Julian Glover joined top bosses from Northern Rail, Yorkshire Water, Heritage Lottery Fund Yorkshire & Humber and local councils on Friday 15th February at Calderdale College to discuss the establishment of a national recognition for the South Pennines.
The South Pennines are the only upland landscape in England which have not been provided statutory protection until now. However, Pennine Prospects, a rural regeneration company, has received support from local agencies, councils and the College, to develop a plan which will help create a self-declared South Pennines Park to be driven by the College’s students.
To support Pennine Prospects, three Business students conducted market research amongst 16-24-year olds to inform planning for the park. They presented the findings to Julian Glover during the visit and now aim to secure support from students across different education establishments within the boundaries of the South Pennines.
Julian Glover said:
“It’s great to see Calderdale College’s students getting involved in such a fantastic and rewarding project. They have put so much time and consideration into what the future of the landscape could look like, giving young people living in and enjoying the South Pennines a voice. Their opinions and expectations are hugely important as they are the future custodians of the area.”
Colleges, schools and universities across the South Pennines will be represented at the South Pennines Youth Panel which will launch after Easter and drive the future of the landscape. Using young people as leaders will enable sustainability of the area and will continue to develop socio-economic wellbeing.
Katie Clarkson, Calderdale College’s Level 3 Business student added:
“We are so excited to lead the South Pennines Youth Panel! Working with Pennine Prospects has given us project-based work experience providing us with the skills we need to land our dream job after we finish college.”
