MP backs campaign to make Stickle Tarn a 'community asset'

The Langdale Valley Association have completed and handed in the required forms to begin the process of registering Stickle Tarn as a community asset. They have been backed by local councillor Heidi Halliday and South Lakes MP Tim Farron.

Stickle Tarn is widely regarded as one of the Lake District's best known beauty spots is one of seven areas being sold off by national park bosses. The Tarn, in the Langdale Pikes, is on the market with a guide price of between £20,000 and £30,000.

Part 5 Chapter 3 of the Localism Act 2011 provides for a scheme called 'assets of community value'. This requires district and unitary councils to maintain a list of 'community assets'. It has also become known as the 'community right to bid'. Community assets can be nominated by parish councils or by groups with a connection with the community. If the nomination is accepted, local groups will be given time to come up with a bid for the asset when it is sold.

If successful this will give campaigners 6 months to prepare a bid to buy it before the asset can be sold. Currently the sale will be by tender with a closing date of 12 March.

Tim said: "This campaign is really gathering momentum and I want to pay tribute to Langdale Valley Association for their perseverance. I stand ready to help and support them in any way I can. The area is much loved I am keen to do what I can to help local organisations buy it and keep it for all to enjoy."

Lakes County Councillor Heidi Halliday added: "I fully support a community bid. Local community groups should have the opportunity to be custodians of this very special place."