Socio-economic study of grant-funded traditional drystone wall and farm building restoration in the Yorkshire Dales National Park
In recognition of the landscape and cultural heritage importance of traditional farm buildings and field boundaries in the Yorkshire Dales, landowners and farmers have been eligible to apply for agri-environment grant funding to preserve these features in a traditional style. Using data captured through a survey of agreement holders, building contractors and an analysis of grant files, this study examined the socio-economic benefits of the grant-funded restoration schemes for the National Park and its adjacent communities.
Findings from the study, which involved Paul Courtney, Peter Gaskell and Jane Mills, revealed significant local benefits of the schemes for the building industry and wider local economy in terms of income and employment generation. Findings also highlighted the wider benefits of maintaining these features for public enjoyment of the landscape and in turn the likely benefits through the tourism industry.
The CCRI collaborated with ADAS on the project, which was funded by English Heritage, Defra and Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority. Paul and Peter presented findings from the project at a press event organised by the sponsors in June 2007.
