Update: Owners of Honister Slate Mine to appeal zip wire decision made by Lake District National Park Authority planners

12:00pm Thursday 10th January 2013 in News Photograph of the Author By Stephanie Manley, Reporter

THE owners of Honister Slate Mine are set to appeal after Lake District National Park Authority planners refused their application for a temporary zip wire.

Jan Wilkinson said she was just waiting for the paperwork to come through from the authority and then she would put the process in motion immediately.

Vice-president of the Friends of the Lake District, Sir Chris Bonington, quit his role with the organisation in the immediate aftermath of yesterday’s decision.

He said he was appalled by the presentation put forward by Friends of the Lake District against the proposals, and that it was the ‘most unreasonable decision’ made by members.

Bonington, the famed Lake District-based mountaineer, has found his loyalties divided after championing the scheme, which the Kendal-based conservation charity has always opposed on environmental grounds.

He told the Gazette: "I'm sad for Jan (Wilkinson), the owner of Honister, and all those at the mine that have turned it not just into a great visitor attraction, but something that is informative and educational.

"The zip wire would have been something that would have given people a lot of enjoyment and excitement and would have been good for the Lake District as a whole."

Related links

Ms Wilkinson had argued that the zip wire was needed to generate additional income to financially support the slate side of the business.

Jonathan Denby, president of the Lakes Hospitality Association and hotelier, called the decision 'shocking'. "The Lake District is not a museum," said Mr Denby.

"We should be thinking of tomorrow's younger visitors, not the day before yesterday's."

But the Friends of the Lake District said there are more suitable places for zip wires.

A statement read: "We are pleased that the Lake District National Park Authority members agreed that the scale of this proposal in this location was inappropriate and the open fell should remain free from man-made developments, protected for everyone’s benefit.

“This is the best decision for the Lake District’s wider tourism economy now and in the longer-term.

“The decision reaffirms the previous refusal, recognising that recreational activities reliant on man-made infrastructure and harmful to the landscape should not be allowed in sensitive locations.

“Zip-wires and GoApe tree assault courses are best located in forest settings as they are in other parts of the UK.”

Today's decision mirrors a similar refusal by the LDNPA for a zip wire at the mine in September 2011 - when the same committee controversially allowed a zip wire, albeit far smaller, at its Brockhole Visitor Centre.

Officers at the LDNPA had recommended to the committee that it give approval to the latest Honister bid with certain conditions, but after hearing arguments for and against today, the majority vote of members was against.

The decision prompted a rebuke of the LDNPA from SLDC member, Tom Harvey, who said: "Unelected, unaccountable, undemocratic, anti-business and out of touch. It must be time for a serious shake up."

The mine had hoped to test public attitudes towards zip wires in open countryside by winning temporary planning permission from the LDNPA for a year in order to commission surveys to properly test people's reactions to the development in an open landscape.

However, key opponents included both Buttermere Parish Council and Borrowdale Parish Council which serve the communities directly neighbouring the tourist attraction.

The official reason given for the rejection was 'impact on the landscape'.
Within moments of the decision, the Honister Twitter account tweeted: "No Zip Wire for Honister :•( ," while the Friends of the Lake District tweeted: "Zip Wire turned down!"

The scheme was originally proposed by the late mine owner, Mark Weir, who was tragically killed in a helicopter crash in March 2011.

 

Members for:

John Thompson

Anne Hall

Bill Jefferson

Joe Holliday

 

Members against:

Jeremy Rowan Robinson

Norman Clarkson

John Hayton

Colin Barr

Sue Brown

Judith Cook

Mike McKinnley (chairman)
 

Comments(71)

Lakeuk says...
1:27pm Wed 9 Jan 13

So LDNPA quangos vote for their own zip wires but not for this :(

Report this post »

Ben Berry says...
1:31pm Wed 9 Jan 13

Terrible, terrible decision. Shame on you LDNPA.

Report this post »

sonofswampy says...
1:48pm Wed 9 Jan 13

SO the "Zip Wire" at Honister has been turned down by the planners. When the time comes will they turn down the planned GDF (Geological Disposal facility) in West Cumbria? I dare say not! visit www.spand.org.uk

Report this post »

Kent123 says...
2:33pm Wed 9 Jan 13

Lakeuk wrote:
So LDNPA quangos vote for their own zip wires but not for this :(
Well said. Brockhole has zip wires http://www.brockhole
.co.uk/visit/forchil
dren

Cumbria has too many quangos making too many decisions which affect the public.

And too many public bodies making too many decisions .....

Report this post »

caspa24 says...
2:36pm Wed 9 Jan 13

you wonder what planet some of these planning commitee's are on, hopeless, absolutely hopeless. folk and business's in our county are looking at all outlets and possibilities to get much needed revenues here, only for these dinosaurs to knock them back.

Report this post »

WestCumbria says...
2:49pm Wed 9 Jan 13

Why not pickle the Lake District in aspic and have done with it! Forget any future planning applications which may bring the 21st century into the area. Stop business owners with drive, determination and a will to see, not only their businesses, but also the area as a whole, thrive and grow. Once all of these nusiance applications shrivel up and die, only then the committee can pat itself on the back and congratulate itself as `job well done`. And if the mine closes, then that will add another cause to give them a warm glow. Sincere commiserations to all at Honister Slate Mine - it`s a sad day and completely the wrong decision.

Report this post »

wezzyk says...
3:22pm Wed 9 Jan 13

LDNPA I think this is a crazy decision, this is a business trying to develop just like the Brockhole park is having to allow them to survive.

Please LDNPA just hold up your hands and say you got this one wrong and help not just one local business but lots of businesses to not just survive but survive and thrive.

Report this post »

Moonbase says...
3:44pm Wed 9 Jan 13

They are turning this county into a 'Ghost Town'.
Yet another selfish nail in the coffin.
Distgusting!!!!!!

Report this post »

MJ-kendal says...
3:46pm Wed 9 Jan 13

The LDNPA listened to the "Friends" of the lake district. The key is who are these "friends", and what are they aiming to achieve. Perhaps more people who are open to progress should join so that the organisation better represents the people who *live* in the lake district. It seems they just want to stop anything changing.

Report this post »

ianrosie says...
4:28pm Wed 9 Jan 13

A very disappointing decision.

Report this post »

snuggle-bunny says...
4:40pm Wed 9 Jan 13

well done ldnpa for turning down (yet again) this ludicrous idea, Some people think they can ride rough shod over public opinion and do what they like. As for 'excitement and enjoyment' take a look around you at nature's ultimate adventure playground- If you cant find enjoyment etc there then I suggest staying at home. If Chris is so in favour of a mile long zip wire then perhaps he'd like to put one up near where he lives

Report this post »

Spotty Fish says...
4:40pm Wed 9 Jan 13

A crazy and selfish decision. How can the LDNPA be so wise when it comes to changing the car parking system, but so narrow minded and backward thinking when it comes to this zip wire.Beggars belief.

Report this post »

snuggle-bunny says...
4:40pm Wed 9 Jan 13

well done ldnpa for turning down (yet again) this ludicrous idea, Some people think they can ride rough shod over public opinion and do what they like. As for 'excitement and enjoyment' take a look around you at nature's ultimate adventure playground- If you cant find enjoyment etc there then I suggest staying at home. If Chris is so in favour of a mile long zip wire then perhaps he'd like to put one up near where he lives

Report this post »

WestCumbria says...
4:50pm Wed 9 Jan 13

snuggle-bunny wrote:
well done ldnpa for turning down (yet again) this ludicrous idea, Some people think they can ride rough shod over public opinion and do what they like. As for 'excitement and enjoyment' take a look around you at nature's ultimate adventure playground- If you cant find enjoyment etc there then I suggest staying at home. If Chris is so in favour of a mile long zip wire then perhaps he'd like to put one up near where he lives
Sorry snuggle-bunny - posting the same twice doesn`t convince me. I think you`ll find public opinion was hugely in favour of the scheme. And let`s not forget that Honister had agreed to trial it for so many months and get feedback on visitor views. You are entitled to your opinion of course but I`m sensing a slightly biased opinion - bask in your `warm glow`. Personally, I hope they appeal & if there`s a need for supporting them with public opinion, then I`ll help.

Report this post »

zaney5 says...
4:58pm Wed 9 Jan 13

snuggle-bunny wrote:
well done ldnpa for turning down (yet again) this ludicrous idea, Some people think they can ride rough shod over public opinion and do what they like. As for 'excitement and enjoyment' take a look around you at nature's ultimate adventure playground- If you cant find enjoyment etc there then I suggest staying at home. If Chris is so in favour of a mile long zip wire then perhaps he'd like to put one up near where he lives
I especially like the bit about people riding roughshod over public opinion.

Isn't that EXACTLY what the LDNPA have done?

Such a shame, this didn't get passed. I guess the LDNPA and the so called Friends of the Lake District won't be happy until the entire area has regressed 100 years.

Report this post »

Kendmoor says...
5:53pm Wed 9 Jan 13

Sad to hear it won't happen, I was looking forward to it! I really don't think public opinion was against the scheme at all, had spoken to all sorts of differen't people on the issue who all spoken in favour of it. Worrying that honnister could close also. Very friendly of the "friends" clearly Mr Bonington saw issue with what the group chose to be friendly towards..

Report this post »

sonofswampy says...
6:01pm Wed 9 Jan 13

If the local council leaders say "yes" on the 30th January, and ride roughshod over public opinion, a "civilised" government will continue with its plan to endanger an important part of its own beautiful country by seeking to bury high level nuclear waste in an area where according to the experts the geology is totally unsuitable. In addition to this, the local people (now they finally know what is being proposed) are making it quite clear they are not "willing volunteers" in the process despite what a blatantly flawed IPSOS MORI poll may suggest. Now THAT is riding roughshod snuggle-bunny!!!

Report this post »

searcher21c says...
6:09pm Wed 9 Jan 13

That of snuggle-bunny is the first and only "public" opinion I have heard against this. I wonder just how closely the various councillors' and representatives' opinions actually match those of their consitituents. And how many constituents are represented by the so-called "Friends"? I think I'll contact the Scots and suggest they put one of these alongside the Cairngorm funicular railway. After all, that's in a totally industrial area, isn't it?

Report this post »

marianneb says...
6:13pm Wed 9 Jan 13

A zip wire is of no significance whatsoever in the face of the diabolic plan to dump high level waste in a mega mine under Ennerdale or some other "most promising site". The hypocrisy of Friends of the Lake District and other supposed movers and shakers is astounding ...."Save the Forests! But let's play patsy with government and dump nuke waste under Lakeland's Forests,Mountains,La
kes and People"

Report this post »

Milkbutnosugarplease says...
6:20pm Wed 9 Jan 13

I didn't like the Honister people's tactics last year when they seemed to suggest that without the zip wire the Lakes is a boring museum piece. That climber Leo someone had a hissy fit too when the proposal was thrown out. I don't need a zip wire to enjoy hiking and camping, so I agreed with the decision. Nobody likes to be called an old fa*t!

This new compromise of testing people's reaction looks more reasonable. I would have given them the benefit of the doubt because some people want thrills rather than peace and quiet. Is there any way of appealing over the planners' heads to Eric Pickles? He seems a business-minded chap who might go with the jobs and revenue argument.

By the way, Chris Bonington lives in Caldbeck where the landscape has gentle hills rather than steep fells. I know it was a sarcastic jibe to put a zip wire on his home patch, but it would be a slow and boring ride. I think he was shrewdly looking to the future of tourism rather than being a NIMBY.

Report this post »

churchy66 says...
6:22pm Wed 9 Jan 13

Yet again narrow minded folk we want to turn the Lake District into a museum, terrible news. Friends of the Lake District should really change it's name, as they are not making friends - yet again they stick their heads in the sand. I really don't think they can grasp that the county needs to move forward - it can not be all Beatrix Potter and Wordsworth. A certain person will be turning their grave.

Report this post »

Moonbase says...
6:50pm Wed 9 Jan 13

Milkbutnosugarplease wrote:
I didn't like the Honister people's tactics last year when they seemed to suggest that without the zip wire the Lakes is a boring museum piece. That climber Leo someone had a hissy fit too when the proposal was thrown out. I don't need a zip wire to enjoy hiking and camping, so I agreed with the decision. Nobody likes to be called an old fa*t!

This new compromise of testing people's reaction looks more reasonable. I would have given them the benefit of the doubt because some people want thrills rather than peace and quiet. Is there any way of appealing over the planners' heads to Eric Pickles? He seems a business-minded chap who might go with the jobs and revenue argument.

By the way, Chris Bonington lives in Caldbeck where the landscape has gentle hills rather than steep fells. I know it was a sarcastic jibe to put a zip wire on his home patch, but it would be a slow and boring ride. I think he was shrewdly looking to the future of tourism rather than being a NIMBY.
Turbines? Lol

Report this post »

ANDREWWilk says...
6:52pm Wed 9 Jan 13

Two great decisions. Absolutely right to reject zipwire, and right of Chris Bonington to resign. A double boost for the wonderful Lake District.

Report this post »

BillyL says...
7:08pm Wed 9 Jan 13

Yes leaving a large slab of mud and turf un disturbed by a reasonable and small facility will bring great benefit...I don't think!
The public would benefit from the imaginative and profitable use of a very-very small portion of the National Park.
It is about time the way facilities and the use of National Parks is administered to be changed; this poor decision illustrates exactly why it should be.

Report this post »

cjmorphet says...
7:34pm Wed 9 Jan 13

How much harm could a couple of thin cables and well made footpaths cause the environment? Seems we are pro nuclear waste and Anti fun entrepreneurial ventures.

And to have allowed there own similar venture is just wrong.

It would be nice to see a more youthful generation included in the LDPNA's decisions.

Report this post »

hemyfan says...
7:37pm Wed 9 Jan 13

The Honister Mine is about the last publicly accessible remnant of lake district mining and rock exploitation that has lasted, with all the wealth generation, attendant noise and other pollution, for thousands of years. This decision may have ended tenuous connection and ruined the prospects of this brave venture. Shame on FOTLD and LDNP for such a narrow and selfish vision of the lake district. What about noise arising from their own zipwire by now tranquil Windermere?? However, I (don't) have absolute faith that both orgs will fight and oppose by all means possible the nuclear dump. It would now be entirely consistent with their "no development" policy. It requires political courage, and may alienate powerful interests. Which way do you think they'll go.....
My money's on them giving themselves planning permission to reinforce the fence they will be sitting on.

Report this post »

cjmorphet says...
7:37pm Wed 9 Jan 13

I really hope Westmorland Gazette run a poll on this story :)

Report this post »

Kendmoor says...
7:57pm Wed 9 Jan 13

I think they did cjmorphet - I can't remember the results of it, though even if they did...the way they phrase the questions sometimes for a yes/no answer isn't very subtle at what kind of answer or slant they're trying to put on it.

plus you'll always get the activists pulling together to swing votes one way or 'ther
http://www.purrsinou
rhearts.co.uk/index.
php?topic=36185.0

Report this post »

Kendmoor says...
7:59pm Wed 9 Jan 13

fixed URL:
http://tinyurl.com/b
8rn4km

Report this post »

Westmorlander says...
8:27pm Wed 9 Jan 13

Well done LDNPA and FOTLD, yet another stupid decision to help kill the Lake District and return it to the sleepy old days of Wordsworth and Potter. So much to look forward too!
Do any members of the committees live in this part if the world?
They have killed Windermere with the speed limit, what's next in their sights?
I dread to think.

Report this post »

dancer58 says...
8:56pm Wed 9 Jan 13

didnt get a big enough bung on this one then !

Report this post »

dancer58 says...
9:07pm Wed 9 Jan 13

dancer58 wrote:
didnt get a big enough bung on this one then !
whoops ment to say bungay !

Report this post »

8legs6legs says...
10:23pm Wed 9 Jan 13

Disappointing decision and wrong decision in my opinion. The planning officers recommended this project for approval and the Board rejected it, so it would be unfair to blame the planners. Honister should appeal, particularly because the professional assessment gave the zip wire a favourable recommendation.

Report this post »

BurtonWeb says...
10:34pm Wed 9 Jan 13

It seems that nuclear waste and above-ground electricity cables aren't as much of a blight on our landscape as one zip-wire then?

Report this post »

BurtonWeb says...
10:36pm Wed 9 Jan 13

Let's hope that Honister appeal, and let's support them if they do.

Report this post »

KendalSmithy says...
11:30pm Wed 9 Jan 13

So people yelling with delight at the thrill of zipping through the falling raindrops against the backdrop of a beautiful Lakeland valley would disturb the peace and tranquillity would they? Perhaps they would, but there's also a Sea of Tranquillity on the moon, and last time I looked through my telescope that place was silent and desolate. It's a shame Honister is likely to end up like that too.

Report this post »

sonofswampy says...
11:52pm Wed 9 Jan 13

Who has been amongst the tranquility of the fells and suddenly been scared half to death by an RAF aircraft flying at a height well below them? Tranquil my ar##!

Report this post »

lakesailor says...
12:11am Thu 10 Jan 13

Hardly a surprise that the LDNPA and FOLD have come to an agreement on this policy.
When you look at their cosy living arrangements and see that FOLD supply most of the research data for the LDNPA (until they claimed to have started running out of money) it is no surprise that the guardians of the National Park are running it just the way they like.

Public opinion is not part of their remit.

Report this post »

snuggle-bunny says...
12:21am Thu 10 Jan 13

why not build a fun fair as well- I mean look how many jobs where created with blackpool pleasure beach

Report this post »

mesa verde says...
1:56am Thu 10 Jan 13

This group would have opposed the building of the Hardknott Fort!

Report this post »

Spectric says...
8:35am Thu 10 Jan 13

The LDNP have made the right decision, the area is known for its outstanding natural beauty, not as a theme park. If the lake district is not giving you what you want then why come here in the first place, there is always the pleasure beach. What happens when people decide that they want to come to the area for snowboarding, do they expect the LDNP to provide snow !

The other issues are: temporary has a tendancy to become permeneant, and once a precendance has been set then you could open the flood gates for other theme park rides across the LDNP, what would Chris think if a fair was set up next to the pond on Caldbeck green or a off road course through Roughten gill.

Report this post »

KendalSmithy says...
9:00am Thu 10 Jan 13

It's crazy logic to go on about fun fairs. One zip wire should be allowed and monitored, and if successful and acceptable made permanent, but if it turns out to be a bad decision, simples, don't allow any more. That's how the authorities should be controlling things, rather than banning untried ideas outright.

Report this post »

Guillermo says...
9:39am Thu 10 Jan 13

Perhaps Sir Chris could now provide the Gazette with the mailing list of the so-called "Friends" of the Lake District - then we could see just how many of them actually have LA or CA post codes.

Report this post »

lizallan says...
11:47am Thu 10 Jan 13

these busy body meddling ousiders should be re-named FIENDS of the Lake District.i don't think any of them actually live here do they ???

Report this post »

jazzactivist says...
11:51am Thu 10 Jan 13

Sad news that LDNPA has refused this idea yet again. And as for the Friends of the Lake District, I think they are only really friends of one another and their own narrow view of the area. I live here and enjoy walking, but would also like to experience part of the Lakes in a different way. Why not from the exciting perspective of a zip wire? I think Honister is the perfect place for it, as placing zip wires in forests can't provide the same sort of open experience. Woodland is right for the Go Ape tree top walking, open vistas for zip wires. I hope Honister appeal this decision, with masses of public support, as it now seems that LDNPA are just being vindictive about the idea.

Report this post »

Spotty Fish says...
11:58am Thu 10 Jan 13

Spectric rightly says that the area is known for its natural beauty, not as a theme park. So what do you make of the circus of queuing to go up Striding Edge on a busy summers day? Outstanding "natural" beauty, peace and tranquillity at its best wouldn't you say?

And don't we already have a couple of ski tows in The Lakes, presumably man made, without anyone complaining?

Working in Ambleside and talking to locals and visitors, it is very easy to see that the LDNPA has possibly not made the most popular decision, for the majority of people anyway.

Report this post »

Whinfell Walker says...
12:48pm Thu 10 Jan 13

1st there was the speed limit implementation on Lake Windermere, now a simple fun zip wire!

These people want World Heritage Status!

Its coming, mark my words!

Report this post »

zaney5 says...
1:42pm Thu 10 Jan 13

lizallan wrote:
these busy body meddling ousiders should be re-named FIENDS of the Lake District.i don't think any of them actually live here do they ???
Looking on the website it appears for a fee ANYONE can become a friend of the lake district.

Report this post »

kendaliangirl says...
1:46pm Thu 10 Jan 13

Wasnt the idea of the zip wire a means of trying to help Honister Mine to get up off its knees and keep running?Or do all these planners secretly want to see the place fold.!

Report this post »

Neate&Tidy says...
3:25pm Thu 10 Jan 13

So, the LDNP have rejected the application. The so called Friends of the Lake District opposed it because it was 'at odds with traditional values' This inspite of over 900 years of industrial heritage in the area, numerous scars, old rusting machinery and a working mine.
Vice president of the Friends, Sir Chris Bonington, strongly disagreed with them. He supported the application and has since resigned from the post.

What gets me is not necessarily the fact I want to see a zip wire built although I do think the National Park has to ensure it's more than a 'living museum' and that it supports ways of increasing local employment. No, it's the hypocrisy. What about the insidious spread of inshore wind farms that blot much more beautiful landscapes than Honister. And nuclear waste disposal with the talk of using Ennerdale and even taking out some areas of the National Park to get planning permission (see link http://www.noend.org
.uk/Index.htm).


I feel for the Honister team and I wish them luck with their appeal.

Report this post »

A view From Cumbria says...
6:54pm Thu 10 Jan 13

It is decisions such as this which led me to oppose the two extensions to the two National Parks in South Lakeland.

Whatever the rights and wrongs, and I can see both sides, the decision has no democratic legitimacy and has managed to offend both those for and those against.

If the decision had been taken by the relevant district authority it might not have been taken any better but everyone voting would have known ultimately at the back of their minds that they had to justify thir own vote to their own electorate.

For what it is worth I think this is rather like the London Eye being built next to the iconic backdrop of the Palace of Westminister. It sounded dreadful before they did it but just imagine the uproar if anyone suggested removing it now.

If I were leading the appeal I would go for a public inquiry and concentrate my arguments on the last point above. I would expect to win.

Report this post »

8legs6legs says...
6:58pm Thu 10 Jan 13

For all those referring the precedent (and that includes the ill informed objection by FOTLD) - there is no concept of binding precedent in planning law. I cannot see any circumstamces that a similar proposal could come forward elsewhere in the Lakes. This landscape unit is defined as a post-industrial landscape in the LDNPAs own LCA document. Only Honister and The Old Man have this type of character. The Old Man has accessibility issues so this proposal could not be replicated there in a similar context. There is no other comparable situation in the LDNP.

Report this post »

twitchy says...
9:15pm Thu 10 Jan 13

This is the latest in a catalogue of bad decisions by the LDNPA and not only is the area suffering on account of them but we are losing valuable competent people such as Clive Hartley who resigned over the Canada Geese cull and now Sir Chris Bonington.
The commercialisation of Brockhole (bad decision) the commercial development of the Glebe (bad decision) the felling of an endangered tree(bad decision) the acceptance of a nuclear depository under the Lake District so long as"it doesn't interfere with the view"(bad idea.
Public inquiry!! (good idea) and well overdue.

Report this post »

Guillermo says...
9:26pm Thu 10 Jan 13

An ELECTED REPRESENTATIVE (such as the Secretary of State, or the Councillor heading the Planning Committee) would be screaming the reasons for their decision from their second rooftops - from LDNPA (LIttle Done, Nothing Palpable Acheived) we get NOTHING EXCEPT A HEADLONG RUSH TO HIDE BEHIND THE APPEAL PROCESS.

Come out, come out whoever you are.

Report this post »

Guillermo says...
9:32pm Thu 10 Jan 13

I'm ASKING for a comment.

Now you have freed your self of "corporate responsibility" Sir Chris - anything to say? Here?

Report this post »

friendofthelakes says...
1:46pm Fri 11 Jan 13

Lakeuk wrote:
So LDNPA quangos vote for their own zip wires but not for this :(
Another kick in the teeth for the enterprise culture.
Snowdonia National Park in Wales have recently launched 'Zipworld'. Well done to them. Wales recognises the economic value and the vital jobs that will be created.
The Lakes District must work harder to make the area more accessable to all instead of the 'exclusive' preserve of the privileged few.

Report this post »

itscommonsense says...
4:41pm Fri 11 Jan 13

This is just daft. It's a zip wire, not a roller coaster, and it's proposed for a location already ravaged by generations of industrial activity, which already has a track record of adventure activites, eg the via ferrata. It's effect on the environment and appearance of this part of the valley would be utterly negligible. Shame on FLD and LDNPA. While I'm a great supporter of the beauty and tranquility of the natural environment, they've got this one completely wrong.

Report this post »

Kendmoor says...
6:23pm Fri 11 Jan 13

Guillermo wrote:
I'm ASKING for a comment.

Now you have freed your self of "corporate responsibility" Sir Chris - anything to say? Here?
Don't think he needs to - leaving the "friends" speaks enough to his objections as it is.

Report this post »

life cycle too says...
6:38pm Sat 12 Jan 13

Spotty Fish wrote:
Spectric rightly says that the area is known for its natural beauty, not as a theme park. So what do you make of the circus of queuing to go up Striding Edge on a busy summers day? Outstanding "natural" beauty, peace and tranquillity at its best wouldn't you say?

And don't we already have a couple of ski tows in The Lakes, presumably man made, without anyone complaining?

Working in Ambleside and talking to locals and visitors, it is very easy to see that the LDNPA has possibly not made the most popular decision, for the majority of people anyway.
Quite right. Walkers are a danger to the fabric of the fells!

According to the LDNPA (back in 1999),
it was estimated that it would cost £5 million to repair all 145 paths, a process that would take 10 years.
Fix the Fell's web site states the
estimated amount needed to sustain the path repair work year on year is £478,000 per annum!
How much is contributed by the Friends of the Lake District?

Perhaps somebody could say how much it cost to put right the effects resulting from water skiing on Windermere?
How much was raised by selling registrations, and how much did SLDC make from charging for launching?

To be fair the officers of the LDNPA are in favour of the zipwire - it was the committee that turned it down.
Unlike a jury, they have no legal framework to follow - they can vote based on their feelings.
Unlike councillors and MPs, they cannot be voted for, or out of office at the next election - they are a law unto themselves - they are free to ignore the advice of the LDNPA paid officers.

Report this post »

BillP says...
1:01am Sun 13 Jan 13

Over 15 million people visit the Lake district every year, if the figures are to be believed. They come to enjoy the area's natural beauty.The planning decision was correct. If people want to ride a zip wire, put it in Blackpool. We don't need that sort of thing. When will the mine owners get the message ???

Report this post »

Spotty Fish says...
9:36am Sun 13 Jan 13

I think the mine owners have got the message loud and clear. The majority of people would like to see a zip wire (just look at the results for the question on the previous page). For some reason, a minority group are determined to force their will upon the majority (a bit like the bishops - and look at the fuss that caused).

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. The Lake District needs a massive re think. It needs to be looked at as a whole from top to bottom, by an elected committee of experts, locals and planners with the vision and passion to fulfil the potential of the area for residents and visitors alike. At the moment too many small groups are pushing their own agenda without a thought for how it affects other people. It's all very disjointed, badly organised and run, and basically lots of tinkering around the edges.

But will it ever happen? Can it change? Will it be allowed to change?

Report this post »

WestCumbria says...
9:59am Sun 13 Jan 13

Spotty Fish wrote:
I think the mine owners have got the message loud and clear. The majority of people would like to see a zip wire (just look at the results for the question on the previous page). For some reason, a minority group are determined to force their will upon the majority (a bit like the bishops - and look at the fuss that caused).

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. The Lake District needs a massive re think. It needs to be looked at as a whole from top to bottom, by an elected committee of experts, locals and planners with the vision and passion to fulfil the potential of the area for residents and visitors alike. At the moment too many small groups are pushing their own agenda without a thought for how it affects other people. It's all very disjointed, badly organised and run, and basically lots of tinkering around the edges.

But will it ever happen? Can it change? Will it be allowed to change?
I completely agree with you Spotty Fish and with the vast majority of the comments posted in favour. It`s become apparent that the refusal of permission for the zip wire is a symptom of a far greater issue - namely how does this all function and benefit the Lake District and its inhabitants? Not sure it does - it certainly doesn`t promote local democracy.

Report this post »

life cycle too says...
11:36am Sun 13 Jan 13

BillP wrote:
Over 15 million people visit the Lake district every year, if the figures are to be believed. They come to enjoy the area's natural beauty.The planning decision was correct. If people want to ride a zip wire, put it in Blackpool. We don't need that sort of thing. When will the mine owners get the message ???
Large numbers of visitors never set foot outside their cars.
Others restrict their activity to just looking, and large numbers actually walk onto the MANY hills and valleys to enjoy the CHALLENGE and EXERTION involved.
A few come to examine the history of the area - much of it located in remote valleys and on the hill sides - the Stone Axe factory, gunpowder works, mines, quarries, iron works, and Roman building and fortification.

There is also plenty of space and scope within the National Park for "adventure" activities... boating, ballooning, cycling, paragliding, walking, climbing, abseiling, gorge scrambling, quad biking, abseiling, pony trekking, raft building, canoeing on lakes, white water canoeing, kayaking, wind surfing, sailing, motor boating, clay pigeon shooting, off road driving, and visiting old workings.
Nearly all of these are available to novices with no previous experience.
Some result in a degree of exuberance on the part of the participants, with cries and shouts... usually the novices! Hot air balloons roar as the burners are fired to gain height, and on a quiet summer morning or evening can be heard over large distances.

A few days a year, the sound of rally cars disturbs the forests in some parts.
Along with all this activity we have men using chainsaws, helicopters flying on rescues, or moving materials to fix the fell paths, and despite recent setbacks, some quarrying, with occasional explosions, and large powerful vehicles moving the huge slabs of stone.
We have occasional visits from the RAF fast jets, and training aircraft - nearly all of which are temporary in nature, lasting a few moments... BUT on the whim of the LDNPA committee, (potential) whooping and hollering while sliding down one of the longest and highest zip wires in Europe WILL NOT BE TOLERATED by them or their allies "Friends" of the Lake District committee.

Sir Chris Bonnington's subsequent actions show that real "friends" of the Lake District are not necessarily restricted to the membership of "The Friends of The Lake District".
Indeed some of their members have been keen to make the point that the views expressed by the "FoLD" officers were not theirs, including Philip Johnson, of the Coniston Copper Mines site - no stranger to planning battles with the LDNPA!

We will never know how many of the visitors come for remote and quiet enjoyment of the hills unless we question them all. But the future of the Lake District as a tourism destination relies on the changing whims of the visitors with the most spending power, AND smallest impact on the environment.
With millions of pounds being spent on fixing footpaths, is it really the fell walker in pursuit of quiet enjoyment?
The car driver with their quest for a parking space?

Who is BillP going to vote off this week????

Report this post »

Spotty Fish says...
12:13pm Sun 13 Jan 13

Hear hear life cycle too. Good rant! Well said.

There must be something we can do?

Report this post »

Reverend Mark says...
6:06pm Sun 13 Jan 13

I dread to think what the additional traffic up and down the Honister Pass and the approach routes will do.

Report this post »

dragonhigher says...
6:15pm Sun 13 Jan 13

Spotty Fish wrote:
I think the mine owners have got the message loud and clear. The majority of people would like to see a zip wire (just look at the results for the question on the previous page). For some reason, a minority group are determined to force their will upon the majority (a bit like the bishops - and look at the fuss that caused).

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. The Lake District needs a massive re think. It needs to be looked at as a whole from top to bottom, by an elected committee of experts, locals and planners with the vision and passion to fulfil the potential of the area for residents and visitors alike. At the moment too many small groups are pushing their own agenda without a thought for how it affects other people. It's all very disjointed, badly organised and run, and basically lots of tinkering around the edges.

But will it ever happen? Can it change? Will it be allowed to change?
To be fair LDNPA have attempted to get everyone with an interest in the park together, they formed the LDNPA Partnership and have a clear set of agreed actions. You can read more about it on their website http://www.lakedistr
ict.gov.uk/caringfor
/partnership

Unfortunately their staff and their Members (who just turn up once a month to cast a vote on something or other) don't seem to sing from the same hymn sheet on many issues including this decision

Report this post »

life cycle too says...
7:39pm Sun 13 Jan 13

Reverend Mark wrote:
I dread to think what the additional traffic up and down the Honister Pass and the approach routes will do.
Who knows... if the zip wire were passed, apparently a huge number of people who go there for peace and quiet would give it a miss, and there would be LESS traffic!

Report this post »

8legs6legs says...
9:28pm Sun 13 Jan 13

Reverend Mark wrote:
I dread to think what the additional traffic up and down the Honister Pass and the approach routes will do.
The planners proposed a planning condition to limit the use of the zip line to users of the Via Ferrata (existing activity of Honister). The report described traffic impacts as 'negligible' (para 6.7), see for yourself....

http://www.lakedistr
ict.gov.uk/__data/as
sets/pdf_file/0006/2
97438/2013_01_09-All
erdale-Schedule-of-P
lanning-Applications
.pdf

Report this post »

carlspur says...
6:48pm Mon 14 Jan 13

yet another example from the LDNPA that tells us all , this park is theirs ....not ours.....but theirs !!. surely the comments on this subject speak for themselves , we in the majority would like to see the zip wire allowed, but sadly the LDNPA , never have been democratically elected so why are we so shocked at their ignorance to those who try to make a life in the Lakes and ignore those who are trying to attract more visitors to the area, which in this economic climate should be applauded . I wish Honister the very best and hope the decision is reversed.

Report this post »

Newlands says...
8:43am Tue 15 Jan 13

I'm from Holland and have been visiting The Lakes three times a year for about seven years. We enjoy walking (whatever the weather) on an - almost - daily basis. I used to carry the youngest and as they get older the walks get longer. The kids are 7 and 11 still enjoy throwing stones, playing in rivers etc. and when not walking crazy golf in Keswick, the Pencil museum, the Mining Museum are nice.
However as they get older they would like better alternatives for the days we're not walking, like a "thrilling" zipwire..

Report this post »

hogheaven says...
7:15pm Sun 27 Jan 13

I think its time the narrow minded LDNPA was zipped there just a bunch of time warped old **** RESIGN

Report this post »

click2find

About cookies

We want you to enjoy your visit to our website. That's why we use cookies to enhance your experience. By staying on our website you agree to our use of cookies. Find out more about the cookies we use.

I agree