Working with Communities

I have organised a training programme for local communities in Cumbria for the Our Green Space project.

I led ten sessions that aimed to de-mystify management plans and enable volunteers to prepare plans for their local sites. This covered how to take account of heritage, biodiversity, access, recreation and interpretation; where to seek expert advice; and how to set aims, objectives and actions.

Feedback from participants was positive, and most groups are now busy writing their plans.

Our Green Space project is funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and managed by Friends of the Lake District in partnership with Action with Communities in Cumbria.

I was appointed by Cumbria County Council to implement the management plan for Millom Ironworks Local Nature Reserve and to develop the role of the Friends group. Working closely with the Friends and in consultation with the local community, I prepared a successful Community Spaces bid for wildlife and access improvements.

I have completed a management plan for Kiln Howe Village Green at Threlkeld, working closely with the Parish Council.