I have just been contacted by the secretary of the Rivington Soaring Association (modellers) stating that some of their members were stopped recently by Arqiva TV Mast security staff as they went up the road past the Winter Hill transmitter.

The staff told them that the bottom gate on the access road will be locked Monday-Friday overnight (17:00 to 08:00) and all day at the weekends, this is to restrict public vehicular access since the moorland fires.

I don’t think it is a bad thing if it restricts the BBQ brigade from setting fire to the moor again.  This use to be the arrangement at Winter Hill a few years back with a combination lock on both gates.

I have tried to get in contact with the UU Land Agent but at this point in time I am not sure when the lock is going on the gate, but I understand that any organisation that has an agreement with UU will be given the code to the lock.

Keep me posted if you find the gate locked or are challenged by the Arqiva TV Mast staff.

Andy Archer

PSC Sites Officer

07824 321574

RSPB have announced that there has been successful fledging of several hen harrier chicks in the Bowland Forest area. They request people stick to marked tracks in the area to avoid stressing these birds during the breeding season. Please be aware of this when flying in the area, and think carefully about landing out where you could disturb them.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-lancashire-48607497#

We are now re-opening Winter Hill - The moor fires are extinguished and the access road is clear, therefore we see no reason to keep it closed.

I have been unable to speak to the landowners, United Utilities, however I flew over there recently in a light aircraft, as you can see the stone wall seems to have protected the takeoff.

If anyone uses the site and experiences any issues please let me know ASAP

Thanks

Andy Archer
Sites Officer

A UAV will be carrying out survey work in our area, exact date/time is weather dependant, and will be notified in advance if possible and practical, but this cannot be relied upon. The brief email details are as below, copied for all to read. If you notice the UAV please keep away from the operating area. This is not a long term issue, just until the survey work is carried out.

Please see below to indicate the area of operation in Jpeg format and also kml for those with Google earth installed on their PC, but as detailed below, the aircraft will require additional space in which to turn. This may bring the UAV into hill soaring territory.

Watch out, allow space, keep clear please.