I AM writing in response to a recent article about the sale of land between Rydal and Ambleside (Gazette, September 5, 'National Park land sale raises concerns').

The sale of any land in this World Heritage Site should be met with caution. The special character of the landscape depends on the mix of ancient woodlands, lakes, fells and wetlands.

I was surprised and saddened by the recent discovery that White Moss Common has been put up for sale by the Lake District National Park Authority. This mixed ancient woodland wetland is an important wildlife corridor and provides a habitat for a diverse range of species, from wagtails to colonies of lichens.

As a local resident this diverse ecological habitat has been a favourite place for quiet, meandering walks. The site has a long and rich history as a communal place of work and leisure.

It features in the Grasmere Journals of Dorothy Wordsworth as "This White Moss, a place made for all kinds of beautiful works of art and nature, woods and valleys, fairy valleys and fairy tarns, miniature mountains, alps above alps".

I would like to add my voice to those concerned for the future of the site now it has been put up for sale. I am sure I am not alone in hoping the land, which has been parcelled into six lots, will be acquired by a local or national organisation willing and equipped to preserve it for the enjoyment of future generations.

To safeguard the county’s rich wildlife and special character, ecological corridors like White Moss must and should be protected.

Jessica Sneddon

Windermere