This is an archived website, available until June 2027. We hope it will inspire people to continue to care for and protect the South West Peak area and other landscapes. Although the South West Peak Landscape Partnership ended in June 2022, the area is within the Peak District National Park. Enquiries can be made to customer.service@peakdistrict.gov.uk
The 5-year South West Peak Landscape Partnership, 2017-2022, was funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Roaches Gateway
Project runs
- From: Jan 2017
- To: Feb 2022
Roaches Gateway
Project summary
The iconic Roaches offers stunning views of the South West Peak and beyond; and on a clear day gives views to Snowdonia, Liverpool Cathedral and Cannock Chase. This heavily visited area is protected because of its upland moor and blanket bog habitats and the many different species that rely on these fragile ecosystems for survival.
Pressure from the popularity of the Roaches and weather erosion, along with recent wildfires, puts these habitats in jeopardy. Roaches Gateway worked to improve the infrastructure in this beautiful and important natural area. Scars and deep cuts from use and erosion were marring the landscape and allowing blanket bogs to dry out by draining water away far too rapidly.
Importantly, these deep cuts made walking difficult for visitors and resulted in short-cuts into the surrounding habitats.
Through the use of skilled contractors and volunteers key footpaths have been restored through the Roaches Gateway project, and drystone walls have been repaired to save these important cultural landmarks.
What we did
- Repaired 1,800 metres of the most popular footpaths around the Roaches
- Trained local volunteers in stone footpath construction and drystone wall repair
- Restored 926 metres of drystone walls
- Installed 11 new pedestrian gates to improve access
- Improved public information with 2 new panels installed
How to continue to help protect the Roaches
- Stay on designated footpaths. Even if they are muddy its best to keep foot traffic on one area rather than widening trails even more.
- If you're enjoying the Roaches with your dog, please Leave No Trace and remove your dog's poo.
- The Roaches is an isolated location. Bring drinking water and a snack with you when walking. Please take your litter home.
- Follow the Countryside Code.
More
Make sure you stay on designated footpaths. They might be muddy but by avoiding the mud the path is widened and that means less moorland for us all to enjoy.
Respect the needs of local people and visitors alike – for example, don’t block roads, gateways or other paths with your vehicle.
Related articles
2022 South West Peak calendar now available
Over the last five years the Partnership, local communities and our volunteers have been working tirelessly to record and protect some of the most distinctive and important features of the South West Peak landscape. Now you can hang them on your wall!
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Tarmac donation in National Parks Week to help improve access for all at beauty spot
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