Hello and welcome to our autumn Environment and Climate Newsletter!
As autumn arrives, we’re pleased to share the latest updates and highlights from across Cumberland – showcasing the positive impact of local action, investment, and partnership in our communities.
This season, we’re celebrating the success of our Community Panels, which have invested more than £300,000 in grassroots environmental projects since Cumberland Council was formed in 2023. From energy-efficient heating in community buildings to new gardens, orchards, and wildlife habitats, 85 projects are already helping tackle climate change and enhance nature across the region.
We’re also highlighting the importance of responsible enjoyment of the outdoors, following a recent environmental offence in the Ennerdale area. Thanks to swift action by council officers and partner agencies, those involved took part in a clean-up operation and gained a greater understanding of how their actions impact our shared natural spaces.
In this edition, we also share news of a major £11.8 million investment from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero to improve energy efficiency in up to 800 fuel-poor homes across Cumberland and Westmorland and Furness. The three-year programme, funded through the Warm Homes Local Grant, will help households cut energy costs and live more comfortably.
We look ahead to a new era of local leadership for Cumbria, as councils give their final consent to Government devolution proposals. The creation of a Mayor-led Combined Authority will unlock significant powers and funding – including a £333 million investment fund – to drive regeneration, strengthen local decision-making, and support the county’s ambitions for sustainability and inclusive growth.
Finally, after two years of dedicated work we have launched the Cumbria Local Nature Recovery Strategy. This is a powerful strategy for nature recovery, and Cumberland Council is proud to be a key partner in this vital effort.
The launch of this bold strategy brings together the public, private, and third sectors in a county-wide mission to make our shared landscapes richer in nature, for everyone to enjoy.
With kindest regards
Bob Kelly
Executive Member for Cumberland Policy and Regulatory Services
Image is of Cumberland Councillor Bob Kelly, Executive Member for Cumberland Policy and Regulatory Services
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Cumbria has officially launched its Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS), becoming the tenth LNRS to be published in England.
The strategy has been led by Westmorland and Furness Council, working in close partnership with Cumberland Council, the Lake District National Park Authority, the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, and Natural England.
Now finalised and submitted to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), the Cumbria LNRS will act as a crucial guiding document for nature recovery work across the county. The strategy will be reviewed periodically - every three to ten years - to ensure it remains relevant and effective in responding to Cumbria’s evolving environmental needs.
 Last week, a group of Pre-Supported Internship learners from Carlisle College proudly completed their first litter pick as part of our Litter Champions initiative.
Putting their new communication, teamwork, and health & safety skills into practice, the group worked together to collect five bags of rubbish along the Strand Road side of Zero Path, leaving the area cleaner and tidier for everyone to enjoy.
Their enthusiasm and commitment made a real difference, and they’ve set a fantastic example of community pride and collaboration in action.
Well done to all involved – a great start to their journey as Litter Champions!
Image shows the group of Litter Champions from Carlisle College
United Utilities are proud to share they have launched a new campaign, ‘change the cycle’ to engage with customers on the disposal of period products. They recently conducted research with more than 1,700 women across the North West and found that a quarter of them had recently flushed a period product. With an estimated 4.6 million disposable period products being flushed down loos across the country every day, they were keen to understand more about why products are flushed.
The new campaign aims to raise awareness and encourage women to ‘wrap it and bin it’ disposing of period products in the bin, rather than flushing. Flushed period products can cause blocked toilets, pipes, and drains and lead to sewer flooding. United Utilities hope the campaign will have a positive impact and dispel the myth that period products and packaging are safe to flush. It’s now time to ‘change the cycle’. Please don’t flush. Put period products and packaging in the bin.
Find out more about the change the cycle campaign here: Change the cycle | United Utilities
Image shows an infographic from United Utilities
Since forming in 2023, Cumberland Council has invested more than £300,000 in grassroots environmental projects across the region. Through its eight Community Panels, the council has supported 85 initiatives focused on tackling climate change and enhancing nature. Projects include installing energy-efficient heating in community buildings, creating gardens and orchards, and protecting local wildlife.
Colin Cox, Director of Public Health, Customer and Community Wellbeing, said the panels play a key role in delivering the council’s Climate and Nature Strategy, with communities developing sustainable, locally focused solutions.
Investments have helped make buildings greener with modern heating systems, solar panels, and LED lighting. Wildlife and nature projects, such as hedgehog conservation and improved access at Watchtree Nature Reserve, are also thriving. Additionally, small grants have encouraged sustainable transport, like new cycle racks in Keswick—supporting Cumberland’s vision for a cleaner, greener future driven by community action.
Click here to read Cumberland Council’s climate and nature strategy: Climate change and natural environment | Cumberland Council
 Solway Firth Partnership / Solway Coast National Landscape Joint Conference is a must-attend event for all interested in exploring the wonders of the Solway Firth region. Join us on Friday 14 November 2025 at The Halston, Carlisle.
Discover the rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse wildlife that make the Solway Firth area truly unique. Engage in thought-provoking discussions with renowned experts, exchange ideas, and gain valuable insights into the preservation and future development of these extraordinary marine and coastal ecosystems.
Whether you are employed in the sector of place, environment and sustainability, run your own business on the Solway or simply passionate about the Solway Firth, this conference offers a platform to connect with like-minded individuals and expand your knowledge. Immerse yourself in a day filled with captivating presentations, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities.
Don't miss this chance to be part of the Solway Firth Partnership / Solway Coast National Landscape Joint Conference and contribute to the conversation surrounding the sustainable future of our cherished marine and coastal environment. Mark your calendars and secure your place for this unforgettable event!
Image shows an aerial view of the Solway Coast
 We responded to an environmental offence in the Ennerdale area, after a group of individuals visiting from Wigan were found to have wild camped and left significant litter and waste behind.
While wild camping itself is not an offence, the behaviour in this case, including littering and environmental damage, was a breach of the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) in place to safeguard the local landscape.
The individuals involved were identified and, in collaboration with Cumberland Council and partner agencies, agreed to participate in a council-led clean-up operation in Ennerdale as a means of taking responsibility for their actions. Those involved now have a clear understanding of the impact their behaviour had on the environment.
The litter pick, which took place with support from council officers, involved removing waste left at the site. Cumberland Council provided equipment and arranged for the disposal of all collected rubbish.
Image shows a picture taken from the Ennerdale clean up
 Did you catch the Solway Coast National Landscape on BBC Countryfile? If not, you can catch up now on BBC iPlayer.
In early September Solway Coast National Landscape (SCNL) staff were thrilled to welcome BBC Countryfile to Mawbray Banks Nature Reserve alongside special guest, Howard Inns, vice chairman of the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust (ARC). Together they took a closer look into the life of the highly protected natterjack toads who call Mawbray Banks their home.
Mawbray Banks Nature Reserve is a thriving coastal dune system, which is carefully managed and provides an ideal habitat for this endangered species of toad. The camera crew captured the hard work of SCNL volunteers, discussed management techniques with staff and were even lucky enough to witness these elusive amphibians making the most of their sandy surroundings.
The episode also features many of the Solway Coast National Landscape’s partner organisations, including RSPB, Natural England and Castletown Estate, all who proudly represented this wonderful place we call home.
Image shows the TV crew filming the Solway Coast segment on Countryfile
 The Rebuild Site CIC reuse hub has a section where you can refill a wide range of cleaning products and toiletries from laundry liquid, floor cleaner, washing up liquid and hand soap to shampoo, conditioner and bubble bath.
Last year the refill shop saved about 500 bottles being thrown away. This year their aim is to make it 1000.
If you’ve never been and aren’t sure how it works just ask and the staff are happy to help. Just bring in your clean containers, weigh them, fill with the product you want, weigh them again, then pay.
If you’re interested in other refill options in Cumbria, then check out ReCa in Wigton, Another Weigh in Penrith and Kendal and Goodness and Grain in Cockermouth.
Rebuild Carlisle has a new location!
The Rebuild Site CIC is now located on Heathlands Industrial Estate, Carlisle, CA6 4RP. The new site is four times bigger than where they were before and so allows the team to have even more stock, even more workshops and even more sustainability focused events.
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Images show the refill centre at Rebuild Carlisle
 In partnership with Active Cumbria, we have launched a series of new walking maps for Hammond’s Pond, Carlisle, to encourage residents to get active and enjoy the outdoors.
The maps feature a range of walking routes around the park, each showing the distance, step count, and estimated calories burned, making it easy for everyone to track their activity while exploring nature. Walkers can also spot small improvements and enhancements throughout the park, turning each stroll into a fun “spot the difference” experience.
Copies are available at community venues including The Rock Youth Project, St Margaret Mary Church and Community Centre, Currock Community Centre, Carlisle Library, and the Café at Hammond’s, as well as online at www.thehikinghousehold.com.
Promoting walking, cycling, and wheeling is central to Cumberland Council’s health and wellbeing goals, inspiring healthier lifestyles, reducing congestion, improving air quality, and building greener, more connected communities.
Image shows one of the new Active Travel maps at Hammond's Pond
The BTO (British Trust for Ornithology) has just released their very first newsletter for Birds in Greenspaces - an exciting new project encouraging people to build a connection to their local space by recording birds, to find out the important role these greenspaces play for them.
By recording the birds you see, you’ll help uncover the vital role these spaces hold — all while building a deeper connection with your local environment.
Ready to get involved? Sign up and find out more here: Home | BTO
Image shows a bird sitting on a branch
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 Earlier this autumn, children from Lowther Endowed School and Little VIPs Daycare rolled up their sleeves for a community planting day in Lowther Village, organised by Eden Housing Association and supported by Hyperfast GB, delivered by Fibrus.
The event, part of Cumbria Wildlife Trust and Fibrus’ Get Cumbria Buzzing, Not Buffering project, saw pupils planting wildflowers to help create and restore vital pollinator habitats, while learning about the importance of biodiversity and protecting the environment.
Funded by Fibrus, the initiative is working with communities across Cumbria to create and restore flower-rich spaces for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, while also giving young people the chance to connect with nature and take pride in their local environment.
Hyperfast GB is proud to support projects like this - helping communities get connected, both digitally and with the nature on their doorstep.
Images show pupils from Lowther Endowed School and Little VIP's Daycare planting wildflowers
Cumbrian Councils have been awarded £11.8 million from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero to make fuel-poor homes more energy efficient.
Funded by the UK Government’s Warm Homes Local Grant, the three-year programme will benefit up to 800 homes across Cumberland and Westmorland and Furness by providing fully funded upgrades to improve energy efficiency and help cut household bills.
We’re delighted to share that Raise: Cumbria Community Forest has been named Forest of the Year by England’s Community Forests – a national network of 15 forests working to create greener, healthier places for people and nature.
The announcement was made at this year’s Community Forests conference in York, recognising Raise’s inclusive, creative and community-led approach to woodland creation.
Raise was recognised for the values that guide its work – including increasing access to nature and ensuring woodland is designed with and for the people who live nearby. The award celebrates the strength of a collaborative approach that centres neurodivergent perspectives, supports nature recovery, and enables long-term partnerships with farmers, landowners and local communities.
Since launching in 2022, Raise has supported the planting of over 330,000 trees across Cumbria, and in 2025 its Forest Plan was formally adopted by Cumberland Council and approved by the Lake District National Park Authority. It sets out a long-term vision to expand tree cover, restore habitats, and increase access to woodland for all.
Image shows a photo of the team taken at the awards ceremony
Cumberland Council’s Highways & Transport service has signed up to the ADEPT Carbon Leadership Programme. The programme, supported by Department for Transport, will fund local highway authorities to measure and identify how to reduce their carbon emissions.
It provides a simple, standardised way to calculate how much carbon is emitted from local road maintenance activities and where best to direct efforts to reduce this carbon footprint.
Cumbria and its partners across the North West are set to play a leading role in the UK’s clean energy transition, as outlined in the newly released North West Clean Power Report.
The report highlights a transformational opportunity for the region’s seven million residents. It forecasts billions of pounds in investment and the creation of 35,000 new clean energy jobs by 2028, driven by national energy policy and regional coordination.
With its rich industrial heritage and ambitious plans for a net zero future, the North West is poised to become a global leader in clean energy innovation and industrial decarbonisation - attracting new businesses, unlocking investment, and boosting long-term economic growth.
The report also looks ahead to Great British Energy’s forthcoming Local Power Plan, which is expected to give local authorities and communities a more active role in owning and operating renewable energy schemes.
It recommends that local government should enable 1 GW of community-owned renewable energy capacity by 2030 - enough to power approximately 750,000 homes - delivering benefits such as energy resilience, community wealth building, and lower bills.
By working together, the North West can deliver economic security, clean growth, and improved public health outcomes for communities across the region.
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We were delighted to receive a ‘Hero’ award from The Rebuild Site CIC last week, in recognition of the support the council has provided to their organisation. The award was presented to Cllr Anne Glendinning, who sits on the Carlisle West Community Panel.
The panel contributed funding to help Rebuild improve their new building, which is now located at Unit A, Heathlands Industrial Estate, Carlisle, CA6 4RP.
Image shows the award won by Cumberland Council at the Hero awards
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 We have approved funding to advance the Iron Line project in Millom, marking a major milestone for one of the Millom Town Deal’s flagship regeneration schemes.
At its executive meeting on 11 September in Whitehaven, councillors agreed to award the £7.1 million (plus VAT) stage two construction contract to Story Construction, subject to call-in, planning approval, and lease agreements for the proposed visitor centre.
If approved, work is expected to start later this year, timed to align with environmental and funding milestones. The project will transform the Hodbarrow Reserve and former railway line into a 7.5km accessible walking and cycling route, enriched with public art, cultural features, and a community-led visitor centre with a café, learning space, and volunteer facilities.
The Iron Line aims to celebrate Millom and Haverigg’s heritage, landscape, and community spirit, enhancing wellbeing, boosting tourism, and creating a lasting legacy for residents and visitors alike.
For more information and updates, please visit: www.millomtowndeal.org.uk
Image shows a CGI mock up of The Iron Line in Millom
We had a brilliant time at Harraby, Longtown, Whitehaven and Workington libraries celebrating Green Libraries Week with our Waste Management team
The sessions promoted the 2025 Schools Baa-ttery Recycling competition, which raises awareness about safe battery disposal and encouraging eco-friendly habits among children and families. There are also some fantastic prizes to be won by the schools recycling the most batteries per pupil.
From environmental-themed books to creative crafts, we loved decorating battery boxes and cups to use at home, plus we made pots for storing used batteries, looked at the creatures in home-made compost under a microscope and shared tips on reducing pumpkin waste.
Thanks to everyone who joined us and helped make sustainability fun and inspiring!
Image shows Barbara Herridge and Hayley Slack with some of the children at Green Libraries week
County Wildlife Sites – also known as Local Wildlife Sites – are essential for helping nature flourish across Cumbria. Acting as corridors and stepping stones for wildlife, they connect well-known reserves and protected areas, creating a rich mosaic of habitats. These sites range from woodlands and hay meadows to churchyards, moorlands, lakes, riverbanks, and roadside verges, and are managed by a variety of landowners including individuals, charities, and public bodies.
The Cumbria County Wildlife Sites Project is a partnership between Cumberland Council, Cumbria Biodiversity Data Centre, Cumbria Wildlife Trust, Natural England, and other key organisations. Specialist field officers survey habitats and species across the county, with findings reviewed by an expert panel of ecologists and botanists.
Over the past 18 months, more than 100 sites have been assessed. Highlights include St Oswald’s Churchyard, where historic ruins and shaded corners provide thriving habitats for lichens, mosses, and ferns—showcasing how spaces can support both people and nature.
Image shows St Oswald's Churchyard
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Nuclear Waste Services (NWS) began Aerial Surveys in October 2023 to understand the presence and number of birds and marine animals off the West Cumbrian coast. These surveys have provided valuable information that supports understanding of the local environment and help to inform the permissions required for future investigations into the area’s suitability for a Geological Disposal Facility (GDF).
With the final Aerial Survey scheduled for September 2025, NWS is now moving to ground-based Wintering Bird Surveys to complement this data and gain a deeper understanding of bird movements along the coast between Sellafield and Haverigg.
These surveys will help identify potential environmental effects and inform any mitigations to manage them. The findings will form a key part of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which is required to accompany applications for Developmental Consent Order and Environmental Permit permissions.
Image shows a bird in the sea along the West Cumbrian Coast
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Cumbria will have a new Mayor-led strategic authority, unlocking substantial additional powers and funding to drive economic regeneration across the county.
At meetings on Tuesday 14 October, both Cumberland and Westmorland and Furness Councils gave their final consent to the Government’s devolution proposals, paving the way for a new era of locally based decision making and opportunity.
The new authority will have a range of powers and funding not available to the two existing councils, including access to a Cumbrian Mayoral Investment Fund of £333 million over the next 30 years.
Key strategic tools and resources that will become available to Cumbria Combined Authority for environment and climate change include a duty to support delivery of the forthcoming Local Nature Recovery Strategy, as well as a potential convening role in relation to net zero planning and energy.
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The Solway Coast National Landscape were delighted to fund an archaeological excavation project at Drumburgh through their Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme. The three-week dig took place in October 2025, uncovering a remarkably intact section of Hadrian’s Wall.
Grampus Heritage and Training, who carried out the excavation, stated that “Wall like this has not been seen here in our lifetime". The remarkable discovery helped to answer many of the mysteries surrounding the arrangement of Hadrian’s Wall in this area, the fort of Congavata and Milecastle 76 at Drumburgh. During the excavation period this section became the only visible part of the wall to the west of Carlisle, drawing a crowd of over 250 people at the open day.
Funding is still available through our FiPL programme, please contact our farming officer at farming@solwaycoastaonb.org.uk to find out more.
Image shows a group of people digging at Drumburgh
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 On Monday 29 September the West Cumbria ‘In Place’ launch of the JUST Centre took place at the Oval Centre in Workington.
The JUST Centre is a new 5-year research consortium between the universities of Manchester, Lancaster, Newcastle, Leeds and Liverpool, funded by the Economic and Social Research Council and partnered with The Young Foundation. The purpose of the Centre is to identify ‘what works, where, why, and for whom’ for accelerating an equitable transition to low-carbon living.
The work of the JUST Centre focuses on five regions in the North of England: West Cumbria, Tyneside, Greater Manchester, Merseyside and West Yorkshire. Lancaster University will lead the work in West Cumbria. The work will involve using mixed methods to understand how and why different initiatives for transitioning to low-carbon living are successful and what lessons they may hold for the wider region and the UK.
The workshop provided an introduction to the JUST Centre and the West Cumbria Team and an opportunity for colleagues to comment and share information about the work and initiatives that are helping to reduce carbon emissions and move towards a less carbon-intensive lifestyle as well as discussing what we felt were some of the main challenges ahead.
Image shows a group of people at the event listening to a presentation
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