Agenda item

The Conservation & Land Programme Manager presented the Report which was to provide an introduction to the Moors for the Future Partnership (MFFP) programme/project progress update covering the period April 2025 - April 2026.

There had been changes with legislation, deep peat which should be protected is now 30cm and greater a change from 40cm and greater. There have also been changes to control burning legislation.

Members discussed the following:

•         Collaborative work is being done with the Peak District National Park Authority to look at how to address conservation and land use change within the Park. Holding good data and statistics on certain species’ behaviour linked to changes in climate has shown both positive and negative changes. There is a need to look at quicker restoration efforts to ensure a functioning blanket bog.

•         The changes in legislation around the reduction in what defines deep peat and whether there would be a misallocation of resources was discussed. The change in legislation was welcomed but it still puts areas of peatland out of scope. A more holistic approach is needed in recognising the value in all peat landscapes.

•         The need to support green skills and jobs and barriers was discussed. There is hope the Project will receive funding from Central Government which could be used to fund apprenticeships.

•         Currently there is no sector specific body but a creation of such body could be done by a group of contractors and would be encouraged by Moors for the Future Partnership Programme.

•         Members were advised being interested and engaged about the sector and understanding the challenges and maintaining strong links is a great help to the Project.

•         Future farming models were discussed to ensure livestock and deer grazing does not negatively affect the work the Project is carrying out. Preventative measures are being implemented such as cattle collars, invisible fences and mechanical mowers to access difficult areas. 

•         To ensure a more resilient habitat, there had been changes in strategy on how planting and restoration work is now being carried out. Planting in clusters has meant a higher survival rate from damage caused by fires.

•         The pressures of reduced services, visible uniform presence and difficulty in recruiting into the Fire & Rescue are creating challenges. Local Authorities should be encouraged to create Public Space Protection Orders (PSPO) in order for police to enforce. High Peak Borough Council had recently got a PSPO which was welcomed.

•         Consideration for firefighting kits to be placed around the PDNP was discussed. Currently there are fire response plans which covers access, local land owners and what equipment they have so information can be accessed easily.

•         Engagement and educating of the public were discussed and previously Rangers had worked with Youth Services and Pupil Referral Units. In the past there was a commitment for every school child within the surrounding Local Authorities to have a visit day out.

•         The Moors for the Future Team were thanked for their report and the work involved.

•         Members were thanked for their support for the Project.

The recommendations as set out in the report were moved and seconded, put to the vote and carried.

RESOLVED:

1.      The Moors for the Future Partnership progress update (May 2026) is noted.

10:05am Cllr Nick Adams joined the meeting