Sam Redfern

I am a working sheep farmer with a deep connection to the land, managing livestock and maintaining the traditions and challenges of rural life. Alongside farming, I run a small business with my family operating log cabin holiday lets, welcoming visitors and supporting the local rural tourism economy.

In addition to my business interests, I serve as a County Councillor, representing my community and advocating for rural issues, economic development, and public services. Balancing these roles gives me a strong, practical understanding of both the opportunities and pressures facing rural areas today, and I am committed to ensuring our communities remain vibrant, sustainable, and well-supported.

The Peak District National Park faces several ongoing challenges, particularly around farming viability and affordable housing for local residents:

Farming difficulties

Farming in the Peak District is often marginal and financially challenging. Much of the land is upland, with poor soils and harsh weather, meaning farmers rely heavily on livestock (especially sheep) rather than high-value crops. This leads to:

•          Low profitability, as production costs are high but returns are relatively low.

•          Dependence on subsidies, and uncertainty around changes to agricultural funding.

•          Pressure to balance conservation and productivity, as farmers must follow strict environmental regulations within the national park, which can limit expansion or intensification.

Shortage of affordable housing

Housing is a major issue for local communities:

•          Property prices are driven up by tourism and second-home ownership, making it difficult for local people to buy or rent.

•          Many homes are used as holiday lets or second homes, reducing the supply of permanent housing.

•          Younger families and workers are often forced to move away, leading to ageing populations and difficulties sustaining local services such as schools and shops.

Overall impact

These issues combine to create a cycle where:

•          Farming families struggle to maintain livelihoods,

•          Young people leave due to lack of housing and jobs,

•          Communities become less sustainable over time.

In short, the Peak District must balance preserving its landscape and tourism appeal with supporting working farms and viable local communities