Fact or Fiction: Kinder Scout
Fact or Fiction: Is it really necessary to fence off Kinder Scout?
What’s all this about a fence? The National Trust, which owns Kinder Scout, is erecting a temporary sheep-proof fence this spring around a 3,393-acre (1,374ha) area of the 610m/2,000ft summit, as part of a £2.5 million project to help restore the delicate moorland. There will, though, be multiple access points for walkers to still visit the site of the world-famous 1932 Mass Trespass. (Visit www.kinder-scout.co.uk for more details.)
Where exactly will it run? On the north side of Kinder Scout, from Park Hall Moor to Fair Brook, and the eastern boundary from Fair Brook to Blackden Brook, and across the open plateau to Grindsbrook, joining existing fences to the western and southern edges.
How long will it be in place? Up to 15 years, depending on how quickly moorland vegetation takes to establish.
Why do they need to do it? “Wildfires, overgrazing, air pollution and thousands of visitors have made it one of the most damaged moorlands in the UK,” says the National Trust’s Mike Innerdale. “We need to take action now, with our partners, to save Kinder for the future.”
Were the public and walkers consulted? Several months of consultation revealed a high level of support for the plans, with submissions from individuals and local groups such as Greater Manchester and High Peak Ramblers. There was some debate over the precise line of the fence, which has since been amended and new access points added. “We are really grateful for the helpful contributions from groups like the Ramblers,” says Mike.
What do the Ramblers think? Sheffield Ramblers’ Terry Howard, who also chairs the Kinder Advisory Group, says: “It’s important to know that walkers will still have access, attempts
will be made to minimise the visual intrusion, and the fence will only be temporary until Kinder flourishes again.”
walk’s verdict? It’s tough seeing any fences around such a potent symbol of the access movement, but it’s in everyone’s interests that the National Trust’s project is given the chance to work.
