New managers of the Roaches
Monday 28th November 2011
The Roaches
One of Staffordshire’s most iconic landscapes, the Roaches, will be cared for by the county’s largest nature conservation charity.
Staffordshire Wildlife Trust has been selected by the Peak District National Park Authority (PDNPA) to take on a 125-year lease of the 395 hectare (975 acre) estate, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), near Leek.
The charity, whose work is supported by more than 16,000 members, has pledged to continue to care for the wildlife and cultural heritage of the Roaches, while ensuring free public access and enjoyment is maintained.
Staffordshire Wildlife Trust's chief executive, Guy Corbett-Marshall, said:
“We are absolutely delighted by this decision. As well as being a wildlife habitat of European importance, the Roaches is very popular with walkers and climbers, and we are committed to working to get the best for both people and wildlife.
“Staffordshire Wildlife Trust has over 40 year’s experience of looking after the county’s precious wild places and improving people’s access to the natural world, and we hope that lovers of the Roaches will join us as members so they can support us in caring for this special landscape.”
Staffordshire Wildlife Trust will be working with the PDNPA to finalise the lease agreement over the next year. The handover is expected to take place in spring 2013. The charity will be offering opportunities for local people and visitors to share their views and help shape the future of the estate.
Roaches lovers can sign up to receive news about the estate by emailing info@staffs-wildlife.org.uk and entering ‘Roaches updates’ in the subject box. Updates will also be publicised in the local press, on the website (www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk) and on the Trust’s Facebook and Twitter pages (@StaffsWildlife).
Support Staffordshire Wildlife Trust in looking after the Roaches by becoming a member, call 01889 880100 or visit www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk/page/membership.