The Roaches

Staffordshire Wildlife Trust declared new managers of the Roaches

The county’s largest nature conservation charity is delighted to announce that it has been chosen as the new manager of one of Staffordshire’s most iconic landscapes, the Roaches.

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 near Leek, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

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.

The 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."

“The 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.”

The Trust will be working with the PDNPA to finalise the lease agreement over the next year and 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.

To support the Trust in looking after the Roaches by becoming a member, call 01889 880100 or visit www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk/page/membership

Roaches lovers can also 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).

 

 

You can read more about the decision on the Peak District National Park website here