Description

The sale represents a superb opportunity to purchase a ring fenced block of 325.32 acres (133.1 ha) of moorland and allotment, in the scenic Walden Valley south of Wensleydale. The land spectacularly rises from the valley towards the peaks of Penhill, Height of Hazely and Harland Hill.

Situated on the eastern flank of Walden Valley, the land sits between 210 and 530 metres above sea level and includes, grassland, bracken, ‘white ground’ allotment land, rocky outcrops, expansive open areas and heather moorland. Adjacent to the land lies significant heather moorland areas falling away to the Yorkshire Dales. The land surrounds and drains steeply into Thupton Gill, about 1 mile south of West Burton village, the watercourse leads to Walden Beck, Bishopdale Beck and ultimately into the River Ure.

The land benefits from direct vehicular access from Whiterow Road (a public highway) and a steep unmade road, known as Thupton Gill Road. There are further internal tracks suitable for small 4x4’s or rough terrain vehicles.

The land lies outside of any Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Special Area of Conservation (SAC) or Special Protection Areas (SPA).

The sale offers significant natural capital, amenity, biodiversity, and environmental opportunities, with rare flexibility for such a parcel. Future management could take the form of biodiversity and habitat enhancement, such as heather restoration and where appropriate peatland restoration. In addition the land could offer opportunities for Natural Flood Management and Afforestation.

The majority of the land sits above the moorland line and with a successful heather restoration programme could provide future sporting amenity and enjoyment for a purchaser.