Cumberland Council is encouraging residents, businesses and visitors to help shape the future of the Solway Coast National Landscape as a nine-week public consultation gets underway.
Working in partnership with Cumberland Council, the Solway Coast National Landscape Partnership has reviewed and updated its statutory Management Plan, which will guide the management of this important, protected landscape between 2027 and 2032.
The draft plan is now open for public consultation from Monday 2 November until Monday 4 January 2027, giving communities and everyone with an interest in the Solway Coast the opportunity to have their say.
As the key strategic document for the area, the Management Plan guides the conservation and enhancement work of local authorities, statutory agencies, land managers and community organisations over the next five years.
It identifies the coast’s distinctive qualities, including its wildlife habitats, saltmarshes and cultural heritage, while setting out priorities for protecting and enhancing the landscape and responding to future challenges.
Cllr Andy Semple, Chair of the Solway Coast National Landscape Partnership, said:
“The Solway Coast is a very special landscape, valued for its natural beauty, wildlife, heritage and the communities that help make it what it is.
“This Management Plan will set our shared priorities for the next five years, but it is important that it reflects the views and experiences of the people who live, work and spend time here.
“Whether you live locally, manage land, run a business or simply enjoy visiting the Solway Coast, we would really encourage you to take part and help us shape its future.”
Cumberland Councillor Elaine Lynch, Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Development, said:
“Cumberland Council is proud to work in partnership with the Solway Coast National Landscape Partnership to help protect and enhance this incredibly important part of Cumberland.
“The people who live, work and visit the Solway Coast have an important role to play in its future. This consultation is an opportunity for everyone to share their views and help shape the priorities for the years ahead.
“I would encourage anyone with an interest in the area to take a look at the draft plan and have their say.”
The consultation welcomes feedback from residents, land managers, community groups, and anyone invested in the future of the landscape.
How to get involved:
- Online: Copies of the draft Management Plan and the online feedback survey can be viewed and completed via the Cumberland Council consultation portal at https://consult.cumberland.gov.uk/ or via the official Solway Coast National Landscape website www.solwaycoast-nl.org.uk.
- Paper Copies: Those who prefer a paper copy of the draft plan or survey can request one by emailing [email protected] with their name and postal address.
The consultation will close on Monday 4 January 2027. All feedback received during the consultation will be carefully considered and used to help shape the final Management Plan before it is formally adopted.