The Staffordshire Wildlife Trust are to take on the management of the Roaches.  This popular stretch of rocky moorland near Leek in Staffordshire, which is popular with rock climbers and walkers, has been in the ownership of the Peak District National Park since 1980.
Staffordshire Wildlife Trust plans to:
• continue to look after the estate’s wildlife and cultural heritage
• work to enhance the estate’s biodiversity
• continue to improve access and footpaths
• encourage more involvement from local people and communities

Staffordshire Wildlife Trust is expected to begin its 125-year lease period in spring 2013 once detailed negotiations have been completed and legal agreements signed. These will ensure public access to the estate and require them to continue the restoration and conservation of habitats. Shooting rights have been specifically excluded from the lease and are retained by the Authority.

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