FAQs

What has changed since the 1980’s bid?

There is no guarantee the bid will succeed this time, the Lake District will be evaluated by international experts. Over 30 sites around the world are considered for inclusion each year. Our bid in 1985 under the Natural Area category was deferred as the Lake District does not pass the test of “natural integrity” because it is a living, working landscape.  Following on from that deferment UNESCO took a look at its criteria and developed the new category of “cultural landscape” for areas like the Lake District. Questions were also raised about Cumbria’s ability to deliver a World Heritage Site Management Plan, as there was no local management of agriculture and forestry. However that issue has now been remedied with the introduction of the Environmentally Sensitive Area scheme and the development of Forest Design Plans.