Land use modelling in the Sedbergh district of Cumbria

Abstract

This study investigates a potential planning method that may be useful to rural planning, which looks at the use of land for agriculture and forestry by means of a simple modelling approach. A land use model based on linear programming is defined for the Sedbergh district of Cumbria. The model looks at the optimal allocation of land use activities to different land types which are classified on a grid square basis. It provides valuable information on suggested land allocations in the district and the associated levels of production, production value and labour requirements. The model is capable of exploring a wide range of conditions looking at the effect of policy proposals or a certain course of action. The ability of the model is illustrated by exploring land use allocation under different restrictions and by looking at the suggested use of common land in the Sedbergh district. The model suggests that it would be advantageous in terms of the- economic value of production, to use the upper and middle slopes for forestry and sheep rearing and to devote the lowland areas to dairying and cattle rearing activities. Common land is suggested as being used for both forestry and sheep rearing. The limitations and uncertainties of the model are considered and the potential value and likely use of the model in planning is discussed. The model offers an aid to part of the rural planning process which could improve communications between the planners concerned and provide a basis for stimulating planning discussions.