Uplands Alliance

The Uplands Alliance is a network bringing together people who care about England’s uplands, including practitioners, researchers and those involved in policy. Hosted by the University of Cumbria’s Centre for National Parks and Protected Areas at its Ambleside campus, the Alliance encourages collaborative approaches to the challenges and opportunities facing upland landscapes and communities.

Its work connects evidence with practical experience, with the aim of informing policy, piloting new approaches, evaluating existing policies and practices, and identifying gaps in knowledge. The Alliance has engaged with issues including the Agriculture Bill and the development of the Environmental Land Management Scheme, and has worked to connect Defra with upland farmers. Its activities include projects, reports, news and events, such as conferences and panel discussions. People can register their interest to join the network and receive updates. The website also offers a tea towel in support of the uplands. Through collaboration and knowledge-sharing, the Uplands Alliance seeks to advance policies and schemes that recognise the distinctive character of upland areas and the benefits they provide to society.