities toincrease recycling facilities within the AONBshould be developed further to help peoplereduce their waste footprint.

Information is improving on the potential fornatural systems and processes such as carbonsequestration in both peat bodies (anaerobicplant materials) and estuarine mud and silt(calcium carbonate shells and estuarine micro-faunas).

The identified wind resource on the flat coastalplain is generating interest from developers.Following a public inquiry, Park Head Wind Clusterwas approved by the inspector; it lies within 1km ofthe AONB boundary in an area that contributes tothe setting of the AONB.

Further off-shore windfarm licences wereannounced in 2008 along with a renewedcommitment to offshore wind in the UK RenewableEnergy Strategy (2009). The visual impact of suchschemes is already apparent in the south west endof the AONB due to the building of the Robin Riggoffshore windfarm.

A proposal for an energy barrage via a freshwaterlagoon that could also provide highway andrecreation opportunities (Solway Energy GatewayScheme) is being promoted by a local group.Such a tidal scheme could have far reachingeffects on the character and special qualities of theAONB coastline and its marine setting. A feasibilitystudy, funded by Scottish and English RDA’s isunderway.

Local planning policy will change to reflect thisduring the period of the Plan. Specifications fornew low energy housing and on site renewableenergy generation need to be compatible with thelocal vernacular style.

Seasonal temperature, precipitation and sunlightwill affect the climate preferences of a wide rangeof flora and fauna causing geographical changes intheir range. Agriculture will also be affected byhigher rainfall and thermal shifts creating differentgrowing conditions for plants.

The current situation, whilst good and meetingnational standards, could be further improved, forexample with regard to farm waste in rural areas.Cooperation across administrative boundaries isalready happening to increase the amount ofmaterials re-cycled within the AONB.

The AONB has a high potential for fixing carbon(sinking) by natural storage (sequestration). Largeareas of sand and mud flats, saltmarshes, dunesand raised mires, when fully functioning, will fix andretain carbon for millennia. Areas of the resourceare not functioning or are compromised due tomodification by man. Restoration of naturalhabitats is the key to increase their storagepotential.


Managem

ent Plan P

art Two C

limate C

hange & R

enewab

le Energy

Objectives

Objective CR1The natural resources of the AONB are managed in asustainable manner, maximising the opportunities to supportclimate change adaptation and mitigation and ensuring,wherever possible, that measures are compatible with theAONB purpose.

Policies Policy CR1.1 Support and encourage schemes that will helpto reduce, recycle and re-use waste in a sustainable mannerwhilst respecting the landscape character of the AONB.

Policy CR1.2 Engage with developers and RelevantAuthorities to minimise possible impacts arising fromclimate change ensuring that any measures are compatiblewith AONB conservation objectives and works are inaccordance with the principles of sustainabledevelopment.

Policy CR1.3 Support environmental and renewable energyschemes, actions, programmes and policy that respect thearea’s special qualities.

Policy CR1.4 Support research and reporting on carbonsequestration within the AONB.

Policy CR1.1 Support &encourageschemes that willhelp to reduce,recycle and re-usewaste in asustainable mannerwhilst respecting thelandscape characterof the AONB

Policy CR1.2 Engage withdevelopers & RelevantAuthorities to minimisepossible impactsarising from climatechange ensuring thatany measures arecompatible with AONBconservationobjectives & works arein accordance with theprinciples ofsustainabledevelopment

Policy CR1.3Supportenvironmental andrenewable energyschemes, actions,programmes andpolicy that respectthe area’s specialqualities

Policy CR1.4 4Support research &reporting on carbonsequestrationwithin the AONB

Theme Climate and RenewablesObjective Objective CR1 The natural resources of the AONB are managed in a sustainable manner,

maximising the opportunities to support climate change adaptation and mitigation and ensuring, wherever possible, that measures are compatible with the AONB purpose

CR1.1.1 Engage with the local authorities indesigning recycling schemes and sites within theAONB

CR1.1.2 To provide regular volunteer and schoolgroup beach litter picks and liaise with AllerdaleBorough Council with regards to marine litterdisposal

CR1.2.1 Undertake a base line study with theEnvironment Agency and other partners of theimplications of climate change to the landscape ofthe AONB

CR1.3.1 Develop and produce an updated district-level Landscape Character Assessment for theAONB and its setting, including identification offorces for change, sensitivity, capacity for changeand production of management guidelines

CR1.3.2 To consider, in the light of emergingevidence, how the AONB landscape will beaffected by climate change

CR1.3.3 To support renewable energy schemesthrough SDF in keeping with the sustainablemanagement of the landscape

CR.1.4.1 To work with the Environment Agencyand other organizations (Solway Wetland Project)to provide research on carbon sequestration


iorit

y

ABC, CaCC AONB Ongoing Advocate 2CCC

AONB Unit ABC, MCS, Ongoing Catalyst 2 C1.2.2Shools,

Volunteer Group

EA,CCC AONB, 2013 Catalyst 3 CR1.3.2ABC,CaCC,

NE, RSPB

AONB CCC, NE, 2011 Executive 1 L1.1.1

EH, EA

EA, CCC AONB, 2014 Catalyst 2ABC, SFP

CaCC,NE, FLD,

AONB NE, FLD Ongoing Executive 2

NE, EA AONB, 2014 Catalyst 2RSPB,

CWT, NFU

2.7 Tourism, Transport, Access andRecreationTourism, Transport, Access and RecreationVision 2034

Solway Coast has regained its position as a traditionalseaside destination, with most visitor activity centred onAllonby and Silloth. Windsurfing, sea angling and kite flyingall have national centres within the AONB. Passiverecreation has grown due to the marketing andimplementation of ‘Quiet Lanes’ where cyclists, walkersand horse riders enjoy the tranquillity of the area. Tourismrelated businesses have grown to include stables, cyclestores and repairers and outdoor clothing outlets.Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail has had no impact onthe landscape but has provided an opportunity for newvisitors to see the AONB and all its treasures. New visitorattractions have grown including local produce marketsand the annual country fair rivals the larger national showsin terms of visitor numbers. Visitors come all year round tosee the seasonal bird spectacle on the Solway butespecially in winter. Bird watching tours are provided bylocal businesses. Tourism and recreation is marketedthrough the ‘England’s Solway Coast’ brand imageforming part of a Cumbrian family of destinations. A recentsurvey has shown that the traditional outdoor sector of thetourism market prefers the experience of AONBs to anyother area.

The Rights of Way network is maintained to a highstandard. Highwaysignage is traditional,villages have theirown traffic schemes,and street lighting istraditional and lowkey or non existent,fitting in with thelandscape. The LocalTransport Partnershipmanages thebespoke public

transport provision through the voice of local people,benefiting both locals and visitors thus ensuringsustainable outcomes. Services are brought intosettlements though a local service vehicle that forms thenucleus for small-scale street and village green markets.Provision has been made to park cars away from the

frontages of houses within certain settlements, thussecuring aesthetic gains. Annual surveys maintain thesustainability of the transport network, where problemsare identified and damaged infrastructure is replaced.


2.7.1 The combination of tourism, transport, access andrecreation reflects the double role of a coastal AONB. Onthe one hand, people visit the area because it is an AONBbut more people visit because it is ‘by the seaside’. Thetraditional user of theEnglish SolwayCoast began doingso with the changesin transport such asthe train and motorvehicle over 100years ago. Thepopularity of seasideholidays created thegrowth in Silloth,Allonby and othervillages. It also developed transport links, car parks,public amenities, access to the shoreline and ultimatelyrecreation from swimming to birdwatching.

2.7.2 Public enjoyment through recreation can have bothpositive and negative effects on the landscape andeconomic growth can lead to a reduction in tranquillity.Greater tranquillity can alienate those who seek groupbased recreational activities. So a balance must besought to cater for a wide spectrum of needs and thepotential impacts they may impose on the landscape.Whilst recreation is not a primary purpose of designation,it is recognised that demand should be met provided itdoes not harm conservation or natural beauty, or theneeds of other uses.

Tourism

2.7.3 Tourism is second only to farming in its importanceto the local economy and is a major employer in the area.The principal recreational activities are informal – walking,cycling, bird watching, fishing and swimming. Allonby alsoattracts windsurfers. Survey data regarding visitor make-up is not currently available but it is thought that dayvisitors come chiefly from Carlisle and north Cumbria andfrom the northern Lake District; staying visitors aredominated by traditional seaside holidays based at the


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

Tou

rism

, Tr

ansp

ort,

Acc

ess

& R

ecre

atio

n


Managem

ent Plan P

art Two Tourism

, Transport, A

ccess & R

ecreationcoastal chalet and caravan parks. There are ninecaravan parks, eight of them situated in the south of theAONB, 2 hotels, 1 guest house and a number of pubswhich cater for these staying visitors. Data available forthe whole of Cumbria suggest that visitors to this areaare more likely to stay for a shorter time and spend lessthan in other areas, such as South Lakeland. Tourismactivity in Cumbria (and the AONB) and the consequenttourism revenue is subject to seasonal variations, July toSeptember being the busiest part of the year. Revenuecreated by tourism activity is a key measure of adestination’s performance. In 2006, Carlisle accountedfor 11.2% and Allerdale 18.1% of the tourist revenue toCumbria. In comparison, South Lakeland accounted for43.5% and the Lake District National Park (LDNP)56.3%.

2.7.4 Although visitor numbers recorded by bothAllerdale Borough Council and Carlisle City Council (andacross Cumbria) have shown a recent downward trend,the number of visitors to the AONB specifically is rising,mainly as a result of the designation of Hadrian’s Wall asa World Heritage Site and the development of theHadrian’s Wall Cycleway and Trail (opened in May 2003).Further development of tourism within the AONB as acontributor to the local economy is important butmanaging this increase while at the same timeprotecting the special qualities of the AONB is a keychallenge for the future.

Transport

2.7.5 The National Cycle Network Route 72 passesthrough the AONB (the Hadrian’s Wall Cycleway) andpart of the Cumbria Cycle Way between Silloth toMaryport (this is considered too dangerous by cyclingenthusiasts). A purpose built cycle path has beenproposed between Silloth, Allonby and Maryport toboost tourism. Within the AONB cycling is becomingmore popular.

Access

2.7.6 The Solway Coast has a vast resource of accessroutes throughout the area. Recently the CumbriaCountryside and Access Partnership and the LocalAccess Forums (LAFs) have been set up to providemanagement and development of the networkthroughout Cumbria. There are 1449 km of footpathsand 20.3 km of bridleways in the area and 1 byway isopen to all traffic. Open Access has been secured in fiveareas within the AONB: Silloth and Mawbray Bank,Burgh Marsh, Skinburness Marsh, Bowness Commonand Glasson Moss. Mapping is already underway tocreate a coastal footpath meeting the needs of the Marine and Coastal Access Bill. Three long distancefootpaths pass through the AONB: the Cumbria Coastal Way, the Hadrian’s Wall PathNational Trail and the Allerdale Ramble which extendsnorthwards along the shore as far as Grune Point. Thereare also 11.4km of Easy Access walks.

Recreation

2.7.7 There are many recreational pressures on the

AONB and especially in the south west section or SandDune Coast. Much of the pressure is passive and non-damaging such as walking, bathing, picnicking, windsurfing and angling to name a few. Recreation may bedamaging to the landscape, habitats and tranquility. Motorcycle, quad bike and 4x4 users are illegally using thedunes and foreshore to test the limits of their vehicles; theconsequence is wholesale damage of ecosystems andtranquility. Jet skis are creating problems along tidal birdroosting sites.

Tranquillity

2.7.8 The tranquillity of the Solway Coast AONB is one ofits key features. Its remoteness and wildness are also partof its special qualities. The Council for the Protection ofRural England Tranquillity Map is available for Cumbria.The detail is somewhat inadequate at AONB level.However, the AONB generally is mapped as a ‘mosttranquil’ area with the level of tranquillity decreasingslightly in the southern area of the AONB along the coastfrom Silloth to Maryport. The impact of the roads ontranquillity is clearly seen. Increasing visitor numbers,increasing car use, improved access and changingrecreational activities may lead to a decrease in tranquillitywithin the AONB.


2.7.9 As described above, this large theme encompassesa range of subject matter, but increasingly, along withpartner organisations, the AONB are planning anddeveloping joint solutions in a holistic way.


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

Tou

rism

, Tr

ansp

ort,

Acc

ess

& R

ecre

atio

n


Few of our rights of way are in good conditionor are easily accessible.

Access to historic sites is limited andopportunities need to be taken to increaseaccess provision through new accessagreements.

The Marine and Coastal Access Bill will beintroduced in 2009 and will include provisionsto increase open access around the coast ofEngland.

The rural character of the AONB’s roads andlanes should be used to encourage greaterenjoyment of the AONB by walkers, cyclistsand equestrians.

The area has untapped potential to becomean eco-tourism destination due to its highquality landscape, high levels of natureconservation interest and abundant birdlife.Sensitively designed and sited infrastructureneeds to be provided to support this. TheDiscovery Centre ‘Gateway’ should bedeveloped to reinforce the area as an ecodestination.

As visitor numbers increase and people areencouraged to use alternative transport to thecar, better understanding of walking, cyclingand riding routes is needed.

A recent survey of all rights of way in Cumbria hashighlighted the need to work with CumbriaCountryside and Access Partnership to securesustainable solutions to RoW provision.

Recent developments at a historical site in theAONB have provided an approach to secure safeand multi-user access. Using Higher LevelStewardship (HLS) new access has been agreedwith landowners. The model should be used tosecure more provision of this sort.

As some parts of the area will be more sensitivethan others to increased coastal access, forexample protected wildlife habitats, thePartnership will need to work closely with otherpartners, especially Cumbria Countryside andAccess Partnership, so helping to deliver thisagenda to ensure access along the coast iscompatible with the special qualities of the area.

The Management Plan seeks to encourage betterand safer access for visitors and walkers, cyclistsand equestrians. The area is criss-crossed byminor roads with blind bends, high hedgerows,concealed junctions and raised verges which arerural in character and could benefit fromimprovements to encourage greater enjoyment ofthe AONB. The above characteristics shouldprovide a relatively solid basis for the introductionof the ‘quiet lanes’ initiative on all roads(designated C or less) which is designed toprovide greater safety to all highway users such aswalkers, cyclists and equestrians.

The Solway Coast has the potential to provide aninternational focus for wildlife based recreation.The range of habitats and abundant wildlife shouldbe showcased and provided for through themarketing of a wide package of initiatives.

During the last Management Plan period fourguides were published on walking, cycling,birdwatching and botany in the area. These haveproved popular, with high sales, and haveencouraged people to explore the special qualitiesof the area, by means other than the car, and stayin the area for longer. There is a need to providemore guides on other themes and parts of theAONB.


There is a need to encourage farm diversificationprojects to improve the amount of quality visitoraccommodation and attractions in the area.

Opportunities need to be supported that seek tomarket the natural assets of the area in asustainable way to help extend the tourismseason.

One of the things that makes the area special isits relative remoteness, which is sometimesobvious from the intricate network of roads thatlead to and through the area.

Cycling as a way of enjoying the AONB should besupported and encouraged. This can helpmitigate against climate change effects andreduce motorised vehicles in the AONB.

Conflicts can arise along the B5300 coast roadbetween vehicles, walkers, cyclists andequestrians.

Rural road character is being eroded through un-sympathetic use of materials, signs anddesigns and the countryside highways andbyways are taking on a more urban character.This situation needs to be addressed and qualityguidelines drawn up.

An integrated transport system needs to bedeveloped that encompasses rail, bus andcycling to access and explore the AONB.

The provision of advice, funding and networks shouldbe encouraged to provide more and better qualityholiday accommodation for visitors.

The area provides great recreational opportunitiesthroughout the year, particularly for walking and birdwatching, that are currently under-used or less wellknown.

Signage to the area is still limited and furtherdevelopment of the ‘England’s Solway Coast’ highwaybranding would help raise awareness to motorists andvisitors travelling on the M6 corridor of the proximity ofthe AONB. Recent work in the North AllerdalePartnership (NAP) area has begun to deliver thisinitiative.

The Hadrian’s Wall cycle route has recently beenextended to Ravenglass and runs through the AONB.However, there are some key areas that need to beenhanced to improve cyclist experience. A feasibilitystudy is being carried out for the completion of a saferoute through Allonby and Crosscanonby to helpaddress this issue. Implementation of this initiativeneeds to be supported.

This road is popular with visitors to the area, and isthe main route along the coast for people living andworking in the area. The road can be busy andconflicts can occur. Steps have already been taken tocalm traffic, develop a tourist route and create saferaccess along the B5300 coast road. Issues underconsideration include use, parking provision, access,traffic calming, cycle improvements and signage.

Road signage clutter and shared poles is giving a non-planned and ad-hoc look to rural byways. Usingtraditional cast iron finger signs as a basis forconservation, other signage should be sympathetic totheir charm.

The Hadrian’s Wall bus is the only integrated transportsolution that exists in the AONB. Services like thisneed to be expanded to get people around theAONB. Links to rail, bus, cycle routes and rights ofway need to be explored to provide sustainableaccess to the area and reduce the reliance on theprivate car.


Managem

ent Plan P

art Two Tourism

, Transport, A

ccess & R

ecreation


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

Tou

rism

, Tr

ansp

ort,

Acc

ess

& R

ecre

atio

n ObjectivesObjective TTAR1Sustainable access, recreation, tourism and transport,which are compatible with the area’s special qualities, issupported.

Policies Policy TTAR1.1 Encourage and support improved accessfor a diverse range of users that maintains, protects andenhances the special qualities of the area.

Policy TTAR1.2 Encourage and support sustainable tourismactivities and development within the AONB which respect,enhance and promote its special qualities.

Policy TTAR 1.3 Protect and enhance the AONBs specialcharacter through safe and sustainable access for residentsand visitors to, from and within the area.

Policy TTAR 1.4 Support and promote the development ofthe area as an eco-tourism destination whilst maintaining itsspecial qualities.

Policy TTAR1.1Encourage andsupport improvedaccess for a diverserange of users thatmaintains, protectsand enhances thespecial qualities ofthe area

Policy TTAR1.2Encourage andsupport sustainabletourism activitiesand developmentwithin the AONBwhich respect,enhance andpromote its specialqualities

Policy TTAR 1.3Protect and enhancethe AONB’s specialcharacter throughsafe and sustainableaccess for residentsand visitors to, fromand within the area

Policy TTAR 1.4 Support andpromote thedevelopment of thearea as an eco-tourism destinationwhilst maintaining itsspecial qualities

Theme Tourism, Transport, Access and RecreationObjective Objective TTAR1 Sustainable access, recreation, tourism and transport,

which are compatible with the area’s special qualities, is supported

TTAR1.1.1 In partnership with CumbriaCountryside Access Partnership Group, monitorand improve the rights of way network andrecreational facilities in the AONB

TTAR1.1.2 Engage with AONB Parishes to take upParish Path Initiatives and provide funding throughSDF to upgrade and maintain local pathways

TTAR1.1.3 Support Natural England and promoteHLF schemes to landowners to increase newaccess agreements

TTAR1.2.1 To provide 1 guidebook per yearhighlighting the AONB and its special qualities andrecreational possibilities

TTAR1.2.2 Engage with local accommodationbusinesses and provide incentives and informationfor tourists to stay in the AONB for a longerduration

TTAR1.3.1 To help secure 50km of Quiet Laneswithin the AONB by year 5 of the plan

TTAR1.3.2 Develop a project and bid for fundingto improve a range of B5300 issues (documentyear 1, funding and implementation year 2)including Hadrian’s Wall cycleway completion

TTAR1.3.3 To provide the maximum possible areafor safe coastal access within the AONB

TTAR1.4.1To help Partnership link the AONB totheir sustainable transport initiatives

TTAR 1.4.2 Complete the England’s Solway Coastsignage from the M6 corridor.


iorit

y

CCC CCAP, Ongoing Advocate 2AONB,Capita

CCC CCAP, Ongoing Advocate 2AONB, NE

(SDF),PCs, FLD

NE AONB, Ongoing Advocate 2FWAG,CCC

AONB Unit CT, NE 2010- Executive 3(SDF), 2014RSPB,CCC,

T&CP, EH,EA

AONB Unit CT, T&CP, Ongoing Catalyst 3local busin-

esses,PCs, TIC,

HWH

CCC AONB, 2014 Catalyst 3Capita,

HWH, ABC,CaCC

CCC AONB, 2010 Catalyst 1HWH, ABC -2012

CCC AONB, 2010 Catalyst 1ABC,HWH

AONB Unit CCC, ABC, 2012 Executive 2CT, NE

AONB Unit CCC, ABC, 2012 ExecutiveCT, NE


Managem

ent Plan P

art Two E

ducation &

Aw

areness

2.8 Education and Awareness

Education and Awareness Vision 2034

The special qualities of the Solway Coast are wellunderstood, especially by land managers, local people andvisitors. Communities celebrate their part within the AONBthrough carnivals, interpretation through art and othercommunity based activities. Local schools and collegesuse the area as a resource and fully understand the statusof the area along side the National Park. The Solway CoastDiscovery Centre is a gateway to learning in the AONB. Thenatural resources of the area are understood and contributeto the natural economy sector. Through education andinterpretation the AONB is well known, respected andunderstood, and above all, well looked after.

Scope of Theme and Evidence

2.8.1 Many people visit and live in the area and we want toengage with as many of them as possible, from schools tofamilies, from development agencies to small businesses,to visitors and the local community. People can learnabout the area in different ways, through guides, walkroutes, and news articles, through our Discovery Centreexhibition or through special programmes such as ourschool visits (education programme). The term ‘Area ofOutstanding Natural Beauty’ is very descriptive and couldapply to anywhere with credentials of this nature, not justto a designated landscape. The acronym AONB is an evenmore ambiguous term for a designated landscape. Publicawareness of the designation is, as a direct consequenceof the name, low. From this extremely low baseline andwith no sign of a name change in the foreseeable futurewe must first define an AONB before we go onto the moreimportant role of awareness and education regarding thelandscape elements which makeup Solway Coast AONB.AONBs were designated on behalf of the nation for theirspecial qualities/ characteristics, sometimes unique to thatAONB. In order to place a value on that asset we mustarticulate it to the public and we can only do that througha carefully measured education and awarenessprogramme. By understanding what makes the areasspecial, people can enjoy and look after the area better.

Education

2.8.2 Education lies at the heart of this plan; without anawareness and a consequent respect for the AONB wecannot hope to provide for its future as a national treasure,an economic driver or a great place to live or visit. The

AONB Partnership has a key role in raising awarenessregarding the special qualities of the AONB.

2.8.3 Environmental education is provided by the SolwayCoast AONB Education Officer through the use ofupdated facilities in the Solway Coast Discovery Centreand coastal based activities (outdoor classroom) rangingfrom art on the beach to identifying wildlife and varioushabitats, all of which explain the uniqueness of the AONB.The classification of marine litter also takes place to betterunderstand how to target awareness raising on this issue.In 2008 nearly 800 children from 24 school groups from20 schools (including 3 from within the AONB) havereceived elements of our education programme. Thenumber is growing annually.

2.8.4 Information is provided to help raise awareness onthe area’s special qualities via a range of media, from theAONB website to the AONB publications. The SolwayDiscovery Centre provides an education and informationgateway to the AONB. Our logo and the new ‘England’sSolway Coast’ tourism signage have created a uniquebrand image to help encourage people to visit and findout more about the AONB. It is planned to developsecondary and primary signage to help visitors explorethe AONB once they have arrived there.

2.8.5 The Solway Coast Young Ranger Group is led bythe Volunteer Coordinator and activities are run

throughout the year to involve schoolchildren of all ages inactivities related to the landscape management of theAONB. New leaflets are produced regularly from the AONBUnit which inform the public about the AONB and directexploration within it, including walking, cycling,birdwatching, wildflower identification, village interpretation,volunteering.. The Peatlands for People Project, a partnerled project, provides information about the Solway Wetlands(raised mires) to a wide audience, and includes activities

related to the raised mires for all ages and improvedaccess and information. Information technology is beingpromoted through the business sector and the AONBwebsite provides regular information updates. Other waysin which people are informed about the AONB includeinterpretation boards, events, walks, the media, theSustainable Development Fund, Rights of Way markersand Open Access interpretation.


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

Ed

ucat

ion

& A

war

enes

s


The special qualities of the AONB need to beunderstood and communicated to a wideaudience now more than ever, exploiting the fullrange of mixed media available to helpencourage people to conserve and enhance theAONB.

The AONB needs to reach a wider audiencethan children as part of its educationprogramme, to involve landowners, residentsand visitors alike.

There is a need to provide better informationservices and a ‘gateway’ through the SolwayDiscovery Centre to help raise awareness onthe area’s special qualities and activities thatpeople can do to enjoy them.

There is a need to better understand and enjoythe peatlands and wider wetlands within theAONB, particularly their historic and modernrole in climate change mitigation.

Information is needed to help people betterunderstand features and areas within the AONBthat are vulnerable to damage and/or change,such as coastal changes through erosion anddeposition, changes to traditional farmingpractices and the consequences of visitorpressure on fragile landscapes.

The AONB provides an educational and awarenessraising resource through the Discovery Centre, itsconference, newsletter, press releases and website.However, as people learn and find out about thingsthrough other ways, approaches are needed torespond to this, such as podcasts, and other webrelated media.

During 2007/8 over 1100 students from primary tocollege age learnt specifically about the AONB byvisiting the AONB. This helps support the AONB andthe National Curriculum. Opportunities with schoolsand colleges continues to develop, especially as theNational Curriculum focuses on issues such as climatechange, sustainability, natural resources, history andgeology. There is also a trend towards developing‘Outdoor Classrooms’. However, education andawareness raising needs to go beyond this as visitors,residents, landowners and managers can influenceand enhance the special qualities of the AONB. Thereis a need to secure funding to develop a new postwithin the AONB Unit to develop this area further.

Gateway sites have proven success records as onestop shops and awareness centres. 2008 saw therefurbishment of The Solway Coast Discovery Centreand its information & edu-cational resource to help withthis goal, & further steps are needed to develop theGateway.

Ongoing partnership with the Solway WetlandsPartnership is providing a much needed ‘joined-up’approach to educational issues facing manyorganisations working within the AONB.

Visitor pressure in certain areas, coupled with misuse,is destroying the very qualities visitors come to theAONB to enjoy. Changes to farming has changed theagricultural landscape but recent CAP reforms hope toreverse the trend with a return to more traditionalforms of agriculture.


Managem

ent Plan P

art Two E

ducation &

Aw

areness

ObjectivesObjective EA 1

There is greater awareness of the AONB’s special qualities,purpose for designation and the range of opportunities forenvironmental education within it.

Policies

Policy EA1.1 To provide a comprehensive and high quality

educational resource to support local and regional schoolsand colleges meet their curriculum needs.

Policy EA1.1.2 Promote the awareness and understandingof the special qualities and vulnerabilities of the AONB.

Policy EA1.1.3 Promote good practice within the AONBthrough mixed media to guide the user.

Policy EA1.1

To provide acomprehensiveand high qualityeducationalresource tosupport local andregional schoolsand colleges meettheir curriculumneeds

Policy EA1.2

Promote theawareness andunderstanding ofthe specialqualities andvulnerabilities ofthe AONB

Policy EA1.3Promote goodpractice within theAONB throughmixed media toguide the user

Theme Education and AwarenessObjective Objective EA1 There is greater awareness of the AONB’s special qualities,

purpose for designation and the range of opportunities for environmental education within it

EA1.1.1 To continually assess, and whereappropriate, update AONB education messageand its delivery to all age groups

EA1.1.2 To continually update our schools’ andcolleges’ ‘package’ to meet the needs of thecurriculum and to improve the ‘Silloth/SolwayCoast Experience’ for students

EA1.1.3 To provide an evolvingshowcase/gateway for the AONB covering all ofits assets

EA1.1.4 To continue with our programme of guidebooks and web information

EA1.2.1 Implement phase two of the signagestrategy

EA1.2.2 Develop a sense of place toolkit for useby tourism businesses, to ensure consistentpromotion of special qualities

EA1.2.3 Produce new booklets including climatechange effects

EA1.2.4 Research and implement new methodsof promoting the AONB using informationtechnology (mobiles, web, pod casts)\

EAI.3.1 Provide updated information about thespecial landscape and the need to care andprotect it (leaflets, web, Discovery Centre)


iorit

y

AONB Unit CCC, Ongoing Executive 1 CH1.2.1SchoolsColleges

AONB Unit CCC, Ongoing Executive 1Schools,Colleges

AONB Unit ABC, CT, Ongoing Executive 2 TIC

AONB Unit CT, ABC, Ongoing Executive 2

NE (SDF)

AONB Unit CCC, ABC, 2012 Executive 1Capita

AONB Unit CT, T&CP, 2014 Catalyst 3NE, CCC

AONB Unit CCC, EA, 2010 Executive 3NE (SDF) -2014

AONB Unit ABC, CCC 2014 Catalyst 3

AONB Unit ABC, CT, Ongoing Advocate 2RSPB,

EA, TIC,NE

2.9 Economy and Community

Economy and Community Vision

Villages look and feel part of the AONB through sensitivedesign and building extensions, high quality signage andinfrastructure. Developments over the past 25 years havebeen sympathetic to the local vernacular style. Redundantbuildings have been brought back into use. New buildingshave been built in an eco-friendly way and are designedand sited to reflect the wider landscape character. Ruralbusinesses have developed without compromising theintegrity of settlements. There are thriving rural businesspartnerships delivering sustainable economic growththrough traditional crafts, IT based products andconsultancies. Services are delivered to settlementsthrough an integrated ‘mobile services and market unit’ runby local people. The diversification of farm incomes hascreated employment within rural areas and traditionalfarming practices have flourished and drive a local ruralskills base. Local people work in the area and have accessto an adequate supply of local housing. Village pubs arethriving through the development of Solway producemenus, as are village schools as young families haveincreased in the area. The local wild shellfish gatheringoperation enjoys the cooperative approach to gatheringand marketing Solway produce along with its employmentand economic benefits.

Scope of Theme and evidence

2.9.1 Community needs and economic prosperity lie at theheart of this section and are inextricably linked. As pointed

out in earlier sections visitors are also dependent oncommunity services when visiting an area. Provisions suchas shops, pubs, restaurants, public transport and otherinfrastructure, that support communities all year round, areimportant to visitors also.

2.9.2 Further community provision through quality schools,affordable housing and communication networks areessential building blocks to create sustainable communitywell being and pride. The Solway Coast AONB liesadjacent to areas of employment such as Carlisle,Maryport/Workington, Wigton, Aspatria and Silloth andmany in the community commute to these centres. Otheremployment, within the AONB, includes tourism supportthrough small scale accommodation provision and caravanparks. The largest employer within the AONB is agricultureand this is centred on family employment with little externalprovision for farm workers with the exception of farms withlarger land holdings. Micro businesses that are home-based are growing within the AONB. These includeinternet retail businesses, writers, IT specialists,photographers, artists and film editors to name a few. Thedevelopment of the local economy in a sustainable way isimportant to preserve the character of the Solway CoastAONB and its intrinsic landscape values and support it as aliving landscape.


2.9.3 The AONB designation can directly help the localcommunity and its economy, based on the statisticsprovided in Appendix 1. The following suite of issues areunderpinned by the initiatives that the AONB can provide toimprove and, in some cases, initiate change to providecommunity wellbeing and economic growth.


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

Eco

nom

y &

Com

mun

ity

49

Managem

ent Plan P

art Two E

conomy &

Com

munity



As village communities and buildings changeover time there can be a loss of local historyand distinctiveness. This could erode thecontribution the villages make to the area’soverall special character.

Although the use of cars is not encouraged asthe primary means of transport within theAONB, reality dictates that the localcommunity and visitors rely on cars, especiallythe more remote communities.

On-street parking provision in villages canhave a detrimental impact on village character.

The provision of public toilets along walkingand cycling routes and within villages isimportant for visitors.

The farming hinterland found throughout thearea supports sheep and cattle farming andthe coast supports a range of wild fish andshellfish.

Sustainable, organic farming such as salt fedlamb should be encouraged to help managethe marsh areas better and increaseawareness of the qualities of the AONB.

Small scale business can be vulnerable tomarket changes and need to be retained inthe AONB to support a vibrant economy andcommunity.

It is important to understand and celebrate localidentity or ‘sense of place’ at the village/settlementlevel. The existing landscape character assessmentdescribes some of the local vernacular and settlementcharacter, but is limited in its approach. It is unlikelythat this will be addressed in detail through anylandscape character review work. Opportunities tocapture such detail and for local communities tocelebrate and reveal their individual distinctiveness andhistories will be developed.

Car use by visitors is an increasing issue and theprovision of quality car parks along the B5300 coastroad is a problem. Bus services and cycle ways androutes are limited. This has been recognised throughan initiative to up-grade the B5300 and its associatedtransport infrastructure which is underway.

Some villages are popular visitor destinations, such asPort Carlisle and Bowness on Solway, but have limitedon-street parking and no off-street parking facilities.This is further exacerbated through visitors usingHadrian’s Wall Path National Trail, where walkers oftenleave their cars in villages for up to a week. There is aneed to address parking issues in such villages. Theoption of developing formal car parks on the edges ofvillages in discrete locations could help alleviate thisissue and should be explored with private landowners.

Public amenities such as toilets are adequate alongthe south west sector of the AONB. However, wherevisitor growth has occurred, namely the Hadrian’s WallPath National Trail corridor in the north east sector nosuch provision has been made following 7 years ofuse. Evidence suggests that this situation needs to beaddressed.

There is a growing opportunity to develop a SolwayFoods branding strategy and Market to help improvethis part of the economy as farming, fishing andaquaculture are crucial to the long term managementof the character of the area.

The provenance of local branding for farm produce isyielding new markets and premium prices at the farmgate. Salt fed lamb is nothing new on the SolwayCoast marshes but local provenance is unclear. Stockis brought in from fell farms surrounding the Solwayplain and thus cannot be deemed ‘local’. Anopportunity does exist however to fatten locallyproduced lamb and beef and market it with a Solwaybrand.

The AONB brand has been developed during thelifetime of the last Management Plan and could beused by small businesses to positively market theirproducts. By demonstrating links to the AONB, localproduce and local services could become moreattractive. By working with other organisations suchas Business Link and Cumbria Tourism furtherbusiness branding could be developed and advice,training and equipment could be offered.


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Tw

o

Eco

nom

y &

Com

mun

ity Issues and Forces for Change Evidence

Some services and facilities seem to be indecline but there is a lack of information onthe exact details.

Farm incomes are in decline and ways todiversify farm incomes to supportsustainable growth in this sector areneeded.

As farming diversifies and villages andcommunities change, there is a need tosupport community cohesion andshowcase what makes the area and itsresources special.

Silloth is not included in the boundary ofthe AONB but it is the primary servicecentre for the AONB. This status should bereinforced and developed.

Training and skills to service the growth ofrural micro businesses is essential tosustain business growth and longevity in allsectors.

Further development of high-speed IT linksto rural areas is key to the growth of therural business sector.

Good quality services are needed to support avibrant and diverse resident and visitorcommunity and to help support the overallobjectives of the AONB. However, no AONBwide studies have been carried out to establishwhat is on offer and what is lacking. There is aneed to establish this to help secure funding todevelop projects and programmes to helpsupport them in the longer term.

CAP reform has shifted emphasis toconservation and restoration and the uptake ofHigher Level Stewardship grant is important tosustain the farming community. Climatechange will have an effect in the longer termand thermal shifts will create furtheropportunities for change and development infarming practices. In addition to this, visitornumbers are increasing and incomes couldbenefit from providing sustainable visitorattractions and/or accommodation.

The area does not currently hold an annualevent that celebrates the resources and ruralbusinesses and visitor opportunities. Such anevent could help community and businessdevelopment and cover areas as diverse as ruralbusinesses, tourism operators, farmers, countrysports, and showing stock.

The AONB Unit offices and its informationcentre, The Solway Discovery Centre, are bothbased in Silloth. It has a full range of shops,hotels, services and businesses to support thelocal community and visitors. It can help delivera more sustainable AONB. The AONB brandcould be developed further in Silloth to helpcreate a service centre that provides traditionalmarkets (outdoor) for local ‘Solway’ produce,information about the area and to orientatevisitors to the area. This support the SolwayGateway idea.

The AONB can provide an opportunity fordeveloping skills and training around businessesthat are providing services linked to its specialquality. Training opportunities offered byPartners should be promoted in relevantsectors, such as tourism.

As new technologies come on-stream, the ruralcommunity is being increasingly better servedby broadband service suppliers. However, workstill needs to be done regarding theinfrastructure and speed of connections. Thiswould undoubtedly make the Solway Coast areamore attractive to micro and cottage stylebusinesses.


Managem

ent Plan P

art Two E

conomy &

Com

munity

Objectives

Objective EC1 A sustainable rural economy and community facilities andservices are supported where they are compatible with thespecial qualities of the area.

Policies Policy EC1.1 Support and encourage the production andmarketing of Solway produce to add value to the localeconomy.

Policy EC1.2 Encourage and support the development ofemployment and local businesses which support AONBpurpose and the area’s special qualities.

Policy EC1.3 Support sustainable community projects whichinvolve aspects of delivering the AONB purpose.

Policy EC1.4 Encourage improved services and facilities forthe AONB and its communities that are compatible with thearea’s special qualities.

Policy EC1.1

Support andencourage theproduction andmarketing ofSolway produce to add value tothe local economy

Policy EC1.2

Encourage andsupport thedevelopment ofemployment andlocal businesseswhich supportAONB purposeand the area’sspecial qualities

Policy EC1.3

Supportsustainablecommunityprojects whichinvolve aspects ofdelivering the AONB purpose

Policy EC1.4encourageimproved servicesand facilities forthe AONB and itscommunities thatare compatiblewith the area’sspecial qualities

Theme Economy and CommunityObjective Objective EC1 A sustainable rural economy and community facilities and services are

supported where they are compatible with the special qualities of the area

EC1.1.1 Provide funding for the annual ‘Food Fair’held in Silloth to promote Solway produce throughSDF

EC1.1.2 Produce a Solway Coast AONB CookeryBook by 2010 promoting local Solway produce andrecipes

EC1.1.3 Support NE in advising farms of thebenefits of local organic meat production forfarmers markets

EC1.2.1 Provide annual funding incentives for localrural businesses (SDF) to develop sustainableproducts and services

EC1.2.2 Produce a data base providing theevidence for the needs of services within the AONB

EC1.3.1 Provide annual funding through SDF tosupport community projects which help to deliverAONB purpose

EC1.3.2 Encourage community led projects onsense of place and local history

EC1.4.1 Engage with local Parish Councils, TownCouncils and community groups to find out theneeds of facility provision in the AONB

EC1.4.2 Use the Discovery Centre as a focalmeeting point for information provision within theAONB


iorit

y

AONB Unit NE (SDF) Ongoing Executive 2STAG

AONB Unit NE (SDF) 2010 Executive 3local

community

NE FWAG, Ongoing Advocate 1local

landowners,CLA

AONB Unit NE (SDF), Ongoing Catalyst 2local

businesses

AONB Unit ABC, 2012 Catalyst 3CaCC, CT,

ACT,T&CP,NAP

AONB Unit NE (SDF), Ongoing Catalyst 2local

community,PCs, ACT

AONB Unit ABC, Ongoing Catalyst 2CaCC,CCC,PCs,TCs,

Community Groups

AONB Unit, TIC, Ongoing Catalyst 2Discovery DiscoveryCentre Centre,

STAG, CT


Managem

ent Plan P

art Three A

pp

endices

Part ThreeAPPENDIX 1 Facts, Figures, Observations and AwarenessIntroductionThe information presented below is derived from a range ofsources. Most is encapsulated here from the State of theAONB Report 2008. Other data and perceptions have beencompiled from a range of data sets, direct consultation,observation and feedback from user groups and individuals.National trends have also been used where they have localrelevance. The information provided here falls into four maincategories, they are:

Facts = data of an empirical nature (usually derived fromgovernment sources)Figures = information that is quantitative and measurableObservations = issues that are perceived through directobservation (real or potential)Awareness = issues that have been identified by consultees(real or potential)In each theme section the relevant facts and figures arepresented. These underpin, alongside observation andawareness, information described as a short narrative in theissues and forces for change tables in Part 2 of the Plan.

Landscape Theme: Facts and FiguresOne of Solway Coast’s most important distinguishingfeatures is its combination of landscape types – it is asequence of coastal margins, agricultural land and mosslandand it is the scale and importance of these elements in theSolway Firth that are unrivalled in any other AONB. Thewildness and remoteness of the Solway coast, whencompared to other coastal landscapes and in particularother AONBs, is a very important part of its special qualities.

The Solway Coast AONB was designated in 1964 and isone of the UK’s 49 AONBs.Size: 115 sq km, 59 km of shoreline

Landscape Character:Estuary and Marsh, including two sub types, intertidal flatsand coastal marsh; Coastal Margins including dunes andbeaches, coastal mosses and coastal plain; and Lowlandincluding low farmland, rolling lowland and drained mosses.

Key Characteristics• Raised beaches, dunes, pebble beaches, and sandy shores• Estuarine intertidal mudflats and saltmarshes, with wintering

and migrating waders and wildfowl• Fragmented areas of relatively intact raised peat bogs, or

lowland raised mires, of high nature conservation value• Flat to gently undulating lowland plain, intensively managed

predominantly for pasture• Medium to large fields enclosed by windswept hedgerows

and stone faced hedge banks• Dense network of highly managed rivers, streams and ditches• Limited woodland cover• Rich historic, cultural and archaeological heritage, Victorian

coastal resorts, small market towns and villages.Considerable variety of building styles and materials

• Primary transport routes on rectilinear pattern of roads andlanes.

Area by Landuse:The majority of the AONB, around 65%, is farmland.Raised mires cover a further 10% and the remaining 25%covers areas such as settlements, sand dunes,saltmarshes, rivers and highways.

Types of Agricultural Landuse:

Features in the landscape such as hedgerows are aninherent part of the character of the AONB. Otherimportant features include dressed stone culverts,sandstone gate posts, and dry stone walls. Only smallareas of woodland occur within the AONB but by theirscarcity have become important landscape features. Mostof the trees are mature and the lack of appropriate plantingof new native woodland and the management of existingwoodland are areas of concern.

Man has significantly influenced the AONB landscape inmany ways, through settlement, rural industry such as peatcutting, and land management, in particular, farming. Thelandscape comprises numerous individual features (sites,monuments and buildings) as well as broad patterns offield systems and settlements. There is a need to retainfield patterns and boundaries, together with the need tomaintain and enhance distinctive character includingdifferent local styles, e.g. kested hedgerows, NorthCumberland Style Hedgelaying, sandstone gate stoops,and dry stone walls.

Results from 2004 AONB Hedgerow Survey Few (29%) of the AONB hedges are species rich with morethan 4 species. Thus, the majority of hedges do not meetthe targets set for the Ancient and/ or Species-RichHedgerows Action Plan (part of the UK Biodiversity ActionPlan).Less than 10% of hedges were occupied by gaps,showing favourable condition. There was little or nomanagement of the verges or headlands. Most of thehedges in the AONB are laid on hedge banks, (kestslocally) and this is the local character type of hedges for theSolway Basin. 60% of hedges were leggy/overgrown, with32% clipped and 40% mechanically cut; 70% of hedgeshad no trees. 75% of hedges had an earth bank, most inthe 0.5-1m range of height, 35% of hedge banks werefenced off, and 42% had no management.72.5kms ofhedgerow are found in the AONB, which has an area of115 km square. The mean hedge length in each kmsquare was 6.5km.

These results highlight the need for better hedgerowmanagement.

Landscape Character Assessment (LCA)The Solway Coast AONB is classified as within the SolwayBasin JCA (JCA 6) but only makes up a very smallpercentage (11%) of the JCA. The CQC results indicatethat, between 1990 and1998 within the JCA, there wassome change inconsistent with the countryside characterbut, between 1999 and 2003, the character was neglected

Landuse No. holdings Area (Ha) % agricultural land

Crops/bare fallow 52 1097.8 14.1 Temp. grass 51 854.3 11.0 Permanent grass 106 4881.7 62.8 Rough grazing 22 452.8 5.8 Woodland 20 222.0 2.8 Set aside 23 87.3 1.1 All other land 23 183.8 2.4 Total farmed area 134 7779.7 100

Bare fallow = 42.6ha, Crops = 1055.2ha (13.6%)


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Th

ree

A

pp

end

ices

and is diverging. The headline indicator does not reflectconditions within the AONB and a new LCA is needed.Natural England recognise that there is a problem withaccepting CQC information at face value1 and Solway Coastis identified as one AONB where further work is required tolook at local interpretation of CQC data.

Natural Heritage Theme: Facts and FiguresInternationally designated areas: Natura 2000 Sites

Natura 2000 sites within the AONB

SpeciesWithin the AONB there are at least 8 Cumbria BAP species:Songthrush, Barn Owl, Brown long-eared Bat, Natterer’sBat, Pipistrelle Bat, Marsh Fritillary, Natterjack Toad andGreat-crested Newt (also known as Warty Newt) as well asa number of national BAP species; 6 EU Habitats Directive‘Annex II’ Species – Common Porpoise, Common Seal,Grey Seal, Otter, Marsh Fritillary, Great-crested Newt; and 7EU protected species - Brown long-eared Bat, Commonporpoise, Natterer’s Bat, Pipistrelle Bat, Otter, NatterjackToad and Great-crested Newt.

UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) habitats within the AONBinclude:

Coastal Saltmarsh Coastal and Flood plain Grazing MarshCoastal Sand Dunes (Dune Grassland and Dune Heath)Lowland Raised Bog (and Lowland Heathland)Coastal Vegetated ShingleCoastal GrasslandsMaritime Cliffs and SlopesReedbedsFensSaltmarshMudflats and Intertidal sand flats

Nationally and locally designated areas: Sites of SpecialScientific Interest (SSSI)SSSIs within the AONB

Local sitesOther important wildlife sites within the AONB include:

1 National Nature Reserve – South Solway Mosses(967.55ha) of which Glasson Moss and BownessCommon lie within the AONB (area = 448ha, 3.9% of totalAONB area). The NNRs of Wedholme Flow, FinglandriggWood and Drumburgh Moss lie just outside the AONB. 16 County Wildlife Sites2 County Wildlife Trust Reserves: - Bowness on Solway Nature Reserve,

(area =7.21ha, 0.06% of total AONB)- Rockcliffe Marsh, (area = 1120ha, 9.7% of total AONB)

1 RSPB Reserve, Campfield Marsh, (saltmarsh area =52.40 ha and intertidal area = 23.83 ha, 0.66% of totalAONB).

Geology: There are two SSSIs within the AONB – UpperSolway Flats and Marshes and the River Eden andTributaries – which are designated partly for theirgeological importance. There are also four RegionallyImportant Geological/Geomorphological Sites (RIGS) inthe AONB: Beckfoot- submerged forest; Rockliffe –sandstone outcrop; Swarthy Hill – drumlin and raisedbeach profile; Dubmill Point and Allonby – raised beachprofiles.

Issues for Natural HeritageThe key issues arising from the baseline assessment forbiodiversity include:

The loss and fragmentation of BAP habitat within theAONB The need to protect and enhance statutory and non-statutory designated sites of nature conservation valuewithin the AONBImpact of changing agricultural practices on species andhabitats and scrub encroachmentSpread of invasive non-native speciesLoss or fragmentation of species-rich hedgerowsDeterioration of water quality through diffuse pollutionErosion of the dunes by vehicles and illicit car parkingDrying out or loss of raised miresRe-creation of wetland areas Undergrazing of the dunesConflict between access to the coast, undergrazing,impact on biodiversity, safetyDisturbance to wildlife along the coast during the breedingseason and roosting times by people and their dogsDevelopment of ecological networksEnsure development does not create new barriers tonative species movement

Cultural & Built Heritage Theme: Facts & FiguresThe cultural, archaeological and historic heritage of theAONB is one of the special qualities of the area and isintegral to its character. Many of the features that makethe area distinctive are cross cutting with the speciallandscape of the AONB such as field boundaries(drystone walls and hedgerows), and settlements (thelayout of villages and hamlets and the building traditions ofthe area). Sandstone gatestoops are also an importantheritage feature of field entrances. More data is needed toprovide a base line for the state of hedgerows and trees,traditional buildings and steadings.The most famous heritage site within the AONB isHadrian’s Wall which terminates at Bowness-on-Solway.Hadrian’s Wall Military Zone was designated as a WorldHeritage site in 1987 and Roman monuments can befound throughout the AONB from Maryport to Beaumont.

SSSI Area (ha) %

AONB % of SSSI (in AONB) in Favourable or Recovering condition

Bowness Common

854.78ha 7.43% 87.5%

Silloth Dunes and Mawbray Bank

91.23 0.79% 41.4%

Glasson Moss 225.26 1.96% 63.8%

River Eden and Tributaries

17.5ha in AONB

0.15% 0%

Salta Moss 45.61 0.4% 0%

Upper Solway Flats and Marshes

3497.14ha within AONB

30.41% 95.9%

Designation Description Total Area ( ha)

Area within AONB (ha)

% of AONB

River Eden (and Tributaries)

2463.23 17.5 0.15%

South Solway Mosses

1962.36 967.6 8.4%

Special Area of Conservation (SAC)

Solway Firth 43636.72 3497.1 30.4% Special Protection Area (SPA)

Up per Solway Flats and Marshes

30706.26 3497.1 30.4%

Ramsar site Upper Solway Flats and Marshes

30706.26 3497.1 30.4%

1 AONB Monitoring – an analysis of the first outputs of CQC, Steve Preston, Natural England


Managem

ent Plan P

art Three A

pp

endices

Cumbria County Council holds the Historic EnvironmentRecords (HERs)2 for Cumbria and details of those within theAONB are listed in the original document.In summary, the AONB contains:423 Sites and Monument Records (SMR)102 Listed Buildings (4 x grade I, 6 x II*, 92 x II) 51 Scheduled Monuments 7 Conservation Areas (containing 65 SMR sites, 48 listedbuildings, 8 Scheduled Monuments)0 Registered historic parks & gardens80 SMR sites lie within the 51 Scheduled Monument areas.The 7 Conservation Areas (Built environment) are Allonby,Boustead Hill, Bowness-on-Solway, Burgh by Sands,Dykesfield, Mawbray and Port Carlisle. There is one Parish Plan for Burgh-by-Sands and there are noConservation Area Character Appraisals and ManagementPlans.The villages within the AONB have their own distinctivecharacters derived from buildings constructed in a traditionalstyle and from traditional materials. The form and layout ofvillages and hamlets in the area also contributes to thecharacter and quality of the local landscape. The size of thevillages in the AONB has remained fairly stable with somelimited new building, not always in keeping with localvernacular styles.Clay buildings, known as ‘dabbins’, are a distinctive type ofvernacular architecture within the Solway Plain area, many ofwhich are based on the longhouse design, with origins in themedieval period. A large number of these traditional buildingshave been lost since they were first recorded, and many remainat risk, as only 20% are legally protected by listing. Data on‘dabbins’ within the AONB is to be sought.There is a need for a Historic Landscape CharacterisationProject within the AONB to provide more relevantcharacterisation and local management guidance, and toincrease the level of public awareness of the significance of thecultural heritage in the AONB.Haaf netting dates back to Viking times around 1000 yearsago. The technology (frame, net etc) has not changed sinceits introduction and is still used today. It is a public fishery andanyone can take out a licence although numbers are limited.The fishery uses Scandinavian words to describe both thetackle and the way it is fished. Both the fishing instrumentand the language is an important part of the heritage of theSolway Coast.The Coast Theme: Facts and FiguresThe Solway coastline provides significant wildlife habitats andhas a rich heritage of Haaf Net Fishing and maritime trading. The 59 kilometres of coastline provides a valuable resource fortranquil recreation, tourism, and fishing.The forthcoming Marine and Coastal Access Bill presents amajor opportunity for coastal and marine conservation andaccess.

FloodingAreas potentially at risk from flooding from rivers (a 1 in 100year event) or the sea (a 1 in 200 year chance) without flooddefences have been mapped by the Environment Agency. The flood risk maps indicate potential flooding of all the mainrivers plus some flooding of the smaller watercourses flowingwest between Maryport and Skinburness. The maps alsoindicate potential flooding around much of the AONB coastwith inundation of the low lying marshes – Rockcliffe, Newton, Calvo and Skinburness Marshes. (cross cutting with Climateand Renewables)

Overwintering Bird PopulationOverwintering waterbirds (wildfowl and waders combined)for the Solway:- 00/01 = 150,64201/02 = 124,12702/03 = 153,36403/04 = 145,05204/05 = 140,9615 year Average = 142,829Species occurring in internationally important numbers:-Whooper Swan, Barnacle Goose, Shelduck, Pintail, Knot,Bar-tailed Godwit. The impact of wind turbines on important bird populationsin the Solway Estuary is a crosscutting issue withBiodiversity. The Pink Footed Goose, Greylag Goose andWhooper Swan are identified as important bird speciesthat are vulnerable to the effects of onshore wind energydevelopments.Upper Solway Mussel FisheriesWith regard to recruitment to the fishery, this can and doesvary year on year. The actual figures can be found in thereports on the annual surveys (2004 onwards can be foundon www.cumbriasfc.org.uk downloads). However, thefollowing gives the amount of spat found from 2002 to date.2002 very large settlement2003 moderate to poor settlement2004 poor2005 poor2006 very large settlement2007 very poorAny large settlement of spat is mostly lost before reachingthe winter months. For example, in 2006 the very heavylate spring/early summer settlement was found to havebeen reduced by over 90% by mid October.

Bathing Water Quality

Beach Sampling Year Water Quality Skinburness X : 312621.03, Y: 556643.31 2007 Good 2006 Good 2005 Good 2004 Good 2003 Excellent Silloth X : 310361.5, Y: 553484.19 2007 Good 2006 Excellent 2005 Good 2004 Good 2003 Good Allonby X : 307742.12, Y: 542456.38 2007 Good 2006 Excellent 2005 Good 2004 Good 2003 Good Allonby South X : 306445.66, Y: 540752.44 2007 Good 2006 Excellent 2005 Good 2004 Good 2003 Good

EA website accessed 21/4/08

2 HERs were previously known as Sites and Monuments Records: the name has changedto reflect the wider scope of the data they now contain. This includes listed buildings,scheduled monuments, parks and gardens of special historic buildings, archaeologicalevents (surveys, evaluations, building recording etc.) and conservation areas.

Marine and Beach Litter

Results from the AONB Volunteer Group ‘Beachwatch’Survey 2007:

1072 items found along 200 metres of beach (Allonby)The main items were: 41.4% plastics, 14% metal, 12%sanitary, 7% paper, 5% wood and 5% glassThe main sources of litter were: beach users 49%, fishing7%, shipping 8%, and not sourced 21%In 2006 survey 384 items were foundMarine litter is an issue and apart from volunteercollections, Allerdale Borough Council remove coastal butnot beach litter (apart from dead carcasses)

Environmental Management Theme: Facts & FiguresAgricultural land in the AONB comprises around 73%pasture (sheep, dairy and beef cattle); less than 10% isarable land and this is mainly barley and wheat.

Farming in the AONB is characterized by land held inindividual tenancies and rights of common grazing on thedunes and marshes. Traditionally, shares or ‘stints’ in thecommon grazing have been attached to individual landholdings. Commons on the saltmarshes are made up ofmany stints and are run by committees. There has been nograzing on the dunes since 1997 because of the hazardsof high speed traffic on the coastal road; however, fencingis now permitted and stock is returning to sections.

The farmed area within the AONB appears to be remainingat a fairly stable level but there is a trend towardsdiversification – providing holiday accommodation, caravanparks and tearooms.

Agri-Environmental schemes within the AONB

Agricultural landuse within the AONB

Data suppressed prior to 2000 to prevent disclosure ofinformation about individual holdings.

Of the 7779 .7ha farmed within the AONB, the vastmajority (73.8%) is grass (temporary and permanent) andis used for grazing (dairy and beef cattle and sheep). Afurther 5.8% is classed as rough grazing. 9.2 % is usedfor crops, mainly spring and winter barley and wheat.Woodland covers only 2.4 % of the AONB.

Peatlands The South Solway Mosses comprises four distinct areasof peatland at Bowness Common, Glasson Moss,Wedholme Flow (outside the AONB) and Drumburgh

Moss. Extending to some 1,952 hectares this complex isthe largest relatively intact area of lowland raised bog inEngland.

Tranquillity The tranquillity of the Solway Coast AONB is one of itskey features. Its remoteness and wildness are also part ofits special qualities. A Council for the Protection ofEngland Tranquillity Map is available for Cumbria. Thedetail is somewhat inadequate at AONB level. However,the AONB generally is mapped as a ‘most tranquil’ areawith the level of tranquillity decreasing slightly in thesouthern area of the AONB along the coast from Silloth toMaryport. The impact of the roads on tranquillity is clearlyseen. Increasing visitor numbers, increasing car use,improved access and changing recreational activities maylead to a decrease in tranquillity within the AONB.

AirThe Air Quality (England) Regulations 2000 place a dutyon local authorities to review and assess air quality forseven pollutants and ensure that standards andobjectives laid down for each will be met. Monitoring iscarried out within the AONB boundary by AllerdaleBorough Council and air quality is not considered to be aproblem within the AONB.

WaterThe AONB is bordered and crossed by many streamsand four major rivers – the Waver, Wampool, Eden andEsk. The major rivers and their tributaries drain into theSolway Firth. Many of the smaller streams, such asCrookhurst Beck, Brunsow Beck and Scad Beck, drainwestwards into Silloth and Allonby Bays. The coastalwaters around the AONB, particularly in the southernpart are important for bathing.

The biological and chemical quality of the River Eden asit enters the AONB is classed as ‘very good’ with‘moderate’ levels of nutrients (nitrates and phosphates).Water quality within the Esk is also generally ‘good’ withvery low levels of nutrients. Trends in concentrations aresteady. In the Waver, biological and chemical quality isclassed as ‘fairly good’ with ‘moderate’ levels of nutrientsand there have been recent improvements in chemicalquality and levels of phosphates. The chemical andbiological quality of the Wampool within the AONB isclassed as ‘Fair’ (chemical quality improving recently from‘Poor’). Nutrients are classed as ‘moderate to high’ andappear to be stable at these levels.

Drying out of lowland mires is a particular problem withinthe AONB and several SSSI units are identified as beingin adverse condition due to drainage and inappropriateditch management.

The Water Framework Directive3 (WFD) is EuropeanCommunity legislation to ensure waters are managed toachieve good quality across Europe. All waters are to beassessed to see if they are likely to meet the objectivesof the Directive. The water bodies within/bordering theAONB which have been assessed against the objectivesof the WFD and which are identified by the EnvironmentAgency as being ‘at risk’ are listed in below.

The quality of the water in the watercourses within andbounding the AONB is crucial in maintaining the waterquality of the AONB’s wetland and coastal habitatsincluding key BAP habitats and SAC and SPAdesignations. The coastal waters are also very importantfor the local tourist industry.


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Th

ree

A

pp

end

ices

Type of Scheme Number Area (ha) Environmental Stewardship, Entry Level Scheme (ELS)

69 6357

Environmental Stewardship, Higher Level Scheme (HLS)

3 1039

Countryside Stewardship Schemes, CSS 51 4480 Woodland Grant Schemes, WGS 2 Not

available Wildlife Enhancement Schemes 7 Not

available

Year Total area,

hectares % AONB

No. holdings

2006 7779.7 67.65 134 2005 7483.1 65.07 132 2004 8147.4 70.84 139 2003 7524.3 65.42 123 2002 7420.8 64.52 129 2001 7392.6 64.28 130 2000 7704.4 66.99 131

3 The Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC).


Managem

ent Plan P

art Three A

pp

endicesClimate and Renewables Theme : Facts & Figures

The AONB supports the development of renewable sources ofenergy where these are compatible with its designation, e.g.small-scale renewable energy developments, energy efficientmeasures, ground source heat pumps, etc. These are expectedto increase as the Government has set targets to source 10% ofits energy from renewable sources by 2010.

Offshore development can have an impact on the landscapeand seascape of the AONB, although it is outside the controlof local planning authorities as their remit only extends to themean low water level. At this moment, a major activity whichhas great impact on the AONB is the building of 60 windturbines at Robin Rigg in the Solway Firth. The Governmenthas a target of 15% of energy coming from renewables by2020 showing the targets are increasing beyond 2010. Therewill be a third round of licences being issued by the CrownEstate in the Irish Sea and the recent licences in the ScottishWaters adjacent to Robin Rigg and in Wigtown Bay couldresult in an additional 60 turbines adjacent to Robin Rigg andan additional 60 further north at Wigtown Bay.

As biomass and biofuels are playing a part nationally, this couldaffect the character of the AONB if short rotation coppicing andforestry, or biofuel crops become popular in the area, and theagricultural land would not support this well.

The search for non-fossil fuel sources of energy may result inother sites close to the AONB being identified for harnessingwave and tidal stream power as a potential source ofrenewable energy; the notion of a barrage across the SolwayEstuary has been put forward. There would be impacts on theAONB if this scheme came to fruition, and these woulddepend upon location, function and design.

By 2080 in the North West:Annual change in max temp = 1-5oCChange in max summer temp = 2-6oCAnnual change in rainfall = 0-20% decreaseChange in summer rainfall = 10-60% decreaseChange in winter rainfall = 0-30% increaseChange in sea level = 9-69 cmIncreased frequency and severity of storm events

Climate change could have a significant impact oncharacteristic AONB landscapes and the historic environmentover time. By the 2050s, typical spring temperatures mayoccur between one and three weeks earlier than at presentand the onset of present winter temperatures may be delayedby one to three weeks. This is likely to lead to a lengthening ofthe thermal growing season for plants. The amount of heatingand cooling for buildings will also change.’’ 5

The predicted impacts of climate change will also lead tomore frequent incidences of temperature extremes whichmay, over time, result in altered growing seasons andchanges to what crops/produce can be successfully grown inthe AONB. There may also be an impact on the lifecycle ofindigenous species across all forms of biodiversity andincreased stress placed upon existing native species and localhabitats. Climate change will also lead to changes in rainfall,sea level and storm events, which in turn could lead toflooding, coastal erosion, changes in drainage patterns andriver patterns. This would impinge on EnvironmentalManagement and actions to deliver.

The management of this change process is integral to theAONB Unit and, in conjunction with our partner organisations,we will monitor, manage and mitigate the impacts of climatechange in order to preserve the special qualities wherepossible. Two naturally occurring carbon sinks are the raisedmires and Solway Estuary.

Management of the coast is receiving increasing attention asa national priority, in recognition of the importance of thecoast for conservation and recreation, and increasingpressures on the coast including sea level rise. The impacts ofsea level rise coupled with an increase in storm severity willalter the coastline through such mechanisms as increasederosion and flooding. The likely impact of increased weatheractivity may be seen through increased rates of sedimenttransfer, flood damage and erosion. The areas mostthreatened by these pressures will be the sensitive estuarineenvironment and the coastal sand dunes. The ManagementPlan will, where appropriate, defer to the ShorelineManagement Plans developed by the relevant body in orderto have an effective strategy to deal with the pressure ofenvironmental change.

The principles for managing coastal zone issues follow thefollowing decision hierarchy:• Do nothing • Hold the existing line• Advance the existing line • Retreat

Tourism, Transport, Access & Recreation Theme: Facts and FiguresWhilst recreation is not a purpose of designation it is recognisedthat demand should be met provided it does not harmconservation or natural beauty, or the needs of other uses.

Public Rights of Way within the AONB (PROW)

Water Body ‘At Risk’ status WFD River Basin District

Wampool (upstream of the Laythes as it enters the AONB)

Diffuse source pollution

Solway Tweed

Great Gutter Diffuse source pollution

Solway Tweed

Causewayhead (wath) Beck

Point source pollution and physical or morphological alteration 1.

Solway Tweed

Black Dub Diffuse source pollution

North West

Crookhurst Beck Diffuse source pollution

North West

Brunsow Beck Diffuse source pollution

North West

Scad Beck Point source pollutio n and Diffuse source pollution

North West

‘At Risk’ water bodies within the AONB

Type of Access Length, km Public Rights of Way Footpaths 144.9 Bridleways 20.8 1 byways open to all traffic (BOATs)

2.4

4

4 Morphology (form and structure) of the aquatic environment is a key factor in determiningthe nature and condition of ecosystems within water bodies. Physical alterations to thewater bodies will have an impact on the ecosystems within them. These include flooddefences, weirs, dams, channelisation and culverts. Other activities can impact on thephysical characteristics of rivers, such as cattle poaching (trampling on grassed areaswhich leads to the soil being eroded) or construction close to rivers. Often rivers arereprofiled to create a more uniform cross-section, which allows faster passage of floodflows. The impacts on the environment include: habitat reduction, loss of marginalvegetation, reduction in cover for aquatic and marginal species, soil erosion and siltation ofimportant habitats and increased likelihood of flooding (Environment Agency).

5 Climate change Scenarios for the UK: UKCIP02 Scientific Report

PROW are managed by 2 different agents across theparishes within the AONB. 11 Parishes are managed byCumbria County Council as the statutory highway authority.Maintenance of this network is undertaken through a 4 yearrolling programme, such that the condition of all PROW inthese parishes will have been surveyed and assessedbetween the years 2006 and 2010, and repairs andreplacements of signing, stiles and gates undertaken.

PROW in the remaining parishes (Burgh by Sands andRockcliffe) are managed by Carlisle City Council underclaimed rights. Maintenance of this network is undertakenthrough a 6 year rolling programme, starting in 2008, withwork completed in these parishes in the same year.

An independent random survey of 5% of all PROW acrossthe county is surveyed yearly, in May and November, togive an indication of current condition of the network (BVPI178 ‘ease of use’). The 2008/09 figures show that 69.8%passed with 92.5% of roadside signposts in place.

Stewardship AccessNatural England has agreements, including conservationwalks and rides and educational access, under previous(Countryside Stewardship Scheme, CSS) and current(Higher Level Stewardship, HLS) Agri-EnvironmentStewardship Agreements. The table below gives the extentof stewardship access within the AONB.

Stewardship Access within the AONB

Other AccessThree long distance footpaths pass through the AONB: theCumbria Coastal Way, the Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trailand the Allerdale Ramble which extends northwards alongthe shore as far as Grune Point. There are also 11.4km ofEasy Access walks.

Open Access LandThere are five areas of Open Access land within the AONB:Silloth and Mawbray Bank, Burgh Marsh, SkinburnessMarsh, Bowness Common and Glasson Moss.

CyclingThe National Cycle Network Route 72 passes through theAONB (the Hadrian’s Wall Cycleway) and part of theCumbria Cycle Way between Silloth and Maryport (this isconsidered too dangerous by cycling enthusiasts). Apurpose built cycle path has been proposed betweenSilloth, Allonby and Maryport to boost tourism. Within theAONB cycling is becoming more popular due to theHadrian’s Wall Cycleway and linked routes (AONB 5 Do-in-a-Day Cycle routes).

TourismTourism is second only to farming in its importance to thelocal economy and is a major employer in the area. Theprincipal recreational activities are informal – walking,cycling, bird watching, fishing and swimming. Allonby alsoattracts windsurfers. Most visitors arrive by car and so this

has an impact on highways. Developing ‘Quiet Lanes’,with traffic calming and educating about the wealth offootpaths and nature conservation interests, is as much apart of sustainable tourism as is promoting alternativeforms of transport in and from the AONB.

Number of visitors to the Solway Coast Discovery Centre, 2005-2007

There have been no recent local tourist surveys toestimate the number of people who visit the AONB eachyear or to assess their reasons for visiting, and this is anissue which needs to be addressed. Visitor numbers tothe Discovery Centre are monitored by the TIC and abreakdown of the numbers for 2005-2007 is given in theabove table. Apart from this information on overseas andUK visitors collected by the TIC, there is no more detailedinformation on visitor makeup. Information on tourism is,however, available for Cumbria as a whole and Allerdaleand Carlisle districts from the Cumbria STEAM Report(2006). Key statistics from this report for visitor revenue,numbers and days is given in the table below. These setthe context for tourism activity within the AONB.

Tourism revenue, tourist numbers and tourism days inCumbria in 2006:

The figures clearly show the importance of tourism in thelocal area, in particular in Allerdale. Allerdale BoroughCouncil in its Tourism Strategy6 identifies tourism as a vitalsector in the local economy and a large employer in theborough. Tourism is seen as an increasingly importantcomponent of Allerdale’s economy. The report also confirmsthat Allerdale attracts a predominantly day visitor market.

Education & Awareness Theme: Facts & FiguresThe AONB Unit uses a range of techniques andmaterials to make people aware of the AONB and thereasons for its designation i.e. landscape, wildlife,habitats, culture, history. Overall there is a need topromote the special qualities of the AONB and tounderstand forces for change.

Environmental education is provided by the SolwayCoast AONB Education Officer through the use ofupdated facilities in the Solway Coast Discovery Centreand coastal based activities ranging from art on thebeach, identifying wildlife and various habitats andmarine litter classifying, all of which explain theuniqueness of the AONB.


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Th

ree

A

pp

end

ices

Visitor

Revenue, £M ( change 2005/06)

Visitor Numbers, millions (change 2005/06)

Tourist Days, millions (change 2005/06)

Allerdale 194.7 ( -1%)

2.5 ( -3%)

5.3 ( -1)

Carlisle 120.01 ( -5%)

2.4 ( -2%)

3.2 ( -3)

Cumbria 1073.9 ( -1%)

15.2 ( -1%)

27.5 ( -1)

No. of visitors

2005 2006 2007

UK 10,583 11,012 10,719 Overseas 131 199 104 Total 10,714 11,211 10,823

Site Type of Access

Length of access (km)

Access end date

Swarthy Hill Conservation walk/ride

0.4 30/9/2012

Dryholm Farm Silloth

Conservation walk/ride

3.0 30/9/2010

Rogersceugh Farm

Conservation walk/ride

0.8 30/9/2013

Bank Mill Nu rseries

Educational access

Not applicable

30/9/2013

6 A Strategy for Tourism 2005-2015, Allerdale Borough Council, August 2005.


Managem

ent Plan P

art Three A

pp

endices

Ward Burgh Holme Marsh

4688/7936 1849/7936 3310/7936

121/168 39/168 76/168

Index of Multiple Deprevation(UK ranking)

Index of Multiple Deprevation(Cumbria ranking)

Within the total population of the AONB, the table belowillustrates that there are slightly fewer children and moreretired people than in the populations of the northwest asa whole and in England generally:

Demographic changes in the population in the northwestare expected to lead to an increasingly ageing populationand it is predicted in Cumbria8 there will be a steadydecline in 0-14 year olds, a steeper decline in 15-64 yearolds and a steady increase in those aged 65+. Thispattern is likely to be reflected within the AONB.

EmploymentThere are no centres of employment within the AONB butsmall to medium enterprises and family owned businessprovide employment throughout the area. Farming andtourism are of primary importance to the local economyand both are major employers in the area. Around 65% ofthe AONB is farmland and there are 134 farm holdingswithin the AONB. There are 9 caravan sites, 1 guesthouse, 2 hotels and 13 pubs/inns listed in the AONB area.Data regarding other small businesses within the AONB isnot available but, based on regional statistics andinformation on businesses in the vicinity of the AONB, it isestimated that there has been a growth in this area ofaround 8% between 2002 and 2005.

Unemployment in the area is low, (Allerdale, 2.1% of allpeople aged between 16-74 and economically active,Carlisle, 2.2% compared to 3.63% in the northwest and3.35% in England) but a little higher than in Cumbria as awhole (1.9 %). However, the lack of diversity inemployment opportunities within the AONB is contributingto the progressive loss of young people from the area.Opportunities to broaden employment, such as newinternet–based businesses and other employmentopportunities which are not dependent on good roadaccess should be encouraged.

HousingHouse prices range considerably across the AONB andthe house price to income ratio varies between around 6:1to 7:1. This is better than for much of the rest of thecounty eg. many parts of South Lakeland have a ratio ofwell over 8:1 but is worse than the Maryport / Workingtonarea (ratios of less than 5:1). The high price of housesrelative to income can make it difficult for local people onlow incomes, particularly young adults, to afford a home oftheir own.

Lifestyle/Quality of LifeIndex of Multiple Deprivation, 2004

The Indices of Deprivation are widely recognised as one ofthe most accurate statistical measures of quality of life inlocal communities. The Index of Multiple Deprivationcombines a number of indicators9, chosen to cover arange of economic, social and housing issues, into a singledeprivation score for each small area in England. Thisallows each area to be ranked relative to one anotheraccording to their level of deprivation. Cumbria County

Facts and figures for 2007/8 Education daysNearly 800 children 24 school groups20 schools (including 3 from within the AONB)1 KS4 (14-16)8 KS1 (4-7)11 KS2 (7-11)Plus the 8 groups who took part in the Art project,3 key stage 1 and 5 key stage 2Facts and Figures for 2008/9 Education DaysNearly 1200 children (4 years -18 years)28 school groupsKS1 9 groupsKS2 13 groupsKS1&2 (small rural schools) 4 groupsKS4 6 groupsScouts and guides 2 groupsInitial Teacher training students 2 groups

Solway Plain Tourism Signage 2007/8The objective of this project is to provide professionalsignage to signpost visitors to the Solway Coast AONB andthe western end of Hadrian’s Wall Heritage Site.Overall, more people will be aware of the Solway area and theAONB, and, with time, secondary and primary signage will beadded. The new signage aims to provide awareness, publiceducation and understanding of the area frequently by-passedby visitors passing through Cumbria via the M6 motorway.The Solway Coast Young Ranger Group is led by theVolunteer Coordinator and activities are run throughout theyear to involve schoolchildren of all ages in activities relatedto the landscape management of the AONBNew leaflets are produced regularly from the AONB Unitwhich inform the public about the AONB and directexploration within it, including walking, cycling, bird watching,wildflower identification, village interpretation and volunteering.The Peatlands for People Project, a partner led project,provides information about the Solway Wetlands (raised mires)to a wide audience, and includes activities related to the raisedmires for all ages and improved access and information.Information technology is being promoted through thebusiness sector and the AONB website provides regularinformation updates.Other ways in which people are informed about the AONBinclude interpretation boards, events, walks, the media, theSustainable Development Fund, ROW markers and OpenAccess interpretation.

Theme: Economy and Community; Facts & FiguresThis section looks at some known parts of the ruraleconomy and needs of the community.DemographicsThe total population of the AONB is around 3400 and therehas been an approximate increase in the population withinthe AONB from 2001 to 2006. Between 2001 and 2006, thepopulation in Cumbria increased by 0.8%, a little slowerthan that in the northwest (1.2%) and England as a whole(2.7%) 7. Over this period, the overall population within theAONB increased by approximately 1.7%. The southern area of the AONB from Maryport to Sillothcomprises 16% of the total area but accounts for 30% ofthe population. The population of the AONB increasessignificantly over the summer months due to tourists.

% AONB Northwest England Child ren (0 -15) 20.0 20.7 20.2 Retired (65+) 17.0 16.0 15.9

7 Office of National Statistics Update, Winter 2007, No. 130 Population Trends.8 Cumbria County Council Information and Intelligence, Policy & Performance report, Sept 079 The IMD uses 38 indicators that are grouped into 7 domains. These are: Incomedeprivation (weighting 22.5%), Employment deprivation (weighting 22.5%), Healthdeprivation and disability (weighting 13.5%), Education, skills and training deprivation(weighting 13.5%) Barriers to housing and services (weighting 9.3%), Crime (weighting9.3%) and Living environment (weighting 9.3%) Sub Domain – the “indoors” livingenvironment (quality of housing) Sub Domain – the “outdoors” living environment (air qualityand road traffic accidents).

Council has calculated ward-level deprivation estimates forall wards in the county. The quality of life for those livingwithin the AONB as measured against those of Cumbriaand the rest of England (based on sample wards taken tobest represent the AONB population) is illustrated above.

Employment in Farming

Pre 2000, No of farmers was recorded. 2000 onwards, thiswas split into ‘full time and part time’ farmers.

The number of full time farmers has shown a steady declinefrom 124 in 2000 to 106 in 2006. The total number ofpeople employed in farming (farmers, managers, full time,part time, casual) has fallen significantly from over 300 in the1990s but has remained between 240 and 250 over the last5 years.

APPENDIX 2The External Review Process andPublic ConsultationThe revised Consultation Draft Plan went out for publicconsultation on 17th February for a six week consultationperiod until March 31st 2009. The draft consultationdocuments were accompanied by the StrategicEnvironmental Assessment at the later date of March 30thuntil 4th May 2009. Under European Directive 2001/42/ECthe AONB Partnership was required to carry out a StrategicEnvironmental Assessment (SEA) in order to ensure the Planprovides a high level of protection for the environment andcontributes to the integration of environmentalconsiderations and promotion of sustainable development.

At the same time all consultation documents were availableon the AONB website and hard copies or CDs were sent toall Parish and Town Councils, District Councils,Headteachers, Silloth TIC in the Discovery Centre, and allAONB Partnership members. Press releases and articleswere also issued. A total of 92 contacts were individuallyinformed of the review as part of the consultation. TheEnvironmental Report for the SEA and a non-technicalreport of the SEA, formed part of the consultationdocumentation and these were also posted on the AONBwebsite. In addition, the Management Plan andaccompanying SEA documents and reports were sent tothe statutory consultees of Natural England, EnglishHeritage and the Environment Agency. There were 18responses to the Management Plan, a number were verylengthy and helpful. There were no consultation responsesto the SEA.

Three evening meetings were held at Silloth DiscoveryCentre, Allonby Village Hall and Burgh-by-Sands VillageHall during March 2009. At each event, participants wereprovided with consultation proformas to fill in anddiscussions were actively promoted as to the specialqualities of the AONB and people’s perception of thelandscape and sense of place; key issues affecting theAONB; ideas for the future, and any other issues arising.During the six week period the public were able to respondto the Draft Management Plan at the Discovery Centre inSilloth, using the consultation document displayedthroughout.

A further environmental assessment through a HabitatRegulation Assessment (Appropriate Assessment, AA) isalso to be carried out in consultation with Natural England,to ensure the AONB Management Plan will not impact onthe significant wildlife value of the designated EuropeanHabitat sites in and adjacent to the AONB, as requiredunder European Community Habitats Directive (Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994)

How the results of the consultation were usedThe results of the consultation were combined and used toreview, re-draft and reinforce the Management Plan’sobjectives, policies, actions and visions. This processinvolved:

• The results from consultation with partner organisationsand other stakeholders were used to produce a newset of draft objectives, policies and actions for theAONB, including new changes and ideas.

• The results from consultation with communities allowedlocally-specific issues and ideas to be identified andincorporated within the Management Plan, whereappropriate.

• Overall the results from statutory consultees,stakeholders, partnerships and community werecombined to form a single document. The combinedresults were then analysed in order to:

• Identify the key issues, ideas and aspirations by lookingfor patterns and trends in the results, eg, areas wherethe same or similar comments have been made bymany consultees.

• Identify uncommon comments that may require furtherconsideration.

• Identify any specific or detailed comments that may beused to help in project planning and delivery.

• Finally, any new issues and ideas from the consultationwere, where appropriate, included in the final draftManagement Plan with some new or altered text, factsand figures, objectives, policies, and actions included.

A summary of the combined results and how weaddressed them can be found in Appendix 3

APPENDIX 3A Summary of the Main IssuesArising from the Public Consultationand the SEA and How These HaveBeen Addressed.This document contains a summary of changes to theManagement Plan following public consultation with AONBpartners; the amends listed are in response to partners’comments.

The main points arising are summarised here:


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Th

ree

A

pp

end

ices

Year No. Farmers (full time from

2000) Total labour (farmers full

and part time, managers and casual)

Holdings No. people Holdings No. people

2006 66 106 113 248 2005 68 113 109 258 2004 69 109 102 250 2003 69 110 104 240 2002 72 117 112 246 2001 77 120 117 260 2000 79 124 117 268 1999 112 212 115 293

1995 112 200 115 310

1990 116 215 117 315


Managem

ent Plan P

art Three A

pp

endices

Issues How we addressed these

There was a general needfor consistent use ofwording, grammar, facts &spelling (all)

Layout needed to bebetter differentiated as tomain section headings,subheadings, etc. (all)

The best parts of the oldplan should have beenretained for redrafting (NE)

The document was seento be rather too detailedand not accessible (NE,CCC)

There was not enoughemphasis placed on thefact that Hadrian’s WallWHS was in the AONBand of its importance tothe special qualities (NE)

Generally the HistoricLandscape and Culturaland Built Heritage sectionswere weak with somearchaeological data missed(NE, CCC, EH)

There was not enoughimportance placed on Agri- EnvironmentSchemes to deliverconservation andenhancement of variousthemes (NE)

The ‘Statement ofSignificance’ did not seemto relate well to thedesignation or LandscapeCharacter Assessment(LCA), (NE, CCC)

Landscape types shouldbe a brief description andbulleted and should staywith the existing typology(NE, CCC)

Part two seemed to repeatmuch of the information inpart one (NE, CCC)

There is a need for moreclarity on monitoring forsuccess (section 1.89 DraftPlan) i.e. monitoring theAONB in general andmonitoring delivery of theCore AONB functions andAction Plan (NE)

Changes have beenmade accordingly

The layout has beenchanged accordingly

This has been noted andamends have been made

Parts 1 and 2 have beencut in size to be moresuccinct

This was acknowledgedand amended

These sections werealtered to be less specificand more overarching.

The plan has includedthese schemes inObjectives, Policies andactions

This has been altered toreflect the LCA anddescribes those featureswhich are key to thedesignation of the area.

This has been carried out

Key base line data hasbeen removed fromsection two and placed inan appendix

This was acknowledgedand amended to maketarget setting moreSMART.

Issues How we addressed these

Within the ‘Issues andForces for Change’sections it was notclear as to whetherthey were evidencebased or anecdotal andif there was noevidence there shouldbe actions, policiesincluded to address thisin lifetime of the Plan.(NE, CCC)

Some Issues andForces for changeappeared to beactions or solutionsrather than issues (NE)

Some objectives andpolicies seem not tomatch up with theissues, too fewpolicies, some policiestoo similar andrepeated in differentthemes, some wordingof objectives andpolicies are mixed withmost objectivesphrased more aspolicies thanobjectives, repetitionsof actions (NE, CCC, EH)

The Special Qualitiessection seemed to betoo subjective and nottangible (EH, CCC)

There is a need tobring out the purposeof the Plan and theManagement of theAONB and that shouldshow that it is not justthe AONB Unit that iscrucial to this but allPartners (EH)

The actions for theplan would be betterintegrated more fully inpart 2 of the Plan toshow the links fromissues to policies toactions (EH)

The EnvironmentManagement sectionwas positivelyidentified as being thetemplate for eachsection (CCC, NE)

This has been addressedin an extra section andidentified issues to beaddressed in the Plan

This has been amended

The wording has beenchanged accordingly.

This has been amended



This has been carried outfollowing this template.

APPENDIX 4Acronyms used within the PlanAONB Area of Outstanding Natural BeautyABC Allerdale Borough CouncilACT Action with Communities in CumbriaARC Amphibian and Reptile Conservation TrustBAP Biodiversity Action PlanCRoW Countryside and Rights of WayCCC Cumbria County CouncilCCAP Cumbria Countryside Access PartnershipCHAMP Coastal Habitat Action PlanCAP Common Agricultural PolicyCaCC Carlisle City CouncilCLA Country Land and Business AssociationCLC Cumbria Landscape CharacterCQC Countryside Quality Counts CSFC Cumbria Sea Fisheries CommitteeCT Cumbria TourismCWMET Cumbria Waste Management Environment TrustCWT Cumbria Wildlife TrustCWS Cumbria Wildlife SiteDefra Department of Environment, Farming and RuralAffairsEH English HeritageEA Environment AgencyEMS European Marine SiteERT Eden Rivers TrustFLD Friends of the Lake DistrictFC Favourable Condition FWAG Farming and Wildlife Advisory ServiceGONW Government Office North WestHCT Herpetological Conservation Trust (ARC 2009)HLF Heritage Lottery FundHLS Higher Level StewardshipHWHL Hadrian’s Wall Heritage LimitedICZM Integrated Coastal Zone ManagementJAC Joint Advisory CommitteeLAF Local Access ForumLAG Local Action GroupLBAP Local Biodiversity Action PlanLC Local CommunityLNR Local Nature ReserveLTP Local Transport PlanMC Marsh CommitteeMCS Marine Conservation SocietyMOD Ministry of DefenceMTI Market Towns InitiativeNAAONB National Association of AONB’sNAP North Allerdale PartnershipNE Natural EnglandNFU National Farmers UnionNNR National Nature ReserveNSA National Scenic AreaNWDA North West Development AgencyPC Parish CouncilPfP Peatlands for PeoplePPG Planning Policy GuidancePRoW Public Rights of WayPSA Public Service AgreementRDA Rural Development AgencyRDS Rural Development ServiceRA The Ramblers AssociationRIGS Regionally Important Geological &

Geomorphological Sites RoW Rights of WayRoWIP Rights of Way Improvement Plan


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Th

ree

A

pp

end

ices

RSPB Royal Society for the Protection of BirdsSAC Special Area of ConservationWCAS West Cumbria Archaeological Society SCCVG Solway Coast Community Volunteer GroupSDF Sustainable Development FundSEA Strategic Environmental AssessmentSFP Solway Firth PartnershipSHNA Solway Haaf Netters AssociationSMPII Shoreline Management Plan 2SPA Special Protection AreaSSSI Site of Special Scientific InterestSSWA South Solway Wildfowlers AssociationSTAG Silloth Tourism and Action GroupSustrans National Charity for Sustainable TransportTCs Town CouncilsTPO Tree Preservation OrderT&CP Tourism and Conservation PartnershipUU United UtilitiesWHS World Heritage SiteWWT Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust

APPENDIX 5Glossary of TermsAffordable Housing - Housing provided for those whoseincome does not allow them to compete in the openmarket for house purchase, or for whom private sectoreconomic rents are too high.

Agri-Environment Schemes – Various GovernmentSchemes that promote environmentally friendly farming,including Countryside Stewardship and EnvironmentallySensitive Area Schemes.

Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – Area designated bythe Countryside Commission and confirmed by theSecretary of State for the Environment to conserve andenhance the natural beauty of the area.

Biodiversity – The range of plant and animal speciespresent in the area.

Biodiversity Action Plan – Action Plans concerned withprotecting biodiversity from the international to national andlocal levels.

Clay Dabbin – Cottage or barn, with walls constructed inthe original clay daub mixed with straw and pebbles calledclay dabbin.

Conservation Area – An area of special architectural orhistoric interest, the character or appearance of which, it isdesirable to preserve or enhance.

Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 – An Act ofParliament that creates new rights to walk on ‘opencountry’; moor, mountain, heath, down and common land.It also covers public rights of way, nature conservation,Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and National Parks.

Countryside Stewardship Scheme – a grant scheme whichaims to make conservation part of farming and landmanagement practice and which offers changes inmanagement that improve the natural beauty and diversityof the countryside. The scheme runs throughout England.Countryside Stewardship agreements run for 10 years.

County Wildlife Site (CWS) – Sites recognised by CumbriaWildlife Trust which are non-statutory areas of wildlife valueand are protected in local plans.

Drumlins – Streamlined elliptical hills of glacial till formedparallel to the direction of ice movement.

Environmental Assessment – The assembling of


Managem

ent Plan P

art Three A

pp

endices

information in relation to a proposed development, which byvirtue of its siting, design, size or scale, would have asignificant effect on the environment.

Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) – Area designated bythe Department of Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) within whichfinancial assistance is available to farmers to help maintaintraditional farming practices in areas where landscape andwildlife are under threat from the intensification of agriculture.

European Water Framework Directive – Aims to protect andimprove the environmental condition of all waters, includingrivers, lakes, groundwater, estuaries and coastal waters to 1nautical mile. Nearly all surface and groundwaters are toachieve ‘good’ status by 2015. This will be done byestablishing a river basin district structure within whichdemanding environmental objectives will be set, includingecological targets for surface waters. First cycle of river basinmanagement plans to run 2009-2015.

Geomorphological Feature – Landform shaped by thephysical and chemical interactions between the earth’ssurface and the natural processes acting on it.

Historic Landscape Characterisation Project – A CumbriaCounty Council and Lake District National Park Authorityproject, funded by English Heritage as part of a nationalprogramme. It analyses the whole of Cumbria (exceptAllerdale Borough Council), to determine the historiccharacter of the present landscape.

Listed Buildings – Buildings of special architectural or historicinterest listed by the Secretary of State for the Department ofCulture, Media and Sport under the Planning (ListedBuildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990.

Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) – Owned or controlled by localauthorities, some of which are also Sites of Special ScientificInterest. They are designated after consultation with NaturalEngland.

Local Plan – A written statement and Proposals Mapformulating the District Planning Authority’s detailed policiesfor the development and use of land in its area.

Local Transport Plan – Plan produced by the HighwayAuthority setting out transport policies and proposals.

National Nature Reserves (NNRs) – Sites declared by NaturalEngland or previously English Nature, under the NationalParks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 or theWildlife and Countryside Act 1981. They are owned orcontrolled by Natural England or held by approved bodiessuch as Wildlife Trusts.

Natura 2000 – Network of protected areas across theEuropean Union (Special Protected Areas and Special Areasof Conservation). They protect important habitats and wildlife.

Planning Policy Guidance (PPG) – Published notes settingout Government Policy on a variety of matters (e.g. Housing,The Countryside, Tourism). They are the principal source ofpolicy guidance on planning matters and must be taken intoaccount in the preparation of plans.

Public Rights of Way (PRoW) – Public footpaths, bridlewaysand cycleways along which the public has the right to travel.

Quiet Lanes Project – An initiative of the Countryside Agencyworking with local traffic authorities and partners to use anetwork of minor roads treated appropriately to enableshared use by cyclists, walkers, horse riders and motorizedusers.

Ramsar Site – Wetlands of International Importancedesignated by the Government following its signing in 1973of the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance,especially as wildfowl habitat (The Ramsar Convention).

Regionally Important Geological/Geomorphological Site(RIGS) – Geological or geomorphological site protectedbecause of its educational, research, historical or aestheticimportance.

Settlement – A grouping of buildings where there is, orhistorically has been, a mixture of landuses providinghomes, social facilities, commerce and employment givingevidence of a present or past community. The descriptioncan cover towns to villages or hamlets.

Shoreline Management Plan (SMP2) – A non-statutorydocument which sets out strategic level guidance designedto assist sustainable coastal defence decision making overthe next 50 years.

Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) – Areasdesignated by Natural England (English Nature) as being ofspecial interest by reason of their flora, fauna, geological orphysiographical features.

Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) – Areas designatedunder the European Union Directive on the Conservation ofNatural Habitats and Wild Flora and Fauna (The HabitatsDirective) to afford protection to flora and fauna.

Special Protection Areas (SPAs) – Areas classified underthe European Community Directive on the Conservation ofWild Birds.

Statutory – Authorised by law.

Stoop – Traditionally, a red sandstone gate post.

Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) – This is aprocess to ensure that significant environmental effectsarising from policies, plans and programmes are identified,assessed, mitigated, communicated to decision makers,monitored and that opportunities for public involvement areprovided.

Supplementary Planning Guidance - Guidance todevelopers additional to that contained in the Local Planapplying to a localized area or individual site. It highlightsoptions, acceptable and unacceptable uses and sets outguidelines.

Sunken Lanes – Lanes and tracks in the Solway areas thathave been constructed up to a metre below surroundingfield levels. The excavated material has been used toincrease the heights of the hedges to each side of theroad, the hedges being planted on the cobble ‘banks’ or‘kests’.

Sustainable Development - Development and associateduse of resources which meet the needs of presentgenerations without foreclosing the environmental andresource options for future generations.

Traditional Buildings – Buildings constructed in anarchitectural style and materials which have beencharacteristic of the area in which they are found.

Village – Group of dwellings and associated uses (e.g.small industries, shops, village hall, church) which togetherform a coherent whole.

World Heritage Site (WHS) – The United NationsEducational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO)encourages the identification, protection and preservationof cultural and natural heritage across the world consideredto be of outstanding value to humanity – World HeritageSites.

This Glossary provides a brief description of some of theterms used in the Management Plan and does not providea full comprehensive list or legal definitions.

64

APPENDIX 6Bibliography and References

Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Natural BeautyManagement Plan, April 2004

The Environmental Assessment of Plans and ProgrammesRegulations 2004 (Statutory Instrument 2004 No.1633)

Guidance for the Review of AONB Management Plans,Countryside Agency, September 2006

A Practical Guide to the Strategic EnvironmentalAssessment Directive, Office of the Deputy Prime Minister,September 2005

Guidance to English AONB Partnerships and ConservationBoards on Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) ofAONB Management Plans, Natural England, July 2007

Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of naturalhabitats and of wild fauna and flora.

The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) (Amendment)Regulations 2007 (SI 2007/1843)

IUCN The World Conservation Union (2002) ManagementGuidelines for IUCN Category V Protected Areas ProtectedLandscapes/ Seascapes

Report on the Species and Habitats Review, BiodiversityReporting and Information Group, UK BiodiversityPartnership, June 2007http://www.ukbap.org.uk/library/BRIG/SHRW/SpeciesandHabitatReviewReport2007andAnnexes1-3.pdf

Submitted Draft Regional Spatial Strategy for the NW ofEngland, NWRA, January 2006, policy EM1 – IntegratedLand Management,http://rpg.nwra.gov.uk/uploads/rpg_docs/rp_kMqZ_Submitted_Draft_Regional_Spati.pdf

Working with the grain of nature: a biodiversity strategy forEngland Defrab (2002) http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-countryside/biodiversity/biostrat/index.htm

North West Wetlands Network, Final Report, Jacobs Babtie(Environment Agency, English Nature), NWDA, 2006http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/commondata/acrobat/final_rpt145pages_1357750.pdf

The Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC). (2000)http://ec.europa.eu/environment/water/water-framework/index_en.html

Cleaner coasts, healthier seas - working for a better marineenvironment. Our Strategy for 2005-2011, EnvironmentAgency (2005) http://pml.live.tellonline.com/data/files/EA_CoastalStrategy.pdf

Rising to the challenge – A Climate Change Action Plan for England’s Northwest 2007-09. North West Development Agency (2006)http://www.nwda.co.uk/pdf/climatechange.pdf

Natural England Strategic Direction 2006-2009. Natural England(2006) http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/pdf/about/Natural_England_Strategic_Direction.pdf

A Sea Change. A Marine Bill White Paper. March 2007,Dept. for Environment Food and Rural Affairs

Meeting the Energy Challenge. A White Paper on Energy,May 2007, Department of Trade and Industry.

Countryside Character Volume 2: North West (CCP 356),Countryside Commission, 1998. (2005)

Cumbria Landscape Classification, Cumbria CountyCouncil, 1995.

AONB Monitoring – an analysis of the first outputs of CQC,Steve Preston, Natural England

Allerdale Local Plan, Allerdale Borough Council (1999) CCP 478 http://www.allerdale.gov.uk/environment-and-planning/planning/planning-policy/the-local-plan.aspx

Action for Biodiversity in North West England, AR Farrar,North West Biodiversity Forum, 2000.

Spatial Implications of Climate Change, North WestRegional Assembly,(2003). (Defra 2007)

Cumbria Climate Change Strategy, Draft for Consultation,Cumbria Strategic Partnership, 2007.

Cumbria Rights of Way Improvement Plan, Cumbria CountyCouncil, 2007

Cumbria Minerals and Waste Local Plan, Cumbria CountyCouncil, June 2000.

Cumbria Wind Energy Supplementary Planning Document.Adopted Version, Cumbria County Council (2007)www.cumbria.gov.uk/planning-environment/planning/policy/spd.asp

The Eden and Esk Catchment Abstraction ManagementStrategy, Environment Agency 2006http://publications.environment-agency.gov.uk/pdf/GENW0306BKIM-e-e.pdf?lang=_e

The Derwent, West Cumbria and Duddon CatchmentAbstraction Management Strategy. Environment AgencyApril 2007 http://publications.environment-agency.gov.uk/pdf/GENW0407BLXI-e-e.pdf?lang=_e

Catchment Flood Management Plans , Eden and Derwent (Consultation January 2006)

Open Green Spaces; An Introduction to their legal statusand protection, Friends of the Lake District

Cumbria County Council Information and Intelligence,Policy & Performance Report, September 2007

The Solway Coast Landscape Assessment, CountrysideCommission, 1995. Chris Blandford Associates

Carlisle District Local Plan (2001-2016) Revised Redeposit Draft www.carlisle.gov.uk/carlislecc/main.asp?

Cumbria and Lake District Joint Structure Plan 2001-2016Cumbria County Council (2006)www.planningcumbria.org/adopted/adoptedsp.asp

Cumbria Landscape Strategy, Cumbria CountyCouncil, 1998


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Th

ree

A

pp

end

ices


Managem

ent Plan P

art Three A

pp

endices

AONBs and protected landscapes to strengthen statusof the AONBs individually and collectively

Reporting and Monitoring

m) Provision of an Annual Review including provision of top3 annual best practice / successes (including those byS85 bodies)

n) Monitoring and reporting on progress against AONBManagement Plan targets (output monitoring) includingperformance indicators for the Partnership

o) Monitoring AONB landscape condition (environmentaloutcome monitoring) in conjunction with informationand analysis provided centrally by Natural England

APPENDIX 8IUCN Protected Areas andInternational ClassificationCategories of Protected Landscape

Guidelines published by IUCN and the World ConservationMonitoring Centre set out a ‘’protected area’’ as An area ofland and / or sea especially dedicated to the protection andmaintenance of biological diversity, and of natural andassociated cultural resources, and managed through legalor other effective means –

and further described six categories of ProtectedLandscape:

Areas managed mainly for:

I Strict protection 1a) Strict Nature Reserve

1b) Wilderness area

II Ecosystem conservation and protection – (i.e. National Park)

III Conservation of natural features – (i.e. Natural Monument)

IV Conservation through active management – (i.e. Habitat/species management area)

V Landscape/seascape conservation and recreation – (i.e. Protected Landscape/Seascape)

VI Sustainable use of natural resources – (i.e. Managed resource protected area)

All Protected Areas should aim to:

• Conserve the composition, structure, function andevolutionary potential of biodiversity;

• Contribute to regional conservation strategies (as corereserves, buffer zones, corridors, stepping stones formigratory species etc.);

• Maintain diversity of landscape or habitat and ofassociated species and ecosystems;

• Be of sufficient size to ensure the integrity and long-term maintenance of the specified conservation targetsor be capable of being increased to achieve this end;

• Maintain the values for which it was assigned inperpetuity;

The Cumbria Biodiversity Action Plan, Cumbria BiodiversityPartnership, (2001)

The Local Transport Plan for Cumbria 2006/07-2010/11.Cumbria County Council 2006http://www.cumbria.gov.uk/roads-transport/transportplan/ltp2from2006.asp

Shoreline Management Plan, Sub cell 11e, St Bees Head toScottish Border.http://mycoastline.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=120&Itemid=117

Cumbria Climate Change Strategy, Draft for Consultation, Cumbria Strategic Partnership, 2007http://www.cumbria.gov.uk/eLibrary/Content/Internet/536/646/39430114759.pdf

Allerdale LDF, Core Strategy, Issues and Options.September 2006http://www.allerdale.gov.uk/downloads/page1001/Core%20Strategy%20issues%20%26%20options.pdf

Local Development Scheme for Carlisle. 2001- 2016http://www.carlisle.gov.uk/pdf/PLAN_Local%20Dev%20Scheme%20new07-10.pdf

APPENDIX 7Core Functions of the AONB UnitManagement Plan

a) Developing, preparing, publishing and reviewing theAONB vision and the AONB Management Plan

b) Promoting the AONB Management Plan to helpdistinguish the AONB from adjacent countryside

c) Advising upon, facilitating and co-ordinatingimplementation by others of the Management Plan,including delivery by the team

d) Accessing resources for Management Plan activities

e) Developing an involvement by the community in themanagement of the AONB

f) Providing a management role to co-ordinate AONBprotection through the actions of the AONB Unit, theAONB Partnership and others at a local and strategiclevel

g) Problem solving with the Unit acting as co-ordinator andfacilitator

Advisory and Advocacy

h) Advising Local Authorities and other partners on theiractivities within AONBs, to encourage them to attain thehighest possible standards in AONBs

i) Working with and contributing to the NAAONB activities,sharing advice and best practice nationally andregionally

j) Providing landscape related planning advice (to localplanning authorities and in conjunction with NE asappropriate, in line with and underpinned by protocols)

k) Financial Support for NNAONB

l) Contribution and support to regional activity between

66

• Be operating under the guidance of a managementplan, and a monitoring and evaluation programme thatsupports adaptive management;

• Possess a clear and equitable governance system.

Where the UK fits into the International Classification:Both National Parks and Areas of Outstanding NaturalBeauty are assessed under the criteria developed by theIUCN as being Category V landscapes. This reinforces theaccepted UK legislation position of giving equal value toboth AONBs and National Parks.

It must be noted that British ‘’National Parks’’ do notcomply with the IUCN assessment criteria to be classifiedas National Parks i.e. Category II – Ecosystem conservationand protection areas. However, the IUCN recognises thatnames given to individual protected landscapes are mattersfor individual governments and nations and the guidancedoes not seek to be prescriptive regarding naming ofreserves or landscapes.

Category V: Protected Landscape/Seascape

Primary objectives

• To maintain a balanced interaction of nature and culturethrough the protection of landscape and/or seascapeand associated traditional management approaches,societies, cultures and spiritual values

• To contribute to broad-scale conservation bymaintaining species associated with cultural landscapesand/or by providing conservation opportunities in heavilyused landscapes

• To provide opportunities for enjoyment, well-being andsocio-economic activity through recreation and tourism

• To provide natural products and environmental services

• To provide a framework to underpin active involvementby the community in the management of valuedlandscapes or seascapes and the natural and culturalheritage that they contain

• To encourage the conservation of agrobiodiversity andaquatic biodiversity

• To act as models of sustainability so that lessons can belearnt for wider application

APPENDIX 9

AcknowledgementsThe preparation of this Management Plan has involvedmany individuals and organisations. It is not possible toname all the individuals and organisations who havecontributed to the review; the AONB Joint AdvisoryCommittee acknowledges their invaluable contributionsduring all the review stages and the consultationinvolvement.

The Joint Advisory Committee is indebted to the followingfor their guidance and advice:

Jenny Wain, Principal Planning Officer forCumbria County CouncilChris Addy, Environment AgencyMike Collins, English Heritage

Particular thanks must go to the following people fortheir perseverance and hard work in producing the newManagement Plan and Action Plan and carrying out theassociated Strategic Environmental Assessment:

Brian Irving, AONB ManagerRose Wolfe, Assistant AONB ManagerSue Hunter, Environmental Consultant

Officers of Natural England who have provided valuabletechnical guidance throughout the review andpreparation of the revised Plan include:

Stuart Pasley · Susannah England · Steve Preston

Photographs in the Management Plan are copyright to © Brian Irving (HELM Images), AONB Staff, © CharlieHedley/ Countryside Commission, Nic Ashby, CooperDouglas, Michael Barron, Wildfowl and Wetland Trust,Nikki Wingfield, RSPB. All images are protected bycopyright.

Data used in the preparation of the Management Planwas provided by:

Ordnance Survey · Defra · Office of National StatisticsEnglish Heritage · Natural England · EnvironmentAgency · Cumbria County Council · Cumbria WildlifeTrust · Tullie House Museum · Royal Society for theProtection of Birds · Cumbria Sea Fisheries CommitteeAllerdale Borough Council

Maps for the AONB Management Plan have beenprovided by Cumbria County Council (© Crowncopyright. All rights reserved Cumbria County Council(Licence No. 100019596)

Solway Coast Landscape Assessment, © CountrysideCommission 1995, Chris Blandford Associates.

Designed and Produced by Michaela Corrie Design([email protected])

This document and its accompanying reports may be

reproduced in full or in part, stored on any information system,

made available on the internet or otherwise re-published,

generally without charge and for the purpose of furthering

conservation and landscape management or for educational

purpose or public information, provided written permission

from the AONB Unit is obtained prior to use.


Man

agem

ent P

lan

Par

t Th

ree

A

pp

end

ices

Des

igne

d by

Mic

hael

a C

orrie

Des

ign

[m.c

orrie

@vi

rgin

med

ia.c

om]

ld164 solway coast aonb management pland 2010-2015...geographical context solway coast area of...

Documents