World Heritage Site Inscription: Consultation on Potential Social and Economic Benefits for Cumbria – Rural Regeneration Cumbria

As part of the ongoing work surrounding the nomination process for Lake District World Heritage Site (WHS) Inscription, ERS was commissioned by Rural Regeneration Cumbria on behalf of a Technical Advisory Group 2 (TAG 2) to undertake an examination of the social and economic impacts of WHS inscription and to closely tie in the findings with the development of the Lake District National Park’s new management plan and visioning exercise.


The study had three distinct components:

• The collation of evidence of interesting and relevant experience where WHS inscription has brought economic benefit and where workable solutions have been arrived at to ensure that inscription has promoted growth and development rather than restrain it;

• Consultation with businesses (public, private and not-for-profit sectors) in Cumbria to draw together a set of actions/policy statements/other interventions that those businesses would like to see as part of WHS inscription; and

• Consultation with interest groups (public, private and not-for-profit sectors) in Cumbria to draw together a set of actions/policy statements/other interventions that those interest groups would like to see as part of WHS inscription.


For this study, ERS consulted a wide range of key stakeholders and businesses, compiled case study evidence from other World Heritage Sites, and assessed the strategic fit of key policies and priorities that influence Cumbria and the Lake District including tourism, education, community, funding and investment, partnership development and sustainable transport.

ERS Contact: aparkinson@ers.org.uk