SHOOTING SCHOOL PROPOSAL THREATENS PEAK DISTRICT TRANQUILITY SAYS COUNTRYSIDE GROUP

National Park Society Friends of the Peak District (FPD ) is opposing plans for a new clay-pigeon shooting school at Magclough Farm near Grindleford in the Hope Valley, because the proposed level and frequency of shooting would have an unacceptable impact on the peace and tranquility of the surrounding area.

Friends of the Peak District has supported other shooting activities within the National Park and, whilst hearing gun fire is a common experience in rural areas especially during the shooting season, this proposal would result in significantly more intensive gun fire throughout the year, explains John King, FPD Planning Officer. This application directly contravenes the statutory National Park purpose to ensure the quiet enjoyment of the landscape for the public. It would compromise the valued tranquility of the area and we urge the Park Authority to refuse these proposals.

The Friends are not convinced that natural shielding from surrounding hills and trees would reduce the noise to an acceptable level within the surrounding area. Of particular concern is the impact of the noise on Grindleford residents and walkers on Froggatt Edge as the sound is likely to resonate down Magclough and across the Derwent Valley.

Another concern is the impact on the landscape that two 90 feet towers and one 60 foot, clay-firing towers would have as they would be visible across the Derwent Valley. Considering the secluded nature of the site, FPD believes that these structures will have a detrimental impact on the isolated character of the area.

The scheme is expected to be considered by the National Park Authority’s Planning Committee at its meeting on 15th February.