Meeting the Minister!

October 10, 2011

Last week was very exciting as YDMT met Richard Benyon, MP and Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Natural Environment and Fisheries.

Richard met with us and the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority (YDNPA) whilst he was in the Dales, and we explained the unique relationship between YDMT and YDNPA.  – It is a special and important partnership which has brought about many beneficial projects and developments.

Some of the issues currently affecting the Yorkshire Dales were also discussed, including sustainable energy… The group visited Linton Falls Hydro scheme – a project which was funded by the Sustainable Development Fund (SDF) which provides grants to individuals, businesses, local authorities and community groups to fund sustainable new business ideas and community projects in our National  Parks.  The fund was launched in July 2002 and is funded by the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). Here in the Yorkshire Dales, SDF is managed by YDMT on behalf of the YDNPA (an example of our partnership in action).

The current state of economic difficulty and the changing face of funding were discussed, and the Big Society agenda and how it might impact on the future of the Dales were considered.

… Overall, a very interesting and useful meeting.  We’ll keep you posted on any developments!