Hammerton Packhorse Bridge, Slaidburn

At the heart of Britain lies the Forest of Bowland, designated as of importance to the nation in 1964 because of its outstanding natural beauty.

Lancashire folk are justifiably proud of their countryside and are frequently enjoy this national jewel discretely tucked between the better known areas of the Dales and the Lakes.

Those visitors who do travel to the area experience the beautiful countyside, revel in the rich heritage and find a wilderness of tranquillity, in a natural and living landscape.

In such an area, balancing the needs of the visitors and the local communities is a real challenge. In the Forest of Bowland, the public, private and voluntary sectors are working together to safeguard the character of Bowland for the enjoyment of future generations.

The Bowland Tourism and Environment fund was established: 

To demonstrate that tourism and conservation can be mutually supportive.

To raise funds to enable environmental work to be carried out.

To raise awareness amongst visitors of the fragility of the landscape and the need to protect it.

The collected money is distributed to groups working to improve or maintain the landscape. The scheme particularly seeks to fund environmental improvements, which although often small in scale make an immediate and highly visible difference.

In this scheme everyone benefits:

Much needed money is raised for environmental projects.

Environmental improvements make the area more attractive and enjoyable for visitors, who are then more likely to return and recommend the area to friends.

Businesses benefit from increased tourism.

Visitors to the area can make a genuine contribution to protecting the area they came to enjoy.

Applicants for funding from the scheme should write to:

Anne Borland, Regeneration Officer, Ribble Valley Borough Council, Council Offices, Church Walk, Clitheroe, Lancashire, BB7 2RA

Tourist attractions and accommodation providers interested in supporting the scheme please contact:

Janet Haigh, Lancashire Rural Futures, Waterloo Mill, Waterloo Rd, Clitheroe BB7 1LR.

Email admin@lancashireruralfutures.co.uk