Skipton MP Sir Julian Smith has visited the Bolton Abbey Estate to discuss key issues affecting land management, conservation and rural livelihoods.
Sir Julian received a tour and overview of Bolton Abbey's work with Estate Manager David Barrett when he visited last week (17th September).
Mr Barrett provided a detailed overview of the estate’s work and raised concerns about changes to regulations governing heather and grass burning, shooting, and licensing.
Speaking after the visit, Sir Julian Smith MP said:
“It was great to spend time at Bolton Abbey and learn more about the management of peatland across North Yorkshire in the years and decades ahead. Estates like Bolton Abbey have put so much effort and focus into caring for these moorlands. However, recent changes to regulations threaten their way of doing things and starts to put them back in the hands of bureaucrats in London.”
The visit comes amid growing debate around the Heather and Grass Burning (England) Regulations 2021.
The Moorland Association has called for a pause to amendments, citing flawed scientific evidence and risks to biodiversity and wildfire prevention.

Skipton Business Awards finalist and sponsors to appear on Your Skipton Radio
Drug dealer jailed after being stopped near Silsden
White Stuff set to open on Skipton High Street
66 Sheep Street tease opening with success of 'The Hatch'
Festival crowds expected to make Leeds station busier than ever
Skipton's new independent veterinary practice announces opening date
Dog bus vandalised in attempted overnight theft
Julian Smith MP presses Government on rural crime, farming support and fertiliser supplies
Everything you need to know about Skipton Live
Railway station's beer festival to start next weekend
Silsden green grocers and deli shortlisted for Keighley & Airedale Business Award
North Yorkshire Council chief executive to retire after almost 40 years
Skipton MP backs tougher social media restrictions for under-16s
Luke’s Big Push gets underway as Skipton team takes on 130 mile challenge
New guided walking tours launched in Skipton
New family-run restaurant to open in Skipton
New road at Kex Gill opens to traffic
Developer ordered to remove unauthorised Silsden woodland works
North Yorkshire Police recruiting volunteer officers
Olympic star Freya Anderson to inspire young swimmers in Skipton


