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Skipton MP discusses rural issues during Bolton Abbey visit

Sunday, 21 September 2025 at 20:39

Bolton Abbey Estate Manager David Barrett talks to Sir Julian Smith MP (Image: Supplied)

Skipton MP Sir Julian Smith has visited the Bolton Abbey Estate to discuss key issues affecting land management, conservation and rural livelihoods.

Sir Julian received a tour and overview of Bolton Abbey's work with Estate Manager David Barrett when he visited last week (17th September).

Mr Barrett provided a detailed overview of the estate’s work and raised concerns about changes to regulations governing heather and grass burning, shooting, and licensing.

Speaking after the visit, Sir Julian Smith MP said:

“It was great to spend time at Bolton Abbey and learn more about the management of peatland across North Yorkshire in the years and decades ahead. Estates like Bolton Abbey have put so much effort and focus into caring for these moorlands. However, recent changes to regulations threaten their way of doing things and starts to put them back in the hands of bureaucrats in London.”

The visit comes amid growing debate around the Heather and Grass Burning (England) Regulations 2021.

The Moorland Association has called for a pause to amendments, citing flawed scientific evidence and risks to biodiversity and wildfire prevention.

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