The restoration of Ilkley Moor by Bradford Council has received recognition for making the iconic landscape better suited for benefiting nature, the climate and people.

In the Yorkshire Post the landowner and its moorland management partners have been congratulated on the progress made to conserve rare heathlands, restore carbon-rich peatlands and maintain a well-loved space for visitors.

Speaking to the Yorkshire Post the Friends of Ilkley Moor said: “Although commonplace in northern England, heather moorlands of the type found on the moor are internationally rare. It is not only the vegetation of the moor that is important but also the bird species, particularly upland waders, which use the moor to nest and raise their young.

“Conservation of these valued features is not usually about ‘leaving them alone.’ It involves active management to either maintain or improve them.”

Ilkley Moor is officially recognised as a special place. The moor is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest by Natural England as well as forming part of the South Pennine Moors Special Protection area for its bird habitats.

Bradford Council embarked on its restoration initiative following ending grouse shooting on the moor in 2018.