Roaches Gateway: South West Peak

Roaches Gateway

Project summary

The iconic Roaches offers stunning views of the South West Peak and beyond; with a clear day showing views of Snowdonia, Liverpool Cathedral and Cannock Chase. This heavily visited area is protected because of its upland moor and blanket bog habitats and the many different species that rely on these fragile ecosystems for survival.

Pressure from the popularity of the Roaches and weather erosion, along with recent wildfires, has put these habitats in jeopardy. Roaches Gateway has been working to improve the infrastructure in this beautiful and important natural area. Scars and deep cuts from use and erosion are marring the landscape and allowing blanket bogs to dry out by draining water away far too rapidly.

Importantly, these deep cuts make walking difficult for visitors and results in short-cuts into the surrounding habitats.

Through the use of skilled contractors and volunteers over 1,000 metres of key footpaths are being restored. Additionally, 800 metres of drystone walls are being repaired in order to save these important cultural landmarks and preserve the beautiful vistas.

Repairing 1,000 metres of the most popular footpaths around the Roaches
Training local volunteers in stone footpath construction and drystone wall repair
Restoring 800 metres of drystone walls
Providing on-site and off-site interpretation about the value of the Roaches landscape
Improving infrastructure at 3 popular entrances

How to help the Roaches

See a map of work being done on the Roaches trail system.
Make sure you stay on designated footpaths. Even if they are muddy its best to keep foot traffic isolated to one area rather than widening the trail even more.
When out enjoying the Roaches with your canine companion remember to Leave No Trace and pack out what you pack in.
The Roaches is an isolated location. Remember to be prepared and bring drinking water and a snack when out and about.

Volunteer

Visit http://www.staffs-wildlife.org.uk/reserves/the-roaches

Learn More About the Roaches

Visit Site

Join the Roaches Peregrine watch each spring for a chance to see breeding peregrine falcons with the Wildlife Trust staff and volunteers.

Make sure you stay on designated footpaths. They might be muddy but by avoiding the mud the path is widened and that means less moorland for us all to enjoy.

Respect the needs of local people and visitors alike – for example, don’t block roads, gateways or other paths with your vehicle.

United Utilities hosts event for Cheshire farmers on sustainable rush control

2022 South West Peak calendar now available

Over the last five years the Partnership, local communities and our volunteers have been working tirelessly to record and protect some of the most distinctive and important features of the South West Peak landscape. Now you can hang them on your wall!