A CAMPAIGN to see the Lake District recognised as a World Heritage Site has received the backing of South Lakeland District Council.

World Heritage Site (WHS) status would place the Lake District alongside destinations including the Taj Mahal, Tower of London and Great Barrier Reef in its worldwide importance.

Sites are designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) that have such a cultural/or natural significance ‘which is so exceptional as to transcend national boundaries and to be of common importance to present and future generations of all humanity.’

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SLDC is a member of the Lake District National Park Partnership, which comprises 26 local and national organisations, agencies and authorities, that are behind the bid.

A report to today’s council Cabinet said WHS status would have several benefits, including raising the Lake District’s international profile, boosting tourism - particularly cultural tourism, improving the area’s ability to secure funding and investment, improving the sustainability of the Lakes’ upland farming and promoting the area as a world class place to do business.

The Government has already confirmed that the Lake District will be the UK’s official World Heritage nomination when it is submitted to UNESCO by January 2016. A decision on the bid is expected by May 2017.

Today’s Cabinet meeting voted to endorse the partnership’s bid for WHS status. Full Council recommended the bid be endorsed at its meeting in December.

The Cabinet report says WHS status would ‘complement and add value’ to key council priorities, including developing a understanding of the district’s superb natural environment, helping to make the case for investment in sustainable travel such as cycling, supporting health and wellbeing strategies by promoting the district’s cultural heritage and strengthening South Lakeland’s overall economic development.

SLDC’s Portfolio holder for Strategic Growth, Cllr Jonathan Brook, said: “Our endorsement will help to add weight and influence to the bid and I believe this represents a unique opportunity.

“World Heritage Site status would not only affect  the Lake District National Park – which is the area covered by the bid – but would also benefit the long-term economic prospects for the whole of South Lakeland.’’