Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal - World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015-2021 - National Trust
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Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015—2021
Contents Foreword
Introduction
4
7
Vision 9
Chapter 1 World Heritage Site status and Statement 11
of Outstanding Universal Value
Chapter 2 Managing the World Heritage Site 19
Chapter 3 Current issues affecting the World Heritage Site 23
Chapter 4 Themes, objectives and actions 29
Chapter 5 Action plan 54
Chapter 6 Implementation and monitoring 63
Maps
Map 1 World Heritage Site boundary 64
Map 2 Buffer zone 65
Appendices
Appendix 1 Facts and figures about the World Heritage Site 69
Appendix 2 A short history of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal 70
Appendix 3 Planning and policy framework for the World Heritage Site 73
Appendix 4 List of World Heritage Site stakeholders 77
Appendix 5 Outcomes of public consultation 79
Appendix 6 Evaluation of delivery of objectives and actions 96
in WHS Management Plan 2009-2014
Appendix 7 English Heritage and National Trust Conservation Principles 101
Appendix 8 Conservation Action Plan 2015-2021 102
Appendix 9 Geodiversity Audit 127
Appendix 10 Landscape Character Assessments 135
Contents World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 3
Foreword
It is an honour and a privilege to be asked His son William inherited in 1742 when Long-term planning and evaluation of
to write the foreword to the Studley Royal the garden was complete and was another the management plan is key to the future
and Fountains Abbey World Heritage Site visionary, continuing the work started by of this and every World Heritage Site,
Management Plan. The development of his father. He extended the garden further and partnership is the crucial element
the City of Ripon and Fountains Abbey north down the Skell valley, and bought in that plan. Without partners no single
share the common inheritance left by John the Fountains estate in 1767 to ensure the organisation can bring the necessary
and William Aislabie. Both were members backdrop of the ruined abbey became part expertise and experience into play to
of parliament for Ripon, sitting between of the water garden. He ‘improved’ the ensure the sustainability of a World
them for a total of more than 60 years ruins and created more vistas across the Heritage Site. The National Trust at
throughout much of the 18th century. estate, and connected his ‘natural’ garden Fountains has worked in partnership
John had Nicholas Hawksmoor erect the at Hackfall a few miles away with a carriage over a number of years especially with
country’s tallest freestanding obelisk in drive to Studley Royal. The combined English Heritage and Natural England,
Ripon Market Place in 1702 and he began estate remained in private hands until 1966 and has realised the importance of
the water garden in 1716. Better known as when purchased by West Riding County connecting across cultural and natural
Fountains Abbey, the World Heritage Site Council and has been managed by the heritage interests. Better understanding
Written by Mick Stanley, is inscribed as a masterpiece of human National Trust since 1983 and designated of those links adds significantly to the
Right Worshipful Mayor of Ripon genius and an outstanding designed a World Heritage Site in 1986. way that heritage is conserved, presented
landscape. The genius was John Aislabie and promoted to the public as a World
who in the second decade of the 18th I first visited this special place in the early Heritage Site — “Your local place for
century had the vision to transform the 1990s, and since moving to Ripon in 2000 everyone in the world”.
deep post-glacial valley of the River Skell have been a regular walker down the
into the superb water gardens that we Spanish chestnut lined avenue back to
see today. Ripon, one of the best walks in Yorkshire.
The natural setting, the underlying geology
and the ‘S’ shaped topography of the Skell
valley were critical in the development
of the water garden, helping to describe
where the ponds, canals and follies were
located and providing vistas at every
turn in the valley.
4 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Foreword
The Moon Pond and the Temple of Piety
Foreword World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 5
The Surprise View of the abbey
from the water garden
6 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Introduction
Introduction
About the World The name of the site on the World
Heritage List is ‘Studley Royal Park
importance in their own right, being
one of the few Cistercian houses to
Some enjoy the peace and tranquillity
of the site, while others are inspired by
Heritage Site including the ruins of Fountains Abbey’, survive from the 12th century. There its history or wish to enjoy its rich diversity
rather than the name the site is usually are also Fountains Hall, St Mary’s Church, of wildlife. Managing the site as a popular
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal World known by, ‘Fountains Abbey and Studley Fountains Mill and the deer park. Together visitor attraction whilst still protecting
Heritage Site is special for its spectacular Royal’. The site was inscribed as a WHS these buildings and landscapes combine and enhancing the WHS is a complex
18th century landscape and water garden, by UNESCO as ‘a masterpiece of human to make a harmonious whole which and challenging task.
integrating the ruins of Fountains Abbey. creative genius’ which is one of the ten UNESCO considers to be ‘an outstanding
It was inscribed as a World Heritage Site WHS selection criteria. Studley Royal is example of a type of building, architectural
(WHS) in 1986 as ‘Studley Royal Park considered an outstanding example of the or technological ensemble which illustrates Further information about
including the ruins of Fountains Abbey’. ‘English’ garden style. The early parts of significant stages in human history’, the site is included in:
The site is 822 acres (333 hectares), lies a the garden created by John Aislabie from another of the ten WHS criteria.
few miles west of the city of Ripon in North 1718 are influenced by earlier formal French Appendix 1 — Facts and figures about
Yorkshire and sits within the Borough of and Dutch geometric designs though The National Trust has owned the estate the World Heritage Site
Harrogate and the Nidderdale Area of moving in a more naturalistic, English, since 1983 and manages the WHS in
Outstanding Natural Beauty. direction. Instead of imposing a design partnership with Historic England and the Appendix 2 — A short history of
upon nature, this style worked in harmony English Heritage Trust. The National Trust Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal
The 18th century water garden, with it. Later in the 18th century this has around 68 regular staff, 20 seasonal
incorporating some of the largest staff and over 400 volunteers that work Map 1 — World Heritage Site
move towards a more natural approach
Cistercian abbey ruins in Europe, shares progressed further. William Aislabie, John’s in a range of roles at Fountains Abbey
the landscape with a deer park, Jacobean son, further developed the garden while and Studley Royal.
mansion and a magnificent Victorian maintaining much of his father’s earlier
church designed by William Burges. Today the WHS welcomes approximately
designs at its core. Studley Royal therefore 350,000 visitors every year from the local
To be inscribed as a WHS, a place must demonstrates the evolving garden tastes area and further afield. It is one of the
not only demonstrate ‘outstanding of the 18th century in one landscape. most visited places owned by the National
universal value’, it must also fit at least There are other significant buildings and Trust and one of the most popular tourism
one of ten criteria established by the landscapes on the site which contribute attractions in Yorkshire. There are many
United Nations Educational, Scientific towards the WHS status. The abbey ruins reasons why people choose to visit
and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). are not only a key eye-catcher in the 18th Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal.
century garden but also of international
Introduction World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 7
Map 1 Location in North Yorkshire About the plan The WHS Management Plan for Fountains
Abbey and Studley Royal was first
and Landscape Setting
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal
WHS Management Plan
This is the management plan for the published in 2001. This plan is the second
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal review and will run for six years from 2015
World Heritage Site. It is a plan for to 2021. It builds upon the objectives
all those with an interest in, and and actions in the earlier plans. The
responsibility for, managing the WHS. plan also includes the new Statement
COUNTY OF The UNESCO Operational Guidelines for of Outstanding Universal Value (SOUV)
the Implementation of the World Heritage defining the site’s significance which was
NORTH YORKSHIRE Convention state that ‘each nominated approved by the UNESCO World Heritage
property should have an appropriate Committee in 2012. The successful delivery
of the plan relies on all partners working
A1(M)
management plan or other documented
NEWCASTLE
DURHAM
management system which must specify together to achieve the management
CUMBRIA DURHAM how the outstanding universal value objectives and actions.
Darlington Middlesbrough
(OUV) of a property should be preserved,
preferably through participatory means’.
Whitby
Richmond UK Government policy aims to ensure
A6270
Northallerton
A19
a management plan is in place for all
A6108 A170
Scarborough UK WHSs.
Hawes Leyburn A1(M)
The main purpose of the plan is therefore
Helmsley Pickering
Thirsk
Kendal
Masham
Ripon
to sustain the OUV of the WHS to ensure
it can be passed on for future generations
Pateley A19
Bridge Malton
to enjoy. The plan:
A65
Studley Royal Park &
B6265
Ruins of Fountains Abbey
B6160 A61 A64
A59
A59
— sets out what is special about Fountains
Skipton Harrogate
EAST Abbey and Studley Royal WHS, including
YORK
YORKSHIRE a full description of the OUV of the site
A19
A658
LANCASHIRE A627
A61 A64
— identifies key issues affecting the WHS
LEEDS
Bradford
M62 A1(M)
Selby — sets out a long-term vision, objectives
and action plan for the WHS to ensure
WEST
M1
the maintenance of its OUV for present
YORKSHIRE A1(M)
NOTTINGHAM and future generations
Yorkshire Dales National Park
Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Pennine Dale Fringe
Southern Magnesian Limestone
District/Unity Authority Boundary
August 2009
8 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Introduction
Vision for the The abbey cellarium
Our vision, is to build on this work
World Heritage Site and to ensure the WHS will be:
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal World — conserved and enhanced for future
Heritage Site is a special place, loved for generations to enjoy, the genius
generations. It is a place of calm reflection, of the place will be captured and
of delight and exploration, for those who celebrated through delivery of our
come to discover it now and in the future. conservation work
Taking the 18th century pleasure gardens
as its core and inspiration, the WHS — a place which is accessible to all,
possesses many layers of an extraordinary brought to life for everyone to
history that have shaped the abbey, the understand and enjoy
parkland, the rural setting and extended
— a place cherished by the local
further afield to other landscapes.
community and wider communities
The designed landscape was inscribed of interest and an iconic symbol
as a WHS in 1986 and since that time of Yorkshire
the National Trust and its partners have
— a place where sustainable
undertaken an ambitious programme of
management sits at the heart
conservation work to restore the gardens
of all we do
to their former splendour, ensuring the
outstanding universal value (OUV) of the — an exemplary WHS which aims
WHS is sustained for future generations to make a significant contribution
to enjoy. At the same time, facilities for to the purposes and functions
visitors such as the Visitor Centre and of UNESCO
Porter’s Lodge interpretation centre have
been developed as part of our mission
to present and communicate the OUV
of the site to as many people as possible.
Introduction World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 9
The Cascade, Studley Lake and the Tabernacles, by Balthazar Nebot, 1750s 10 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Chapter 1
Chapter 1: World Heritage
Site status and Statement of
Outstanding Universal Value
This chapter sets out what There are currently 1031 World Heritage
is special about the Fountains Sites spread across 163 countries (in
August 2015) reflecting the rich diversity
Abbey and Studley Royal of the world’s cultural and natural heritage.
World Heritage Site. Their position on the World Heritage List
ensures that they will remain a part of our
global heritage for generations to come. It
1.1 What is a World is important to ensure that World Heritage
Heritage Site? Sites contribute toward UNESCO’s overall
goals of peace, security and sustainable
World Heritage Sites are prime examples of development.
the world’s greatest cultural and/or natural
sites. They provide an irreplaceable source ‘World Heritage is a building block for
of inspiration to everyone, irrespective peace and sustainable development. It is
of where they are located. It is, therefore, a source of identity and dignity for local
vitally important to protect them for communities, a wellspring of knowledge
future generations. World Heritage Sites and strength to be shared.’ Irina Bokava,
have a cultural or natural significance that the Director-General of UNESCO
‘is so exceptional as to transcend national This plan contributes to UNESCO purposes
boundaries and of importance for present through its learning programme and
and future generations of all humanity.’ sharing of good practice on conservation
This concept, referred to as outstanding management, its engagement with local
universal value, is set out in the World communities and other wider communities
Heritage Convention of 1972. of interest and its efforts to promote
sustainable management.
St Mary’s Church in the
Studley Royal Deer Park
Chapter 1 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 111.2 Statement Studley Royal Park including the of the few Cistercian houses to survive
from the 12th century and providing an
Fountains Abbey ruins: a key element
in the garden scheme, providing the
Ruins of Fountains Abbey, United
of Outstanding Kingdom of Great Britain and
unrivalled picture of a great religious house spectacular culmination to the principal
in all its parts. The remainder of the estate vista, but also of outstanding importance
Universal Value Northern Ireland is no less significant. At the west end of in their own right. It is one of the few
the estate is the transitional Elizabethan/ Cistercian houses surviving from the 12th
All World Heritage Sites have a Brief Synthesis
Jacobean Fountains Hall, partially built century and provides an unrivalled picture
Statement of Outstanding Universal
Situated in North Yorkshire, the 18th from reclaimed abbey stone and with its of a great religious house in all its parts.
Value (SOUV) which sets out the
century designed landscape of Studley distinctive façade, it is an outstanding Fountains Abbey, founded in 1132, soon
significance of the site, its integrity
Royal water garden and pleasure grounds, example of its period. Located in the became one of the largest and richest
and authenticity and measures for
including the ruins of Fountains Abbey, extensive deer park is St Mary’s Church, Cistercian abbeys in Britain, before being
its management and protection.
is one harmonious whole of buildings, a masterpiece of High Victorian Gothic closed by Henry VIII in 1539 during the
The SOUV will guide the management
gardens and landscapes. This landscape architecture, designed by William Burges in Dissolution of the Monasteries. It was
of the site for the foreseeable future.
of exceptional merit and beauty represents 1871 and considered to be one of his finest partially demolished soon after.
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal’s
over 800 years of human ambition, design works.
SOUV was approved by the World Jacobean Fountains Hall: an outstanding
Heritage Committee in 2012 and can and achievement.
Key Components example of a building of its period and
only be altered with their approval. Studley Royal is one of the few great 18th partially built with stone from the Abbey.
There have already been some changes Studley Royal Park, including the ruins It has a distinctive Elizabethan façade
century gardens to survive substantially
to the planning and management of Fountains Abbey, combines into one and is enhanced by a formal garden with
in its original form and is one of the most
framework described in the SOUV harmonious whole buildings, gardens and shaped hedges. The interior of the Hall
spectacular water gardens in England.
and the amendments follow the landscapes constructed over a period has been adapted for successive uses,
The landscape garden is an outstanding
Statement below. In addition to the of 800 years. All, important in their including a courthouse.
example of the development of the
outstanding universal value there are own right, have been integrated into a
‘English’ garden style throughout the
a whole range of national, regional continuous landscape of exceptional merit St. Mary’s Church: an outstanding
18th century, which influenced the rest of
and local values which will inform and beauty. Its principal components are: example of High Victorian Gothic
Europe. With the integration of the River
how the site is managed. These are architecture by one of its leading
Skell into the water gardens and the use Studley Royal: one of the few great
set out in Section 1.4. exponents, William Burges, in 1871, and
of ‘borrowed’ vistas from the surrounding 18th century ‘green gardens’ to survive considered to be one of his finest works.
countryside, the design and layout of the substantially in its original form, arguably A building of importance in its own right,
gardens is determined by the form of the most spectacular water garden in it has also been successfully integrated
the natural landscape, rather than being England. The landscape garden is an into the landscape of the Park. The church
The Surprise View, by A Walker imposed upon it. The garden contains outstanding example of the development is one of a pair: its twin is Christ the
after Balthazar Nebot, 1758 canals, ponds, cascades, lawns and hedges, of the ‘English’ garden style throughout Consoler at Skelton-on-Ure. They were
with elegant garden buildings, gateways the 18th century, which influenced the rest both designed by Burges and built using
and statues. The Aislabies’ vision survives of Europe. The garden contains canals the same craftsmen.
substantially in its original form, most and ponds, cascades, lawns and hedges,
famously in the spectacular view of the with elegant temples and statues used as
ruins of Fountains Abbey itself. eye-catchers. The layout of the gardens
is determined by the form of the natural
The abbey is not only a key eye-catcher in
landscape, rather than a design that is
the garden scheme but is of outstanding
imposed upon it. The Aislabies’ design
importance in its own right, being one
survives substantially in its original form.
12 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Chapter 1Integrity Authenticity There have been numerous conservation
interventions since inscription which
The Studley Royal Park was at its most The property as a whole has high were necessary to ensure the outstanding
extensive under the ownership of William authenticity in terms of form and design, universal value of the property was
Aislabie in the latter part of the 18th materials, function, location and setting of maintained. Conservation works in the
century. It is one of the few great 18th features of the great 18th century designed garden, to the many garden buildings and
century gardens to survive substantially landscape. However, in common with many to the Abbey and other buildings have
in its original form. The landscape design other cultural sites, particularly those that adhered to good conservation practice
has been little altered by subsequent develop in an organic way such as parks and have been thoroughly researched
owners, who mainly respected and only and gardens, both the fabric and design and documented. Fountains Hall, Porter’s
modestly enhanced the original designs by of the landscape at Studley Royal have Lodge and the Cistercian Water Mill have
their additions. However, many landscape been continually altered, first throughout been sensitively reused to enhance visitor
features disappeared and the maintained the period of inception (up to c. 1781) and enjoyment of the site. The water garden
part of the gardens contracted due to lack thereafter by a mixed process of maturity, has been affected by climatic events, such
of maintenance. A number of decaying modification, ageing and decline. Natural as flooding, and pragmatic modifications,
buildings and landscape features from the growth, impact of climatic events and such as the use of modern engineering
John Aislabie in the robes of the Chancellor late 18th century were also removed and development can have both positive and technology, has enabled conservation
parts of the estate were sold into different negative impacts on the landscape, as can of the water garden design.
ownerships. Despite the changes to the later design interventions and alterations
Criteria estate, the attributes which express the to its physical fabric.
outstanding universal value remain intact
Criterion (i): Studley Royal Park including and are still evident today. The integrity
the ruins of Fountains Abbey owes its and authenticity of the ruins of Fountains
originality and striking beauty to the fact Abbey is high as is that of St Mary’s Church
that a humanised landscape was created and Fountains Hall.
around the largest medieval ruins in the
United Kingdom. The use of these features, The World Heritage Site boundary
combined with the planning of the water largely follows the area in National Trust
garden itself, is a true masterpiece of ownership rather than the extent of the
human creative genius. historic estate. Therefore some important
elements of the designed landscape lie
Criterion (iv): Combining the remains of outside the World Heritage Site boundary
the richest (Cistercian) abbey in England, and may be vulnerable to change. The
the Jacobean Fountains Hall, and Burges’ proposed buffer zone, arising out of the
miniature neo-Gothic masterpiece of St Management Plan process, would protect
Mary’s, with the water gardens and deer the integrity of the wider historic estate.
park into one harmonious whole, Studley
Royal Park including the ruins of Fountains
Abbey illustrates the power of medieval
monasticism, and the taste and wealth
of the European upper classes in the
18th century. Fountains Hall
Chapter 1 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 13Protection and Management the World Heritage Site boundary, later There are a range of statutory and non- The World Heritage Site Management
Requirements (2012) land additions to the National Trust statutory designations on the property. Plan for Fountains Abbey and Studley
estate hold significant historical features Fifty four buildings and structures on Royal was reviewed in 2009. A wide
The UK Government protects World that had become isolated, including the the site have been listed under the Listed audience was involved in developing the
Heritage Sites in England in two ways. Swanley Grange part of the monastic Buildings and Conservation Areas Act plan. The key priorities set out in the plan
Firstly individual buildings, monuments, grange complex and How Hill, a scheduled 1990 as buildings of special architectural include the restoration of the garden and
gardens and landscapes are designated monument, which also contains one and historical interest. The abbey and its parkland, production of a Conservation
under the Planning (Listed Buildings and of John Aislabie’s earliest 18th century surrounds are a scheduled monument. Management Plan, protecting the setting
Conservation Areas) Act 1990 and the 1979 eye-catchers. The whole site is Grade 1 on the English of the World Heritage Site through a
Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Heritage Register of Parks and Gardens in buffer zone, water management and
Areas Act and secondly through the The estate is important for its recreational England. The majority of the site also lies adapting to climate change, promoting
UK spatial planning system under the values and has an unusually long history within the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding sustainable management, improving
provisions of the Town and Country of tourism, beginning in the 17th century. Natural Beauty (AONB). environmental performance, engaging
Planning Act 1990. Each year over 300,000 people come to people and partnership working. Delivery
the paying area and an estimated 150,000 Detailed protection of the site is also of the World Heritage Site Management
National guidance on protecting the people visit the deer park. Visitor income provided by Harrogate Borough Plan is monitored by a Steering Group
Historic Environment (Planning Policy generated on the estate is retained on Council’s Local Development Framework. which includes the National Trust, English
Statement 5) and World Heritage (Circular site and used for conservation and access A proposal arising out of the Management Heritage, Harrogate Borough Council
07/09) and accompanying explanatory projects. The National Trust monitors Plan is being progressed to create a and ICOMOS-UK. The Steering Group
guidance has been recently published the number of visitors who come to the buffer zone to protect the setting of the also coordinates an annual stakeholder
by Government. Policies to protect, estate and their physical impact on the World Heritage Site. The buffer zone event involving a wider range of partners,
promote, conserve and enhance World landscape to inform access arrangements was approved by the World Heritage including Natural England, Nidderdale
Heritage Sites, their settings and buffer and ensure the necessary protection of Committee in July 2012. Additional AONB, the Environment Agency, local
zones can be found in regional plans and the site. Although damage is considered non-statutory protection is afforded by community groups and neighbouring
in local authority plans and frameworks. to be relatively limited there are some the Nidderdale AONB Management Plan, landowners.
World Heritage status is a key material areas of concern including the presence of the Environment Agency’s Catchment
consideration when planning applications vehicles in the deer park, the intrusive car Flood Management Plans and Harrogate
are considered by the Local Planning park at Studley Lake, wear and tear on the Borough Council’s Sites of Importance
Authority. The Harrogate Borough Council footpaths and damage to the lawns (after for Nature Conservation designation.
Local Development Framework contains excessive rainfall) caused by walking on the
policies to protect the property. grass. The National Trust has developed Protection of the estate’s artefacts and
a Conservation for Access Toolkit chattels collection is currently provided
Since 1983, the Fountains Abbey and by various agencies. Other than the Trust,
which measures the impact of visitors
Studley Royal estate has been owned the main repositories are English Heritage
on the site and provides management
and managed by the National Trust in and North Yorkshire County Council.
recommendations to protect the site
partnership with English Heritage. English
in the future. The main visitor facilities,
Heritage is responsible for conservation
services and car parking are provided at
of the abbey under a guardianship
the Visitor Centre to protect the character
agreement. St Mary’s Church is owned
of the historic area from intrusive modern
by the State and managed by the
developments and to minimise the impact
National Trust under a local management
of cars on the historic landscape.
agreement. Whilst currently not within Visitor Centre
14 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Chapter 1The protection and management
requirements for the site have
1.3 Defining the attributes 1.4 Other values
changed since 2012. This has of the outstanding associated with the WHS
included considerable changes to
the UK planning system and policy universal value of the In addition to the outstanding universal
framework. The Harrogate Borough World Heritage Site value, there are a range of other values
Council planning position has changed which guide how the site is managed. The
as a result of the new planning The Statement of Outstanding Universal World Heritage Convention 1972 places
requirements. The current planning Value sets out a summary of the World value on both cultural and natural heritage
framework is set out in Appendix 3. Heritage Committee’s reasons why the and recognises the need to preserve
The Steering Group membership has site is of international importance. All the balance between the two. Although
also been widened since the SOUV World Heritage Sites have been asked inscribed on the World Heritage List as
was approved and now includes North to define the attributes of outstanding a cultural site, the natural environment
Yorkshire County Council, Historic universal value (OUV) to help with the (biodiversity and geodiversity) is an integral
England and the English Heritage Trust. management of the site. Attributes are part of the site. There are also important
aspects of a World Heritage Site which archaeological and historic sites not
are associated with, or express, its OUV. referred to in the SOUV. Finally, the site
Within the decision making process, they has enormous value as a tourist destination
should assist with the assessment of the and the social, cultural and economic
impact of any proposed change to the site values of the site are set out below.
The warming room in the abbey
or in its setting. It will be a priority over this
plan period to work with partners to define
the attributes of the OUV of the WHS.
1.4.1 Archaeological values The abbey has long been the subject of
antiquarian and archaeological research,
The surface beauty of Fountains
creating a false sense that its archaeology
Abbey and Studley Royal rests literally
has been fully investigated. In reality, the
and intellectually on an outstanding
majority of the monastic precinct, and
archaeological resource. This reflects
even extensive deposits in and around
periods of the past no longer very
the cloistral complex, remain intact and
visible in the landscape, commencing
largely unexplored. This is a vast resource,
with prehistoric remains dating back
integral to the international values of the
to the Neolithic period and including a
site, which might be investigated to add
significant (if elusive) Romano-British
more to our understanding of the life and
occupation. Place name evidence reflects
development of the abbey. The same can
a sophisticated use of the landscape in
be said of Studlei Magna, where an even
the early medieval period, before the
smaller proportion has been explored.
establishment of the abbey. After its
foundation, half of the present property
was owned by the monks, the rest an
independent, vanished, medieval village
— Studlei Magna — whose remains extend
A red deer next to Studley Lake
over some 330 acres. This is archaeology
of at least regional and often national value.
Chapter 1 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 15The archaeological potential of designed
landscapes is less overt than that of
In addition to these highlights in the
estate’s history there is a range of other
1.4.2 Natural The underlying Millstone Grit of the site
is overlain by Magnesian Limestone and
medieval abbeys or villages, but just as elements that have left significant environment values this sustains species-rich Magnesian
important. On sites such as Studley Royal, archaeological record, not least the Limestone grassland, especially around
it is probably even more important, as it domestic life of the lost Studley Hall Biodiversity the Banqueting House, which is now part
has the potential to tell the detailed story in the deer park, and the occupation of a lowland calcareous grassland UK BAP
of the designed landscape which is the and development of the Fountains The WHS contains a rich and varied priority habitat.
reason for the estate’s WHS inscription, estate between 1540 and 1767. ecology. Eight species of bat can be found
and therefore is of international value. at the site with at least three species Geodiversity
All gardens evolve over time, often creating Archaeological resources are all a) breeding and many roosts within the
unique, b) highly sensitive and vulnerable historic buildings and structures. The Within the Fountains Abbey and Studley
a far more significant archaeological record Royal estate there are 2 principal bedrock
than documentary one. This has been to ill-informed management and c) freshwater habitats of the river and ponds
an irreplaceable resource. It is crucial are UK BAP (Biodiversity Action Plan) types. The majority of the site is underlain
proven to be the case time and time again by Magnesian Limestone (Permian).
at Studley Royal over the past 25 years. to understand this resource as well as priority habitats and support a number of
possible to avoid inadvertent damage, species including the native white-clawed The southern and western part of the
The site’s archaeology has been quite site, including the abbey precinct and
well mapped, but the potential for further optimise what is learnt from unavoidable crayfish and great crested newt. The
interventions, and find means of site also supports a wide variety of birds Fountains Hall, is underlain by Millstone
discoveries or more detailed investigation Grit (Carboniferous). The whole site is
remains considerable. investigation that leave the resource including the spotted flycatcher, hawfinch
untouched. and lesser spotted woodpecker. overlain by a cover of Pleistocene gravel
and clay with associated late Pleistocene
The veteran trees of the deer park and landforms. The best exposures of Millstone
their deadwood invertebrates are of Grit occur on the north side of the Skell
international importance due to the rarity valley, forming Echo Cliff which is where
of old parkland in Europe. Many trees are much of the building stone for the abbey
more than three hundred years old and a was quarried. Exposures of Magnesian
few date from before 1600. The native Limestone can be seen either side of the
oak, field maple and yew trees, as well formal water gardens and within the Seven
as the introduced lime, beech and sweet Bridges Valley. In the late Pleistocene a
chestnut trees support a wide variety river swollen with glacial meltwater cut
of saproxylic invertebrates that are the steep sided valley of Fountains Abbey
dependent on dead or decaying wood, and the Seven Bridges gorge along which
as well as other organisms. today’s River Skell flows. The natural
shelter provided by the deep post-glacial
The ancient woodland on the valley sides river valley, the presence of water and the
is rich in bluebell and dog’s mercury as surrounding geology and geomorphology
well as bird’s nest orchid, small teasel and have all influenced the development of the
toothwort. The abbey ruins also support site, the design of the landscape and the
over fifty species of wall flora. construction of the historic buildings
and structures.
Enjoying the pond life in the water garden
16 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Chapter 11.4.3 Educational Recreation and tourism
and learning values The site has had a long history of
welcoming visitors, from the beginning
Many visitors come to the site to increase of the 17th century to today. Even before
their knowledge of the historic landscape, the Studley Royal landscaped garden was
wildlife and people who have lived here. finished, it was described as the ‘Wonder
The learning team provides visitors with of the North’ by a visitor (Travel Journal
a variety of different ways to discover of John Tracy Atkins, 1732). It is one of
the estate, its stories and history. These the most visited National Trust properties
include guided and self-led tours, an audio and a key attraction in Yorkshire, drawing
tour of the abbey and lively exhibitions. visitors from many parts of Britain and
For children and students there are overseas. Each year approximately
classrooms and workshops at Swanley 350,000 visitors come to the paying
Grange which offer year round activities area and an estimated 150,000 people
to help children and young people learn visit the deer park.
about different aspects of the site.
Religious and spiritual
The site also works with local colleges,
universities and apprenticeship schemes, The estate retains an active and significant
to provide a learning base for people to spiritual and celebratory significance
develop skills in the conservation and for many people. A small number of
care of historic places. ecumenical services take place in the abbey
East green of the abbey
church, notably at Easter and Christmas.
During the summer months the parish
1.4.4 Social, economic minister and current and former members
Economic Many of the visitors to the site also
and cultural values of the clergy volunteer their time so they
visit Ripon and other attractions in the
can respond to spiritual matters should it The site has always been a working estate local area and stay in nearby holiday
Community be appropriate. St Mary’s Church remains and its success as a visitor attraction accommodation. The estate is also an
consecrated and is used several times means it is an important economic driver important employer with many of its
Local people have strong attachments to a year for services, in addition to parish locally and regionally. It is one of the most staff living locally. The National Trust has
the World Heritage Site. The deer park and weddings and christenings. visited attractions in Yorkshire and one agricultural agreements with local farmers
the Seven Bridges Valley are very popular of only two World Heritage Sites in the
Peace and tranquillity relating to agricultural pockets of land on
for family outings, often with several region; Saltaire is the other. The estate is the fringes of the estate, which reinforces
generations coming for a walk, to see the committed to increasing the provision of
The site is highly valued for its tranquillity the economic and social significance of
deer and enjoy the views. The popularity locally sourced products and working with
and peaceful beauty and for providing a the estate and the important relationship
of the estate rests on the fact there local contractors.
quiet place for calm reflection. between the estate and the local
are many things to do but it is also still
community.
possible to find a quiet place. The majority
of the site’s regular volunteers live in Ripon,
Harrogate and the surrounding area.
Chapter 1 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 17Moon Ponds and Temple of Piety 18 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Chapter 2
Chapter 2: Managing
the World Heritage Site
This chapter sets out the roles and 2.1 Management structure The National Trust owns the Fountains
Abbey and Studley Royal estate and
Both Historic England and the English
Heritage Trust are represented on the
responsibilities of those involved
The National Trust, Historic England manages the garden, parkland, Fountains World Heritage Site Steering Group
in the management of Fountains Hall and the visitor infrastructure. The which has overall responsibility for the
Abbey and Studley Royal World and the English Heritage Trust are chiefly
responsible for the conservation and State owns St Mary’s Church and it is preparation and delivery of the World
Heritage Site and the process for maintenance of the site. cared for by the English Heritage Trust Heritage Site Management Plan.
this update of the plan. on its behalf, although the day to day
It should be noted that in 2015, English management has been taken on by the
Heritage split into two separate National Trust under a Local Management
organisations: Agreement. All three organisations play a
role in the conservation and management
— Historic England, a public body to of the abbey ruins and Fountains Abbey
champion and protect England’s Mill. The abbey ruins and mill are in a
historic environment, and Guardianship Agreement with the State
and therefore although owned by the
— English Heritage Trust, a new
National Trust, their conservation is the
independent charity retaining the
responsibility of the English Heritage
name English Heritage, to look after
Trust. The English Heritage Trust also
— on behalf of the nation — the National
takes care of the monastic artefacts at
Heritage Collection of more than 400
Helmsley Stone Store. The abbey precinct
historic sites across England including
is a scheduled monument and Historic
the ruins of Fountains Abbey.
England is responsible for advising the
Department for Culture, Media and Sport
whether consent should be given for works
affecting the scheduled monument. They
also provide advice on listed buildings,
planning and research.
Chapter 2 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 19A detailed explanation of responsibilities
Place Management English Heritage Trust Responsibility National Trust Responsibility
is shown in the table.
Framework
Abbey ruins 1966 Guardianship Consolidation and maintenance of the ruins Maintenance of surfaces inside and
Agreement for the (standing fabric and buried archaeology), outside the abbey and erosion control,
abbey ruins including vegetation control, condition visitor management, interpretation and
surveys, research, excavations and the activities. Contribution to archaeological
conservation of artefacts in the Helmsley investigation of the ruins.
and on-site store.
Precinct wall 1966 Guardianship Expertise and advice. Consolidation and maintenance
Agreement for the of the wall.
abbey ruins
Fountains 1966 Guardianship Excavations, consolidation and Access, interpretation, surroundings,
Abbey Mill Agreement for the conservation of the fabric. mill leat and water management.
abbey ruins
St Mary’s Church Local Management Conservation of the church, interpretation Visitor access, lighting, cleaning, organ
Agreement for St and guidebook. playing, stewarding and interpretation.
Mary’s Church 2014
The WHS Steering Group includes
representatives from the National Trust,
The WHS Stakeholder Group meets
annually to monitor delivery of the plan
2.2 Producing the plan
Historic England, the English Heritage and has helped inform the management This plan was developed by the WHS
Trust, North Yorkshire County Council, issues and actions in this plan. The Group Coordinator and the WHS Steering
Harrogate Borough Council and the includes local landowners, the local Group. Consultation events were held
International Council on Monuments authority, representatives from the local throughout the plan process to gather
and Sites-UK (ICOMOS-UK). The Steering community including mayors and parish people’s opinions on the issues that matter
Group is responsible for setting the councillors, businesses, tourism and the most to them. This ensured that
management priorities and monitoring environmental organisations and interest national and local organisations, visitors
delivery of the plan. groups. A list of these stakeholders can and local residents had the opportunity
be found in Appendix 4. to make their voices heard and shape this
The WHS Coordinator is based on the
site and is responsible for coordinating, revision of the plan. A questionnaire was
preparing and monitoring delivery of also available for completion online and
the WHS Management Plan. promoted through National Trust social
media networks. A second phase of formal
consultation on the draft plan was held
from December 2014 to February 2015.
The outcomes of the consultation can
be found in Appendix 5.
20 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Chapter 2The process, including key milestones
in the preparation of the plan, is set
out below.
Sep-13
Oct-13
Nov-13
Dec-13
Jan-14
Feb-14
Mar-14
Apr-14
May-14
Jun-14
Jul-14
Aug-14
Sep-14
Oct-14
Nov-14
Dec-14
Jan-15
Feb-15
Mar-15
Apr-15
May-15
Jun-15
Jul-15
Aug-15
Sep-15
Review of current Plan
WHS Stakeholder event 26 September
Action plan of current plan reviewed
Engagement strategy produced
WHS Steering Group agree enagagement strategy: 22 January
Consultation
Discussions on key management issues with partners
Engagement with property staff & volunteers: 5 & 6 March
Community engagement event at Ripon Town Hall: 22 March
Visitor engagement at World Heritage Weekend: 3, 4 & 5 May
Online and paper questionnaire launched
WHS Steering Group to review Draft Consultation Report
Drafting the Plan
Draft the chapters of the plan
WHS Steering Group review objectives chapter of draft plan
Consultation on the draft Plan
WHS Steering Group meet to sign off draft plan for consultation
Stakeholder meeting to consider actions of draft plan: 20 Nov
Draft plan published for consultation: 8 weeks Nov to Jan
Summary of draft plan produced
WHS Steering Group review consultation responses March
Amending and finalising the Plan
Amend the Plan following consultation
Submit Plan to DCMS for endorsement and send to UNESCO
Printing and launch of Plan
Chapter 2 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 21An aerial view of the water garden 22 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Chapter 3
Chapter 3: Current Ripon City Plan Committee which includes
the Ripon Mayor and representatives
from Ripon City Council and other local
issues affecting the interests is leading the preparation of a
Neighbourhood Plan called the Ripon
World Heritage Site
City Plan. Neighbourhood planning was
introduced through the Localism Act
2011 and gives communities powers to
make a development plan for their area.
The National Trust and their partners at
the Council are working closely to ensure
that the UNESCO approved buffer zone is
included in the plan, particularly policies
This chapter sets out the 3.1 Ensuring protection to protect the vista from the WHS to Ripon
main issues to be addressed at
Fountains Abbey and Studley
of the World Heritage Cathedral and beyond to Blois Hall Farm.
Royal World Heritage Site over Site, buffer zone and The planning and policy framework for
the WHS is set out in Appendix 3.
the next 6 years. The issues wider setting through The magnificent view along the
were identified by: Link to Objective E
the planning system
lime avenue to Ripon Cathedral
— consulting a wide range of stakeholders
including national and local Ensuring the protection of the WHS, the last plan period and approved by the 3.2 Adequacy of the
organisations, local communities and its buffer zone and wider setting continues World Heritage Committee in 2012. The
visitors to be a high priority. Although the area buffer zone boundary is shown on Map boundaries of the World
— reviewing the objectives in the last plan
within the boundary of the WHS is unlikely
to be subject to development proposals
2. Policies to protect the WHS, the buffer
zone and its wider setting were included in
Heritage Site
and progress on delivery of the 6 year which impact on its outstanding universal the Harrogate Borough Council Draft Sites
action plan value (due to the fact it is wholly owned by and Policies Development Plan Document
the National Trust), outside the boundary (DPD). This was withdrawn in June 2014,
— analysing the key performance
there is potential for development however, following concerns expressed by
indicators set out in the last plan and
proposals to threaten the values of the the Inspector at the Public Examination.
the results of the 2012 Periodic Report
WHS. These could include large scale or Work has now started on the preparation
which assessed the state of conservation
poorly sited renewable energy schemes, of a new Local Plan but it is expected
of the World Heritage Site (WHS)
some agricultural developments and to take three years before the plan is
Defining these issues has helped shape inappropriately sited buildings which submitted for examination. In the interim,
the long-term objectives and actions set could harm its setting or key views into planning policies contained in the existing How Hill tower
out in Chapter 4 of the plan. Where an or out of the site. Harrogate District Local Plan together with
issue is addressed by a specific objective guidance in the Heritage Management The boundaries of the WHS are based on
As a response to the potential harmful Supplementary Planning Document will
these have been highlighted in this section the National Trust ownership boundary
impact on the WHS of development provide a basis for protecting the OUV of
of the plan. when the site was acquired in 1983.
outside the boundary, the development the WHS and its wider setting including
of a buffer zone was taken forward in The boundary of the site was proposed
the buffer zone.
Chapter 3 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 23by the UK Government to the World
Heritage Committee because it
Visitor pressure on the historic fabric
presents issues for the maintenance of the
3.4 Financial sustainability The main source of funding for the estate
is admissions and membership income.
represented an area managed by the least outstanding universal value of the WHS of the WHS Visitor spending in the restaurants and
number of stakeholders. ICOMOS-UK, and the conservation and presentation of shops, as well as staying in one of eleven
however, recognised that there were other the gardens and parklands. The National holiday cottages on site, also makes a
areas outside the proposed boundary, Trust has identified the following issues very important contribution to the site’s
most notably How Hill, Chinese Woods currently facing the site: financial sustainability.
and Spa Gill, which were part of the 18th
century gardens and should be included — wear and tear to car park surfaces A lot of work was done over the previous
within the WHS at a later time. These areas caused by the number of cars and plan period to diversify the commercial
now lie within the WHS buffer zone but year round use activities on site, reducing reliance on
are still outside the WHS boundary. visitor income. Projects included the
— e rosion to path edges on the estate and development of five new holiday cottages
Link to Objective F on roads through the deer park by visitor at How Hill.
and delivery vehicles
Yorkshire has an extensive tourism offer,
3.3 Encouraging more —d
amage to grassland and compaction
around tree roots at Studley Lakeside
and there is a vast number of other historic
sites within the region that compete
visitors while continuing car park and the footpath around for the same leisure and visitor spend.
the lake
to ensure the peaceful While the region’s richness in cultural and
natural heritage does attract domestic
beauty and tranquillity —d
amage to the paving at the Studley
Royal entrance by delivery vehicles and international visitors to the site, the
of the WHS is maintained — e rosion to the footpaths and entrances
National Trust holiday cottages
at the West Gate entrance
competitive environment can put visitor
numbers at risk.
The WHS has seen a growth in visitor to the abbey ruins, particularly in winter
when the ground is waterlogged Link to Objective C
numbers of approximately 2% per year To conserve and protect the WHS for
over the last plan period and on peak days Assessment work carried out to inform future generations, it is vital that income
such as Easter, bank holidays and during the last plan and recent customer research is raised to fund conservation work. The 3.5 Managing the impacts
school holidays, visitor numbers can site relies on its role as a popular visitor
reach 4000 a day. During busy periods
carried out by the National Trust showed
attraction to generate income. Visitor
of flooding and siltation
that people value the site for its peaceful
the capacity of the car parks is exceeded and tranquil surroundings, the beautiful numbers for the site are still on an upward
with the result that visitors park on the The River Skell runs through the estate and
setting in the Skell Valley, the echoes of trend. Recent years, however, have shown
grass verges along the main access road, was vastly modified in the 18th century to
the past, the atmosphere and spiritual that these numbers can be negatively
the deer park avenue and the grassland create the water garden. The river feeds
values. It is important that visitor pressure affected by the economic environment,
surrounding the Studley Lakeside car park. the formal ponds, canals and cascades that
is carefully managed to maintain these weather and competitive pressures. The
There can also be some localised queuing form central features of the water garden.
valued attributes of the site. impact of the global credit crunch was
at the catering outlets and admission Upstream the catchment for the Skell
felt during the last plan period. As a
points. is relatively small at 36 sq. km and very
Link to Objective B primarily outdoors attraction, the site is
steep. It consists of soils which are prone
particularly susceptible to poor weather.
to compaction and therefore high levels
The wet summer of 2012 impacted
of run-off are experienced during periods
negatively on visitor numbers and
of heavy rainfall which can cause flooding
therefore visitor income.
of the WHS.
24 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 Chapter 3The Ripon Multi Objective Project
(Ripon MOP) was a partnership of
3.6 Managing the risks — impact on built structures including
the abbey ruins, Fountains Hall and the
stakeholders led by the Environment associated with climate garden buildings
Agency and involving Natural England,
Nidderdale AONB, the Forestry change — impact on soils and archaeology
Commission and the National Trust. — pests and diseases
Evidence suggests that significant global
Its aim was to reduce run-off from the
warming is occurring causing changes to
upper catchment of the Rivers Skell and Potential risks to the site include
the climate that can be seen now and are
Laver using a variety of soft engineering irreversible damage or loss of historic
Silt deposition in the Half Moon Reservoir likely to become widespread and more
techniques. Unfortunately, take up by features, landscapes and buildings due
severe in the future. Changes are already
land managers in the Skell catchment was to extreme weather changes; diminished
occurring in temperature and precipitation
It is clear from historical documents and limited, resulting in little flood alleviation. visitor enjoyment and access to the site
patterns towards hotter drier summers and
anecdotal evidence that historic features This project has now ended and there is as a result of flooding and drought; and
milder wetter winters but also increasing
set within the valley floor have been, and currently no catchment wide scheme in a threat to the integrity and authenticity
storminess and heavy rain. These changes
continue to be, at risk from the extremes of place to reduce silt deposition or manage of the landscape posed by potential
do have the potential to impact on the
river flow. The valley bottom sits within the flooding on the site. solutions to these risks. Work to identify
outstanding universal value (OUV) of the
flood risk area on the Environment Agency the risks associated with climate change
Whilst project work has stopped within WHS as well as the wider values of the
flood maps. The recent Inland Flood Risk and measures to adapt or mitigate them,
the catchment, the National Trust has estate. Management implications for the
Assessment for the abbey ruins (2013) whilst still maintaining the OUV of the
begun to focus on mitigation measures WHS and maintenance of the OUV include:
carried out by English Heritage identified WHS, remain a priority.
the area as ‘high risk’. The most significant within the site and is currently exploring
— impact of flash floods and low water
threat to the outstanding universal value options to manage flooding within the Although some possible impacts of climate
levels on the landscape design and
of the WHS continues to be flooding that water garden. It continues to allocate change have been identified, there is
its built and natural features (link to
causes damage to the built and natural comparatively large financial and staff no robust baseline data demonstrating
issue 3.5)
heritage and the deposition of silt within resources to the management of the water trends in climatic conditions and modelled
the river course. The build-up of silt in course. In 2010 the Trust spent £0.5 million — grassland management, including predictions of how this might impact on
the lake, canal, moon ponds and reservoir on the Studley Lake Project which included maintenance of the lawns the site.
affects the garden design and reflective removal of silt from the lake. There is no
external funding available for these works. — the condition and selection of trees Link to Objective G and L
qualities of the water.
The dredging programmes will continue and maintenance of historic planting
The 2004 Environment Agency report to generate vast quantities of silt therefore patterns
on the Ripon Flood Alleviation Scheme new ways of reusing this material off-site
detailed a flood alleviation option for the need to be explored. — the condition and maintenance of
River Skell upstream of Fountains Abbey. garden features such as the yew hedges
That option, however, was not adopted by Link to Objective G and L and bosquets
the Agency and the valley floor remains — the vulnerability of exposed rock faces
at high risk from flooding. Weirs, walls, which form important elements of the
historic structures, including the abbey garden design in the Chinese landscape
ruins, and natural features such as soils at Seven Bridges, within the water
and plants continue to be vulnerable to garden and adjacent to the abbey
flood damage or loss. Low levels of flow
Flooding in the abbey cloister in 2007
also impact on the water garden.
Chapter 3 World Heritage Site Management Plan 2015 — 2021 25You can also read
