Fountains Abbey to be protected against flooding

It's thanks to a £1.4m National Lottery grant.

Author: Harry LongPublished 14th Jan 2021

A project to protect Fountains Abbey near Ripon from flooding has been given the green light after a £1.4m grant.

The National Lottery grant will pay for 12 miles of restoration work on the the River Skell - as well as tree planting, and the creation of new meadows and ponds.

The Abbey is at risk of being damaged after flooding in the area in recent years.

Flooding in the north of England has increased in severity in the past 50 years and the risk is high in the Skell catchment. In 2007 a significant flood had devastating effects on the archaeology at Fountains Abbey.

Despite efforts to tackle the effects of extreme weather, flooding and silt-build up continue to threaten the valley’s heritage and ecology.

The plans will boost wildlife in the valley, and it is hoped that populations of rare species such as curlew, white-clawed crayfish and golden plover will increase.

Harry Bowell, Director of Land and Nature at the National Trust, said: “This is a significant marker in the history of this fascinating valley – and an important moment for the Trust. Climate change is eroding away nature and heritage and only by working across our boundaries, with local people and partners, and with nature, will we be able to make a real difference.

“We’re incredibly grateful to The National Lottery Heritage Fund. It’s fantastic to have their support, especially at a time when local economies have been hit so badly by the pandemic and access to green space has never felt more urgent.”

Much of the work will take place in Nidderdale AONB. The nationally protected landscape is home to important habitats and rich in wildlife, with many sites designated for their local, regional or international importance

Councillor Nigel Simms, Chair of the Nidderdale AONB Joint Advisory Committee, said: “We’re delighted that The National Lottery Heritage Fund has given us this support. Through the Skell Valley Project, we’ll be able to trial innovative approaches to pressing issues such as climate change, flooding and land management.

"We’ll work closely with local farmers and landowners across the Skell Valley to put in place nature-based solutions that will reduce flooding and improve biodiversity in and around the river.

“We’re looking forward to working with the sixteen organisations that make up the Skell Valley Partnership. The Partnership, together with people from across the area, will enhance the Skell’s natural environment, reveal more of the beautiful Skell Valley and provide greater access for people to visit this wonderful part of Yorkshire.”

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