Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is about to launch a two-year project to further our understanding of historic farm buildings in the area.

The project will involve recording around 1000 traditional farm buildings in the AONB through basic survey work and mapping. It is hoped that the information gathered will help us to better understand changes in farming practice over the centuries, and the contribution these farm buildings make to Nidderdale’s landscape and history. The information could also inform the targeting of any future grant funding, and help to manage future change.

A number of traditional farm buildings have already been recorded, through individual survey projects, by local history groups and other organisations. The aim of this new project is to fill in the gaps and document the entire collection of traditional farm buildings in the AONB over the next two years.

AONB Heritage Officer, Sally Childes, said: “Previous research carried out in the area suggests that there are many more fascinating, and unrecorded, farm buildings in the area. This project will provide an opportunity build up an even greater knowledge of the history of farming in Nidderdale.”

We are very keen to hear from anyone who would like to get involved with this fascinating project and no prior experience of surveying buildings, or knowledge of farming methods is required. Historic Building Consultant Jen Deadman, who has a wealth of experience surveying farm buildings, will lead on the project and will provide full training and ongoing support.

If you an owner or tenant of traditional farm buildings, or are simply interested in becoming a volunteer, please come along to one of our open evenings on Monday 7th March or Monday 4th April to find out more about the project and how you can get involved. The meetings will take place at The Council Chamber, The Old Workhouse, Pateley Bridge, from 6.30pm-7.30pm