The decision was made by the HLF North East Committee on Thursday 8 September who agreed to fund the Partnership with £1.9million over the next five years.

Ivor Crowther, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund North East, said: “The landscapes of the North East are what give our region its unique character and this part of Teesdale, rich in culture, history and heritage, is no exception.

For centuries it inspired artists, authors and visitors and its stunning countryside remains a haven of national importance for wildlife and plants. Our confirmed grant will put the people that call this beautiful part of the world home at the very heart of a partnership letting them take the lead in taking care of, and gaining a better appreciation of this unique part of the world.

The HLF investment will forge practical co-operation between individuals, public and community groups allowing them to better meet the heritage and conservation needs of all aspects of this beautiful place in a co-ordinated and practical way.”

Deborah Jenkins, chairman of Barnard Castle Vision, the regeneration initiative which provided the staff and resources to submit the original Stage 1 application, said: “I am absolutely delighted that all of us involved in the Partnership will now have the opportunity to work with so many local groups to carry out projects which will preserve and enhance our beautiful landscape. This is the culmination of years of work, and the start of many fascinating journeys.”

The initiative has also been strongly supported by Durham County Council which is providing additional funds. Cllr Neil Foster, cabinet member for regeneration and economic development said: “This is great news for the Partnership and the communities involved.”

William Weston, chairman of the partnership’s steering group, said: “HLF's decision to fund the implementation of our bid is recognition of the special qualities of our Teesdale landscape that artists such as Turner and Cotman captured in times gone by. I hope that through the work of the Partnership we will not only conserve the distinctive nature of the Teesdale landscape, but deepen interest and appreciation amongst local communities of its fascinating heritage, and raise awareness of our region amongst friends and visitors as a destination without equal.”

The Partnership will be starting its work as soon as possible, with a launch later in the autumn. The scheme includes over 50 projects across the area, many of which have been proposed by local community groups. A programme of events is now in preparation to help projects get underway and ensure that the Partnership reaches its full potential.

Notes to editors

HLF’s Landscape Partnerships are helping bring together members of the community as well as local, regional, and national organisations to deliver schemes which benefit some of the UK’s most outstanding landscapes and rural communities. Grants range from £250,000 up to £2m.  

The Heart of Teesdale Landscape Partnership is supported by Barnard Castle Vision, Durham County Council and the National Lottery through the Heritage Lottery Fund.
It comprises a wide range of interests including public, private and community sectors, as well as individuals bringing specialist expertise.

The Partnership aims to highlight the unique character of the area and revive understanding and appreciation of the historic landscape to inspire residents, visitors, artists and others, both today and in the future.

It is intended as a five year project, primarily funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, which incorporates four separate landscape programmes: conserving and restoring, increasing community participation, access and learning, and training and skills.

The Partnership covers Barnard Castle and parishes within an area bounded by Eggleston, Gainford, Barningham and Bowes.

Further information

The Partnership team is based at Teesdale House, Galgate, Barnard Castle, County Durham, DL12 8EL or contact the staff via info@heartofteesdale.net.