Hadrian's Wall bids for world first in fair trade

Dec 4 2008 by Tony Henderson, The Journal

A DRIVE has been launched to make Hadrian’s Wall a Fairtrade zone. Hadrian’s Wall Country covers an area 10 miles on either side of the World Heritage Site from South Shields to Bowness-on-Solway in Cumbria.

If the bid is successful, Hadrian’s Wall Country would become the first cross-county Fairtrade zone in the world and the first Fairtrade world heritage site.

“This is a really exciting project,” said Lauren Harrison, chairman of a steering group which has been set up to lead the campaign.

“Newcastle, Brampton and Carlisle already have Fairtrade status and Hexham and Haltwhistle are well on the way – we’re now joining the dots.

“For this ambitious project to succeed, there will be a lot of work to do. The corridor cuts through two counties, two cities and many towns and villages, and the project will involve bringing people together along the whole length of the Wall.”

The steering group will have representatives from each of the Fairtrade towns, as well as Hadrian’s Wall Heritage Ltd which runs the Hadrian’s Wall Locally Produced scheme.

Hadrian’s Wall Heritage Ltd was set up in 2006 to help look after, protect and conserve the World Heritage Site, as well as to enhance the quality of the visitor experience and increase the Wall’s contribution to the local and regional economy through sustainable tourism.

Julie Sloan, its sustainable development officer, said: “The Hadrian’s Wall Locally Produced scheme attracts a number of local producers and retailers that promote best practice in food production.

“A Fairtrade designation for Hadrian’s Wall Country would further enhance our reputation as a destination that celebrates and encourages sustainable development.”

Details from Lauren Harrison on (016977) 47962 or stay@willowford.co.uk