Download the Management Plan - Carlisle City Council

Contents 

Introduction & Site Descriptions..................................................................................................... 6 

Executive Summary ........................................................................................................................ 7 

Vision .............................................................................................................................................. 7 

Location & Access .......................................................................................................................... 8 

Map 3 Talkin Tarn Country Park – With Boundaries Marked In Purple........................................ 9 

Map 4 Phase 1 Habitat Compartment Map ................................................................................... 10 

Tenure............................................................................................................................................ 11 

Site Description............................................................................................................................ 11 

Geology ..................................................................................................................................... 11 

Hydrology.................................................................................................................................. 11 

Climate ...................................................................................................................................... 11 

Soils ........................................................................................................................................... 12 

Wayleaves ..................................................................................................................................... 12 

Brief History.................................................................................................................................. 12 

The Legend of the Tarn ............................................................................................................. 12 

Strategic Context ........................................................................................................................... 13 

Biodiversity Action Plans.......................................................................................................... 13 

The Cumbria Biodiversity Action Plan (CBAP) has 39 Species and Habitat Action Plans ..... 13 

County Wildlife Site.................................................................................................................. 14 

Transfer Aims............................................................................................................................ 14 

SWOT analysis.......................................................................................................................... 15 

Vision ............................................................................................................................................ 15 

Management Plan Review............................................................................................................. 15 

Staffing & Responsibilities ........................................................................................................... 15 

Site Administration........................................................................................................................ 17 

Finance .......................................................................................................................................... 17 

Customer Service .......................................................................................................................... 18 

Information Technology................................................................................................................ 18 

Conservation ................................................................................................................................ 20 

Habitat Management ..................................................................................................................... 21 

Woodland .................................................................................................................................. 21 

Hedgerows................................................................................................................................. 21 

Verges........................................................................................................................................ 22 

Boundaries................................................................................................................................. 22 

Grassland ................................................................................................................................... 22 

Grazing .................................................................................................................................. 22 

Countryside Stewardship............................................................................................................... 22 

Grasscutting........................................................................................................................... 23 

Farlam Meadow..................................................................................................................... 23 

Entrance Drive – Tarn End Field .......................................................................................... 24 

Tarn End – Sluice Wood Field .............................................................................................. 24 

Hell Beck – Roman Wood..................................................................................................... 24 

Orchid Meadow ..................................................................................................................... 25 

Open Water................................................................................................................................ 25 

The Tarn ................................................................................................................................ 25 

Car Park Pond........................................................................................................................ 29 

Watercourses ............................................................................................................................. 30 

Outflow.................................................................................................................................. 30 

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Inflow .................................................................................................................................... 30 

Marsh & Wet Areas................................................................................................................... 30 

Species Management ..................................................................................................................... 30 

Mammals ................................................................................................................................... 30 

Flora/Vegetation ........................................................................................................................ 31 

Invasive Species .................................................................................................................... 31 

Fungi.......................................................................................................................................... 32 

Fish ............................................................................................................................................ 32 

Butterflies/Moths (Lepidoptra).................................................................................................. 32 

Dragonflies/Damselflies (Odonata)........................................................................................... 32 

Sustainable Management Operations ............................................................................................ 33 

Energy Efficiency...................................................................................................................... 33 

Peat Use ..................................................................................................................................... 34 

Waste & Recycling.................................................................................................................... 34 

Tearoom Waste...................................................................................................................... 34 

Office Waste.......................................................................................................................... 34 

Pesticide Policy ......................................................................................................................... 35 

Water Use .................................................................................................................................. 35 

Education ..................................................................................................................................... 36 

Education Cabin ............................................................................................................................ 37 

Orienteering Course ...................................................................................................................... 37 

Marked Trails ................................................................................................................................ 37 

Environmental Education Programmes......................................................................................... 38 

Numeracy Trail.............................................................................................................................. 38 

Moodle........................................................................................................................................... 38 

Rock Detectives............................................................................................................................. 39 

Geocaches...................................................................................................................................... 39 

Work Experience Placements........................................................................................................ 39 

Community Programmes............................................................................................................... 40 

Friends of Talkin Tarn............................................................................................................... 40 

Friends Of Newsletter ............................................................................................................... 40 

Volunteers ................................................................................................................................. 40 

Marketing ...................................................................................................................................... 41 

Marketing Vision....................................................................................................................... 42 

Visitor Surveys .......................................................................................................................... 42 

Site Logo ................................................................................................................................... 42 

Site Leaflet ................................................................................................................................ 42 

Site Folders................................................................................................................................ 42 

Tearoom Table-Top Folders...................................................................................................... 43 

Press Releases............................................................................................................................ 43 

Interpretation ................................................................................................................................. 43 

Bird/Squirrel Feeding area ............................................................................................................ 44 

Information Points ......................................................................................................................... 44 

Signage .......................................................................................................................................... 44 

Entrance Sign ............................................................................................................................ 44 

Welcome Signs.......................................................................................................................... 45 

Directional Signs ....................................................................................................................... 45 

Weather Station ............................................................................................................................. 45 

Recreation .................................................................................................................................... 46 

Facilities ........................................................................................................................................ 47 

Dog Bins/Litter Bins ................................................................................................................. 47 

Graffiti & Vandalism................................................................................................................. 48 

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Dogs........................................................................................................................................... 48 

Bird Observatory ....................................................................................................................... 49 

Willow Hide .............................................................................................................................. 50 

Paths .......................................................................................................................................... 50 

Buildings ....................................................................................................................................... 50 

Water Sports .................................................................................................................................. 52 

Talkin Tarn Amateur Rowing Club........................................................................................... 52 

Brampton Sailing Club .............................................................................................................. 53 

Times of Use (based on 1992 agreement) ..................................................................................... 53 

Rowing Boats Hire .................................................................................................................... 54 

Other Water Users ......................................................................................................................... 54 

Carlisle Model Boat Club.......................................................................................................... 54 

One life Triathlon & Carlisle Tri............................................................................................... 54 

Robin Wood Activity Centre..................................................................................................... 55 

Carlisle Sea Cadets .................................................................................................................... 55 

Local Schools ............................................................................................................................ 55 

Individual Use Of The Tarn .......................................................................................................... 55 

Day Permits ............................................................................................................................... 55 

Annual Permits .......................................................................................................................... 55 

Angling .......................................................................................................................................... 55 

Benches ......................................................................................................................................... 56 

Memorial Benches..................................................................................................................... 56 

Picnic Benches .......................................................................................................................... 56 

Sculpture........................................................................................................................................ 57 

Rights Of Way............................................................................................................................... 57 

Access to Wider Countryside ........................................................................................................ 58 

Bicycles & National Cycle Network ............................................................................................. 58 

Disability Access ........................................................................................................................... 58 

Public Transport Links .................................................................................................................. 59 

Play Area ....................................................................................................................................... 59 

Car Park ......................................................................................................................................... 59 

Development ............................................................................................................................. 59 

Charging .................................................................................................................................... 60 

Security.......................................................................................................................................... 60 

Events ............................................................................................................................................ 60 

Campsite ........................................................................................................................................ 61 

Boathouse Tearooms & Takeaway ............................................................................................ 62 

Opening Hours .............................................................................................................................. 63 

Staffing .......................................................................................................................................... 63 

Gift Shop ....................................................................................................................................... 64 

Health & Safety ........................................................................................................................... 66 

Water Safety Plan .......................................................................................................................... 67 

Fire Safety Plan ............................................................................................................................. 67 

Risk Assessments .......................................................................................................................... 67 

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)................................................................. 67 

First Aid......................................................................................................................................... 68 

Key to Action Plans....................................................................................................................... 68 

Annual Work Plan....................................................................................................................... 69 

Five Year Plan ............................................................................................................................. 80 

Maps .............................................................................................................................................. 86 

Abbreviations ................................................................................................................................ 86 

Bibliography .................................................................................................................................. 86 

4

Appendices .................................................................................................................................... 87 

5

Introduction 

& Site 

Descriptions 

6

Executive Summary 

This plan shows Carlisle City Councils intentions for Talkin Tarn Country Park and what can be 

expected in terms of maintenance and development over a five year period. It is intended 

primarily as a working document for City Council staff for managing the park. It however 

provides background information suitable for any interested parties to help them understand the 

past, present and the future direction of the park. A Phase 1 Habitat Survey has been undertaken 

in 2009 by James Hallam (student placement at the time) which adds larger scale maps 

photographs and compartmental detail to the management plan. This is in itself a large document 

and thus has been added as an appendix item. 

Vision 

“To provide a sustainable and accessible Country Park. Working towards Carlisle City 

Council current priorities while balancing the needs of providing quality opportunities for 

social, recreational, and learning activities, within an area of high wildlife and landscape 

conservation importance.” 

The plan is divided into logical sections covering all aspects of park management and each 

section offers some action points. These are looked at in more detail on the action plans (tables at 

rear of document). The sections are as follows; 

1. Site Description 

Covers basic information about the site including location, brief history, strategic context, vision, 

staffing and finance. 

2. Conservation 

This looks in detail at each of the main habitat areas in the park how they have been managed 

and how they are currently managed and the key species that inhabit them. It also considers 

sustainable management operations. 

3. Education 

Education in a variety of forms is integral to the site. This section considers the educational & 

interpretive facilities and how these can be maintained and developed. It also considers how 

marketing can be used. 

4. Recreation 

Recreation is an important aspect of the Tarn. Country Parks were originally set up as ‘gateways 

to the wider countryside’ this section looks at the facilities required by the public, the potential of 

the park for further recreation and how people access this information and the Tarn itself. 

5. Tearoom, Gift Shop & Takeaway 

The tearoom, gift shop and takeaway are managed as an integral part of the site involved in all 

aspects from events and schools to catering for training groups and meetings. Its wide range of 

services help to maintain year round service and cater for a wide customer base. It has a large 

influence over sustainability of the Tarn effecting issues such as waste production, fairtrade, 

energy and water use. The section also looks at staffing and opening hours. 

6. Health & Safety 

This section highlights the wide variety of health & safety issues effecting management of the 

Tarn and the responsibilities of the Council in meeting regulations for these. 

7. Action Plan Annual 

This is a plan of work that happens at the park at least once every year. It gives a brief 

description and location of the work with timescales and who is responsible to ensure the work is 

completed. 

8. Project Plan 5 years 

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This gives an overview of the key projects planned or proposed for further 

investigation/development over the next five years. 

Location & Access 

Talkin Tarn Country Park is located in the East Cumbria countryside, 12 miles east of the subregional 

centre of Carlisle. The Park is open throughout the year and is accessed by tarmac road 

from the B6413 Brampton to Castle Carrock road, 2 miles south of Brampton. 

Grid Reference NY544590 (car park) 

Map 1 Talkin Tarn’s Location in England 

Map 2 Talkin Tarn’s Location Within North Eastern Cumbria 

8

Map 3 Talkin Tarn Country Park – With Boundaries Marked In Purple 

9

Map 4 Phase 1 Habitat Compartment Map 

(small version for example only. Full A0 sized version held in site office) 

10

Tenure 

Freehold in perpetuity 

Talkin Tarn became a country park in 1972, while then the property of the former Cumberland 

County Council (now Cumbria County Council). Talkin Tarn then became the property of 

Carlisle City Council on 1 st April 2006. 

Site Description 

Talkin Tarn itself : 65 acres.(26 hectares) 

Surrounding land : 116 acres.(47 hectares) 

Entire Site: 181 acres (73 hectares) 

For the purposes of clarity, this excludes the old hotel area of 1.596 acres in its entirety; 

The Park comprises 26 hectares of open water, 8 hectares of ancient semi-natural broadleaved 

woodland and smaller areas comprising of 0.75 hectares of Scots Pine plantation, 2.5 hectares of 

wet heath and 2.25 hectares of marshy grassland. There is also grassland currently let to local 

farmers for sheep grazing. 40 hectares is designated as a County Wildlife Site because of the 

sites ancient semi-natural woodland and lowland wet heath habitats. (see section on county 

wildlife site) 

Geology 

The Tarn and surrounding landscape is glacial formed. An east travelling glacier, shown by the 

elongated eastwards rolling hills surrounding Talkin Tarn. Some of the hills may have risen 

above the moving glacier, while others will have been entirely engulfed by it. As the cold, hard 

top of the glacier was grinding away, it was actually melting underneath and materials were 

being deposited as it travelled. The weaker shales in the bedrock would have been gouged out, 

filled in, gouged out and filled in several times over a long period and as deglaciation started that 

is when the outwash gravels would have run all over the area forming the current landscape. 

Among the rocks found were Skiddaw slate and Penrith sandstone. These are both stones from 

the west of Talkin Tarn and this indicates that the ice has passed over these areas and dragged 

these stones with it. Among the stones are jagged bits and rounded bits, which is typical of 

glacial outwash material. 

Hydrology 

The Tarn has a maximum depth of 15 metres. Under the water it is shallow for several meters 

around the edges gradually deepening before it then drops off very deeply to a big hole. The 

water level has become shallower over time and if you look inland, you can see flat levels of 

ground around the Tarn that used to be the shoreline, when it was probably full of run off water 

from the glaciers. The water will have lowered over time due to the water seeping through the 

ground, evaporation and natural run off. It has settled down over thousands of years to the level 

it is today. The Tarn is now thought to be fed by underground springs from the north Pennines as 

well as 2 inlet streams. A map of water depths is available from the site office. 

Climate 

The Pennines form a natural barrier to east-west communications, but there are the Tyne gap 

linking Carlisle and Newcastle and the Aire gap linking Lancashire and Yorkshire. The Lake 

District in Cumbria includes Scafell Pike (978 metres), the highest mountain in England, and 

Windermere, the largest lake. To the north and NE, there is further low ground (below 60 

metres) in the Vale of Eden and the Solway Plain, close to Carlisle. The range of topography and 

altitude found in NW England provide a climate of great variety, and the region includes both the 

coldest place in England (Cross Fell in the Pennines) and the wettest place in England (the 

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Lakeland fells around Seathwaite in Cumbria). The higher parts of the Lake District are 

particularly wet, with an average of over 3200mm of rain each year. More sheltered areas of 

Cheshire and the Eden valley in Cumbria are drier with less than 800mm per year. These areas 

benefit from the 'rain shadow' effect of the high ground of N Wales and the Lake District 

respectively (sourced from the Met Office website) The Tarn itself has a small weather station 

and this is used for writing of wildlife reports and to assist with conservation research such as 

monitoring of blue green algae. 

Soils 

After the glacier melted 12,000 years ago, the tremendous outwash, of gravels and sands formed 

the hills surrounding the Tarn. This is why much of the soil around the Tarn is sandy with 

boulders and very low in nutrients. 

Wayleaves 

A file of maps showing the wayleaves across the site is held in the site office. It contains maps of 

public sewers, electricity cables, mains water pipes, BT cables and gas pipelines. The site 

however is not on mains sewers and propane gas for the tearoom is supplied in bottles. 

Brief History 

Historically the Earl of Carlisle was the ‘Noble Proprietor’ of Talkin Tarn, he was based at 

Boothby Manor House, Brampton with Boothby Estates administering the Tarn plus surrounding 

woods and farmland. The Talkin Tarn Amateur Rowing Club (TTARC) was formed in 1859 and 

at some point after this took on the lease for the Tarn site from Boothby Estates. TTARC, the 

second oldest rowing club in Northern England, opened the site for public use employing a 

boatman to operate pleasure craft and undertake management of the surrounding land. For the 

majority of this period Boothby Estates was run by North Cumbria Labour MP Wilfrid Hubert 

Wace Roberts (28 th Aug 1900 – 26 th May 1991) who had succeeded his father, Charles Henry 

Roberts, 9 th Earl of Carlisle. In 1975/6 TTARC relinquished the lease of the site, with the Tarn 

and approximately 65 acres of adjoining land being sold to Cumbria County Council who 

created the country park which exists today. 

TTARC discontinued the provision of pleasure boats and became purely a user of the Tarn. 

Between 2006 Cumbria County Council officially 

handed control of the Tarn over to Carlisle City 

Council only retaining ownership of the former Tarn 

End Hotel, which was sold in 2009 for private 

development. The site has been used for many 

different activities over the years, the most notable of 

these being Rowing, Wrestling, Curling, Sailing, 

Swimming and Ice Skating. 

The Legend of the Tarn 

Talkin Tarn was in the midst of a storm when an outsider came to the village looking for shelter. 

She was turned away from every door. But the villagers hadn't realised that the stranger was a 

witch and as she walked down the hill, she turned and said: "May you be flooded". And so there 

was a flood and the Tarn was formed. The full legend can be found in the site office. 

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Strategic Context 

Talkin Tarn is working towards the strategic Corporate Plan from which Carlisle City Council’s 

current priorities are Local Environment & Economy (2010) Talkin Tarn comes under the Local 

Environment Directorate, Neighbourhood and Green Spaces Team. Key aims for Talkin Tarn 

from the Local Environment Action Plan are; 

• Review the structure of the Neighbourhoods and Green Space team to move towards area 

based service delivery – including O&S Task Group and links with key partners.(April 

2011) 

• Develop a volunteer plan with Friends groups and partners to increase engagement in 

parks and green spaces. 

As a Country Park it has achieved Green Flag status in 2010 and also meeting other 

environmental plans such as; 

Biodiversity Action Plans 

Biodiversity Action Plans (BAP’s) provide a framework for achieving the conservation of 

biodiversity based on the targeting of resources towards priority habitats and species. BAPs also 

provide a means for the involvement in conservation of a wide range of organisations and 

members of local communities. 

Three types of Action Plans have been developed which set priorities for nationally important 

and locally important habitats and wildlife - Species Action Plans, Habitat Action Plans and 

Local Biodiversity Action Plans. These are described further below. 

Two types of documents have been produced about the habitats within the UK: 

Broad Habitat Statements provide summary descriptions of all habitats found within the UK and 

are identified in the Broad Habitat Classification. For example, natural habitat types such as 

broadleaved woodlands and rivers and streams, through to urban settings. In addition to a general 

description of the habitat type these Statements identify the current issues affecting the habitat 

and the broad policies, which can be put in place to address these. 

Priority Habitat Action Plans provide more detailed descriptions for 45 specific types of habitats 

such as native pine woodlands, upland oak woods and lowland wood pasture and parkland. They 

set out detailed actions that can be taken by a number of agencies in order to safeguard and 

enhance these habitats. 

Local Action Plans are in preparation or being implemented across Great Britain. Each Action 

Plan works on the basis of partnership to identify local priorities and to determine the 

contribution they can make to the delivery of the national Species and Habitat Action Plan 

targets. 

The Cumbria Biodiversity Action Plan (CBAP) has 39 Species and Habitat 

Action Plans 

Covering over 700 individual actions designed to conserve and / or enhance a range of 

threatened species and habitats of both local and national importance. 

Specifically, the objectives of the Cumbria BAP are essentially three-fold, to: 

• Implement national biodiversity targets at the local level. 

• Address local priorities not identified in the UK plan. 

• Engender greater awareness and understanding of Cumbria’s biodiversity and 

13

wider participation in its conservation. 

Our management of Talkin Tarn will take into account the relevant habitat and species 

action plans which are appropriate to the site, These are primarily the red squirrel. 

County Wildlife Site 

The site is a County Wildlife Site (CWS). These are areas of land recognised as being at least 

county, sometimes national, importance for their nature conservation value; this is defined by the 

presence of important, distinctive and threatened habitats and species. County Wildlife Sites is a 

non-statutory designation that has been used to recognise high quality wildlife habitats in each 

county; some sites may be of similar quality to SSSIs. County Wildlife Sites, therefore, play a 

vital role in the conservation of the UK’s natural heritage by providing essential wildlife refuges, 

stepping-stones, corridors and buffers linking and protecting other designated sites and open 

spaces both in towns and the countryside. (source Cumbria Wildlife Trust) The report sheet 

produced by Cumbria Wildlife Trust is held in the site office. It states the guidelines for selection 

of Talkin Tarn as; H1.1.1: Site in Ancient Woodland Inventory semi-natural canopy, H4.1:Bog 

and mire indicative of listed NVC communities, H4.3:Bogs>0.5ha with 3+listed indicator 

species and H4.4:Bog sites>10ha with dwarf shrubs cover >25%. 

Transfer Aims 

Original Aims for the park were quoted in the committee report to the Community Overview and 

Scrutiny Committee 26 th August 2004 entitled ‘Proposed Transfer of Talkin Tarn from County 

Council to City Council’ 

2004 Overall objectives: 

• To retain public ownership and access of the Talkin Tarn estate by transferring it from 

the County Council to the City Council. 

• To provide enhanced facilities for the public through a general refurbishment and 

upgrade of the buildings. 

• To improve public access and comply with Disabled Discrimination legislation by 

upgrading appropriate footpaths and car park. 

• To improve the ecological and environmental aspects of the estate. 

• To bring forward proactive management which promotes various Carlisle City Council 

corporate objectives in relation to, leisure culture environmental and educational themes. 

The management plan will aim to update these objectives in the context of where the Tarn is now 

5 years later and what Carlisle City Council’s priorities are for the next 5 years. A vision for this 

is outlined below. 

Current Carlisle City Council Priorities (2010) are; Local Environment & Economy 

Action 

Apply for LNR Status 

Apply for Green Flag Award 

Apply for Natural England Country Park Status (accreditation) 

14

SWOT analysis 

Strengths 

• Landscape 

• Long established history of public use 

• Integrated management between all 

entities of the park 

• Partly self funding 

• Positive group usage (rowing & 

sailing clubs) 

• Environmental education programmes 

Opportunities 

• Water sports development 

• Better woodland management 

• Enhanced wild play facilities 

• Areas for additional woodland 

planting 

• Increased public involvement 

• More regular events 

• Enhanced wildlife conservation focus 

Weaknesses 

• Blue green algae 

• Lack of conservation management at 

present time 

• Lack of survey data 

• Lack of knowledge on visitors 

• Lack of knowledge of visitors on what 

happens and why 

Threats 

• Lack of public knowledge on country 

parks and their purpose & subsequent 

management 

• Blue green algae as result of nutrient 

build up 

• Not entirely self funding 

Vision 

“To provide a sustainable and accessible Country Park. Working towards Carlisle City 

Council current priorities while balancing the needs of providing quality opportunities for 

social, recreational, and learning activities, within an area of high wildlife and landscape 

conservation importance.” 

Management Plan Review 

The plan is intended to be a rolling programme that can be regularly updated and modified. The 

annual review should be a fairly quick and straightforward process. The annual review will 

provide an opportunity not just to create the annual plan for the forthcoming year, but also to 

evaluate successes and failures over the previous twelve-month period. 

The five year work plan will need revision and extending so that the vision behind the plan is 

always considering the long term. 

• Habitat and species management will need to be reviewed in light of changes of status, 

legislation and guidance especially through the BAP process. 

• Recreational Management should continue with regular review of users and current trends 

• Education Management and provision will need to keep pace with changes in national 

curriculum and other guidance notes. 

• Changes within Carlisle City Council priorities 

In the main a major rewrite should not be necessary until the end of the plan period in 2015. 

Staffing & Responsibilities 

Full job descriptions are kept in the site office. Currently on-site staff are as follows; 

15

Country Park Manager, (CPM) responsible for overall management of the site, including the 

safety of staff and visitors. Based on site 9am – 5pm Mon- Fri 37hrs/week 

Tarn Supervisor, (TS) responsible for the day to day practical management of the site and 

running of volunteers, environmental education activities and the running of events. Based on 

site 8am – 4pm Mon- Fri 37hrs/week 

Tea Room /Gift Shop Manager, (TM) responsible for management of the tea room and gift shop 

and its staff. Based on site in the tea room 5 days/week (9am – 4pm) 34hrs/week 

Cook, Based in the tea room and responsible for preparation of food, 5 days/week (9.30am – 

4pm) 30hrs/week 

Casual Staff, assist in the running of the tea room, food preparation and serving of customers. 

Hours vary. 

Placement Student (bursary supported) working with the Tarn Supervisor and Tarn Manager in 

the day to day running of the site as part of a sandwich degree. Working with the team on set 

days each week for a full year, which includes working two Sundays/month to lead the volunteer 

team. Treated as a member of staff. 

Team Meetings are held to discuss any issues and pass on information once every 2 months on a 

weds early evening. This timing works well to be able to involve as many staff as possible. A list 

of action points are distributed after each meeting and progress is checked at subsequent team 

meetings. 

Team Appraisal Jan 2010 

A team appraisal is held annually (1 st one in Jan 2010) to ensure objectives are set for the park to 

work towards the corporate plan. 

Objectives from Jan 2010 are; 

• Continue to develop further opportunities for quality volunteering activities at Talkin 

Tarn as part of a wider Green Space volunteer network. Aiming to achieve 900 quality 

volunteer hours/year. 

• Enhance visitor experience through using a wide variety of interpretive media with the 

aim of accessing a broad selection of the community. A key focus at this time is on 

conservation management of the site. Increase audience by 10%. 

Priorities are; 

• Develop a measureable quality rating and increase the percentage of high quality volunteer 

hours. 

• Increase quantity and effectiveness of consultation 

• Staff and volunteer skills audit to ensure making the most out of the team 

• Provide more in-house training for staff and volunteers 

A Staff Newsletter is written by the Park Manager on months when there isn’t a team meeting to 

ensure information is passed on regularly and staff updated on any procedural changes. 

Induction is carried out for all staff members. This covers council procedures and courses as well 

as on-site procedures. 

16

Training for staff is identified through the appraisal process. A matrix of staff training that has 

been completed is held in the site office and updated as necessary. 

Action 

Investigate options for overlap of staffing cover and alternate weekend working. 

Site Administration 

This is carried out by on-site staff as follows; 

Bookings (All) 

Enquiries (All) 

Initiating Invoices (CPM) 

Ordering Materials (TM,CPM) 

Budget Monitoring (CPM) 

Phone Messages (All) 

Email Enquiries (CPM, TS, TM) 

Website Updates (CPM, TS) 

Visitor Enquiries (All) 

Banking Up (TM, CPM) 

Carlisle City Council Finance Team carry out final invoicing for which a fee is paid internally 

annually. 

A copy of office procedures are given to all staff as part of induction, which is required by audit. 

Finance 

The site is funded by Carlisle City Council. There is a separate Business Plan. Originally 

approved in 2005 prior to take over it was updated by the new manager in 2006 (for 2006-2008 

period) and then updated again in Dec 07. It was due for a further update in 2010, however due 

to a major upheaval within the department and major changes to budgets this will be reviewed in 

2011 when there is a better idea of expectations and budgets. The Business Plan describes the 

various income streams for Talkin Tarn and looks at constraints and opportunities. It also looks 

at expenditure such as staffing costs and also services that the Park offers which add value in 

other ways such as through voluntary person hours. 

Any additional income from site facilities such as the tearoom or car parking charges goes back 

into running the site. (ring fenced) A budget is allocated to the site annually. From this sub 

budgets are allocated for example to buildings maintenance, cleaning, staffing, internal charges 

for finance & administration. Other budgets are allocated based on past experience of site needs 

and running costs for example electricity and water bills. 

Most small projects can be funded from site budgets if managed carefully. For larger projects 

funding will need to be sort either from council or external funding bids. In the five year project 

plan larger projects that require additional funding have been noted. There is no guarantee that 

funding will be found for these. 

Predictions on income are also made in the budget to help offset costs. 

The tearoom is self funding with a projected budget of income and expenditure. Any shortfall 

must be met by the City Council. Any profit is ring fenced goes back into the running of the 

Tarn. 

In 2010/2011 a saving of 15% needs to be made from site budgets with an additional 13% saving 

in 2011/12. 

17

Customer Service 

We recognise that things can go wrong and that we can only put them right if customers are able 

to let us know. A compliments, concerns and suggestions system has been set up to collate 

information. Forms are available from the office and on the table top folders in the tearoom. 

Forms can be given back to staff or put in a special box in the tearoom. The site manager deals 

with responding to forms handed in as soon as possible. These are often discussed at team 

meetings as ways to promote discussion for improvements. If people feel they do not want to use 

this method then they can speak to the Green Spaces Manager whose contact details are provided 

on the form. Or they can use the Carlisle City Council customer contact centre. 

Staff attend a one day ‘Welcome Host’ training course led by Cumbria Tourism focusing on 

good customer service. Additional courses are also provided internally through Carlisle City 

Council such as communicating effectively and dealing with difficult situations. 

Information Technology 

The Tarn is connected to internet and email on a dial-up system linked to the council’s internal 

system. The tearoom has an independent wifi system available to the general public to use for 

free while in the tearoom. The site has website pages on the Carlisle City Council website 

located at www.carlisle.gov.uk/talkintarn The web address www.talkintarn.org.uk has 

additionally been purchased and is linked to take you directly to the Tarn’s web pages. These 

pages are updated regularly by the Tarn Manager and Tarn Supervisor. In 2009 the web pages 

had 2,500 hits, and in 2010 they had 5,500 hits. Showing that are pages are becoming more 

popular and an important point of contact with our visitors or potential visitors. 

Podcasts are currently being developed by site staff to help with the new Environment and Land 

Based Diploma’s. There is potential for more use of modern IT equipment at the Tarn and this 

should be explored further. The main constraining factor is the speed of the phone link to the 

Tarn which is dependant on BT improvements in Brampton. This could be overcome 

independently but was costed out at £40,000 in 2008 to provide a broadband service to the Tarn. 

This is not currently deemed viable due to the high cost. See also the section on Moodle under 

Education for our school specific interactive website. 

Action 

Identify new areas of IT potential for development 

18

Dave Pearson 

Tarn Supervisor 

1 x Placement Student 

2x p/t Casual weekend assistants 

Fiona Shipp 

Talkin Tarn Manager 

Dave I ngham 

Environmental Quality 

Heather Thomlinson 

Tea Room Manager 

1 x p/t Cooks 

>10 x p/t Casual Waitresses 

Jackie Brecken 

Operational Support Assistant 

Luke Leathers 

Operations Manager 

Ruth Harland 

Food Safety 

Phil Gray 

Neighborhoods & Green Spaces Manager 

Tony Box 

Senior Park Ranger 

Cliff Lindsley 

Park Ranger 

Agency Rangers 

x 4 

Local Environment 

Phil Gray 

Neighborhoods & Green Spaces 

John May 

Countryside Officer 

Cath Greggory 

Assistant Countryside Officer 

Gardeners 

Angela Culleton 

Assistant Director 

Local Environment 

Robert Mitchell 

Senior Supervisor 

Alan Todd 

John Little 

John Laughlin 

David Graham 

Philip Graham 

Steven Heaton 

Gary Hodgkinson 

Philip Anderson 

Philip Dixon 

Arborists 

Steve Connor 

Karl Schatz 

MIke Gardner 

Waste Services 

Andrew Nicholson 

Countryside Officer 

Gardeners 

Lee Lowis 

Parks Supervisor 

Peter Scott 

Robert Bone 

Graeme Horsley 

Peter Carney 

Stuart Falder 

Richard Otway 

Steven Telford 

Stuart Alexander 

Alison Armstrong 

Roger Illsley 

Jason O' Brian 

VACANT 

VACANT 

Play Area Inspectors 

Dale Foster 

Karl Robinson 

Keith Poole 

Highways Services 

Jeannie Pasley 

People & Places Officer 

Gardeners 

Graeme Farish 

Cemetries Supervisor 

David Shirvington 

Brian Jefferson 

Alan Pearson 

John Tiffen 

James Kenyon 

Gr avediggers 

Ian Plumbley 

John Murphy 

James Wilson 

Neil McEwan 

Elizbeth Alnutt 

Allotsment Officer 

19

Conservation 

20

Habitat Management 

Woodland 

The quality of woodland is recognised by the Park’s inclusion in Cumbria Wildlife Trust’s list of 

Wildlife Sites. Moreover, nearly 10 hectares of the woodlands are included in Natural England’s 

records of Ancient Semi-Natural Woodlands. 

This indicates that woodlands have been a major resource of the site for a very long time. The 

considerable amount of mature to very mature beech and sycamore along the northern Tarn edge 

is evidence that planting has taken place in the more recent past, probably dating back to 

Victorian times. The main woodland was extended by planting Scots Pine at the eastern edge of 

the main block in 1954, while two new woodlands have been planted away from the main block, 

the first one along the south end of the Tarn some 25 to 30 years ago and a second in 1984 on the 

sandy bank in the east of the site. A woodland management plan was drawn up in 1995 by 

Cumbria County Council. It covers a 10 year period and was the basis of a Woodland Grant 

Scheme which was approved in 1996. The English Woodland Grant Scheme (EWGS) is the 

Forestry Commission's suite of grants designed to develop the co-ordinated delivery of public 

benefits from England's woodlands. The aims of the EWGS are to: 

• sustain and increase the public benefits given by existing woodlands and 

• help create new woodlands to deliver additional public benefit. 

A woodland vegetation survey of the Park’s woodlands was carried out in October 2006 From 

this it is clear that the woodlands in the Park most closely resemble oak woodland types, and as 

such they are covered by the Habitat Action Plan for upland oak woodlands. The woodlands are 

included in the National Woodland Inventory (administered by the Forestry Commission). 

The city councils arboriculture team carry out any major tree 

works on site. Smaller scale works are carried out by site staff. 

The Tarn Supervisor is trainned in Quantative Tree Risk 

Assessment.(QTRA) 

A new draft woodland management plan was drawn up in March 

2007 by the former East Cumbria Countryside Project. Please 

refer to this and the woodland survey for detailed information on the sites woodland and 

potential future management. Updates were added to this plan in 2010 and a new 5 year 

programme of woodland management begun. A woodland improvement grant was also applied 

for in early 2011. 

Action 

Start tree planting programme as proposed in plan. 

Hedgerows 

The hedges provide nesting and feeding sites for birds, small mammals and invertebrates. They 

also act as corridors, linking to the wider countryside as well as within the park, which animals 

can move along relatively safely, in an otherwise open landscape. 

The site contains only a few hedgerows, condition described below. The majority of which 

currently have little management apart from occasional pruning. There is potential for new 

lengths of hedgerow to be planted further linking areas of existing woodland. See page 9 of 

woodland management plan. 

Hedgerow 1 (H1)Entrance drive – Mature hedge manage one side only 

21

Hedgerow 2 (H2)Tarn road – Planted approx 2005 shaded by mature trees, growth stunted 

Hedgerow 3 (H3)Tarn road – Planted approx 2003 shaded by mature trees, growth stunted 

Hedgerow 4 (H4)Hell Beck – Planted approx 2002 good growth, needs de-tubing 

Hedgerow 5 (H5)Boundary field – Planted approx 2003 good growth some de-tubing already 

done (2008) but evidence of rabbit damage. 

Hedgerow 6 (H6)Tarn End – Manage one side only. Mature Hedge to be trimmed back annually 

Action 

Explore further planting options for wildlife corridors 

Maintain existing hedgerows 

Verges 

The site has two main roadside verges running along Brampton to Castle Carrock road and the 

road to Talkin village, both these are narrow and steep with standard trees. No management work 

is currently carried out apart from removal of occasional dangerous trees next to the highway. It 

is debateable whether or not these standard trees are owned by Carlisle City Council as they are 

out of the boundary fence. 

Action 

Survey verges for any notable species 

Clarify verge tree ownership 

Boundaries 

The site has a variety of different boundaries these are marked by fencing, ditches, and stone 

walls. These boundaries need to be maintained. 

Fences are donated on maps as F1 with designation of either (W+B) for sheep fencing with 

barbed wire top strand or (W) for wire only or (PR) for post and rail. 

Inflows are donated on maps as IF1 

Outflows are donated on maps as OF1 

Action 

Clarify through plans exact boundary of Tarn land 

Survey & maintain boundary annually 

Grassland 

Both the grazing licence and the countryside stewardship scheme at the Tarn are managed for the 

city council by a company called Capita (current contact Charles Stevens) 

Action 

Carry out baseline survey of grassland areas NVC level 2 

Grazing 

Areas, Entrance Drive to Tarn field, Tarn End to Sluice Wood, Hell Beck to Roman Wood and 

Farlam Meadow are currently managed under a grazing licence in line with countryside 

stewardship requirements. See file in site office.. 

Countryside Stewardship 

Countryside Stewardship was introduced as a pilot scheme in England in 1991 and operates 

outside the Environmentally Sensitive Areas. Payments are made to farmers and other land 

managers to enhance and conserve English landscapes, their wildlife and history and to help 

people to enjoy them. The scheme has now closed to new applicants and has been superseded by 

22

the Environmental Stewardship scheme. Farmers with an existing agreement, which lasts for 10 

years, receive an annual payment on each hectare of land entered into the scheme. The CS 

agreement at the Tarn ends in 2011/2012. 

Grasscutting 

Areas that are not grazed are either left, managed on a regular grass cutting or strimming regime. 

Or a hay cut is taken with a reciprocating mower in late summer and where possible cuttings are 

removed. See annual action plan for regime. 

Farlam Meadow 

This individually distinct piece of grassland shows a wide diversity of habitats. The outer dry 

areas of the field are managed by sheep grazing under a grazing licence based on countryside 

stewardship requirements for grazing levels. The middle of the field which is generally slightly 

lower lying has a wet flush that runs through it. This has caused a change in vegetation. The 

edges of this expand and recede depending on current water levels. At times there are also small 

open water pools. A raised bank within this area has a few standard hawthorns and willows 

taking advantage of the drier conditions. These appear not to be self seeding at present but this 

situation should be monitored to prevent self seeding and consequent saplings starting to dry out 

the area. As the meadow raises up towards the woodland it gradually dries, again giving a 

change in species towards predominant meadow sweet and then bracken and gorse. This top end 

of the field has been fenced off for many years and not been grazed giving an indication of what 

some areas may turn into from a vegetation point of view if the grazing is removed. The meadow 

has potential for further expanding its diversity for wetland species in particular but before this 

can happen baseline data needs to be collected and trials undertaken. A vegetation survey was 

carried out in 2007. A copy is held in the site office. 

A public footpath runs along the edge of Farlam Meadow. This path has had stepping stones laid 

in approx 2004. It currently enters/exits the field via metal kissing gates in the top and bottom 

corners. The official line of the public footpath has been unofficially altered to reduce damage to 

the field’s vegetation and to assist the public in keeping their feet dry. 

On walking through this area small mammals have regularly been spotted and this would be a 

good area to carry out a survey. This could provide information on suitability of this area for 

other species higher up the food chain that may be using this area that are spotted less frequently. 

A small area of old fence exits in the central area of the field. This has long since fallen down 

and requires removing. 

Action 

Survey baseline quadrat with current grazing regime 

Study quadrat that is removed from grazing for a set period of time (1 year) 

Aquatic and marginal vegetation analysis and survey of aquatic invertebrates in existing open 

water pools next to path. Survey with emphasis on recording ordonata (dragonfly & damselfly) 

species in their larval form. 

Trial a new small area of open water in meadow if deemed appropriate as result of above survey. 

Site and size to be identified on the ground. All suitable vegetation that is removed should be 

replanted for bank stabilisation works around Tarn edge. 

Clear vegetation from stepping stones annually 

Apply for formal footpath change of location in line with current situation. 

Carry out small mammal’s survey. 

Remove old central area fence line. 

Manage Gorse area with rotational cutting 

23

Entrance Drive – Tarn End Field 

This field is grazed by sheep under a grazing licence and under countryside stewardship scheme. 

The field is divided into two by a stone wall. The field is very undulating and thus popular with 

children for sledging in the winter. It has also been used on a number of occasions for cyclocross 

events, lastly in Sept 09 organised through Border City Wheelers. The area next to the 

entrance drive is used a couple of times a year as a car park for the Regatta or similar other big 

event. All use of field other than for grazing is agreed in advance with grazing licence holder 

(Currently Mr Routledge). Running parallel to the entrance drive are a row of standard trees 

planted within large metal sheep guards. These are still fairly young with a mix of beech and oak 

and there are some gaps that need planting. There is also a row of older standard trees of a 

variety of species running along parallel to the Talkin village road. A few of the trees are 

memorial trees, which have associated plaques. No formal record is kept of these. 

The section of the field nearest Tarn End has a large area of gorse that was cut back in 2002 This 

is now re-growing. The boundaries of this field are a mix of stone walls and post and sheep wire 

fencing. There is also a small section of hedge bordering Tarn end. All are in good condition and 

just require general maintenance. The post and wire fence that borders Top Wood between the 

overflow car park and the willow hide corner area where the wood ends and the gorse starts, was 

replaced in 2007. The fence on the overflow car park was partially replaced in 2009. New 12ft 

gates have been installed in overflow car park 2009 and drive entrance 2006. Both kissing gates 

by Tarn end have been repaired and widened in 2009. 

Action 

Re-cut gorse as required 

Replant standard trees that have died in metal guards with native species suitable for this area. 

Tarn End – Sluice Wood Field 


The boundary next to Talkin Road is mainly stone wall with a section of post and wire fence. 

There is a new gateway in the bottom corner that was created in 2008. The other boundaries of 

this field include a hedge row planted in approx 1999 and a post and wire fence parallel to the 

Tarn ( installed after foot and mouth disease outbreak in late 2001). There is also a ditch know as 

Hell Beck. 

The area nearest Hell Beck on the eastern side of the field is significant for its wet grassland 

areas and subsequent vegetation. This area should be maintained. Hell Beck and its adjacent new 

and old hedges provide an important wildlife corridor in and out of the Tarn. It is thought that the 

otter uses this route. The hedge is growing well and will need to be maintained. 

The post and wire fence section bordering sluice wood was replaced in 2009. 

This field also contain the old sewerage system for the old Tarn end hotel. This area is fenced off 

with a post and wire fence to prevent sheep or human injury. 

Action 

Maintain hedgerow 

Hell Beck – Roman Wood 


Areas of post and wire fence in this area require some maintenance and longer term replacement. 

A shallow ditch runs along the eastern edge of this field running into Hell Beck. This grassland 

area adjacent also has a significant wet grassland area that should be maintained. The Southern 

24

oundary is a hedge that was planted in approx 2000. It has suffered however from rabbits and 

has some gaps that need planting up. 

Hell Beck itself should be better maintained with a rotational clearance of 50m sections every 2 

years to keep the watercourse clear from encroaching vegetation. There is space for this to be 

done mechanically if required. 

This field is suitable for possible woodland planting to link Sluice wood and Roman wood areas. 

Providing a more viable area of woodland for wildlife over time rather than the small islands that 

are there at present. This should be done on the back slope of this area initially to minimise 

visual intrusion. Any planting should avoid wet grassland areas leaving a buffer strip between 

this and the woodland. 

Action 

Rotational clearance of Hell Beck 50m every 2 years. 

Maintain hedgerow. 

Set up woodland planting scheme, with possible link with the woodland trust or AONB N. 

Pennines. 

Orchid Meadow 

This is located next to the car park and used to be an overflow parking area. However the area is 

now a species rich wildflower area with no vehicular access. Known particularly for its species 

of Orchid (northern marsh & common spotted), it is surrounded by mature trees giving it a 

protected feel. This area is occasionally used for mini-beast hunts with school groups. The area is 

given a hay cut annually in late summer and the cuttings removed where possible. The southern 

end which is also the wettest (there is a drain from the entrance drive that runs into this area) is 

richest in species with the northern end being dominated by thistle. The surrounding mature trees 

should be occasionally trimmed back on a rotational basis to prevent further encroachment or too 

much shading of the meadow. A cut path runs along the side of the field allowing public access 

to this area and a picnic table located on its edge for people to sit and enjoy this space. 

Action 

Annual hay cut. 

Trim back boundary trees if necessary to prevent encroachment. 

Path cut from gate every 3 weeks. 

Open Water 

The Tarn 

The word ‘Tarn’ is derived from the Old Norse ‘tjorn’, which was used to describe any small body of 

water. It means ‘a small lake’ or more poetically ‘a teardrop’. Tarn is a regional term used largely, 

but not exclusively in the Lake District, which along with many other local names, originated with 

the Viking invaders who settled in Cumbria in the tenth century. 

Tarns are a unique feature of Cumbria, contributing greatly to its beauty as well as being ecologically 

important. Cumbria has over 3,000 small water bodies, found from the rugged high fells to richer low 

lying agricultural land. The diversity in size, shape, altitude, depth and water chemistry means that 

many plants and animals find refuge and thrive in these habitats. They support a huge variety of life, 

from microscopic forms to large vascular plants and animals, including fish, amphibians and birds. 

Together, the small water bodies support two-thirds of all freshwater plants (at least 240 plant species 

are associated with Tarns in Cumbria) and animal species found in the county, and support more 

invertebrates and rare species than rivers. 

25

Talkin Tarn is a 65 acre (26 hectares) natural Tarn, glacial formed approx 10,000 years ago. It is 

fed by two above ground inlet streams and it is believed also some underground springs although 

there is little evidence to support this at present. A plan of water depths is located in the site 

office. Over time, work has been undertaken on a add hoc basis to encourage marginal 

vegetation. The biggest affect on this was the installation of a fence around the Tarn in 2002 to 

prevent livestock from grassing at the Tarn edges. The lack of subsequent poaching from 

livestock has allowed the vegetation to recover and spread. Some clumps of vegetation have 

been transplanted to speed up this process. In 2007 common reed was transplanted from Siddick 

Ponds in Workington with permission from Natural England and planted into wildlife bay. This 

has taken well and is now beginning to spread and the individual clumps join together. The reed 

has also had the effect of protecting the bank from the wave wash. The bank has then 

subsequently silted up and started to grow further vegetation. 

Talkin Tarn was surveyed as part of the Cumbria Tarns Project (2003-2009), initiated by 

Cumbria Wildlife Trust (CWT) and the Freshwater Biological Association (FBA) as part of 

CWT’s Community Action for Wildlife programme. Aquatic macrophytes in Tarns are 

indicators of the health not only of the waters themselves but also of their surrounding 

environment. The health of a freshwater body is directly related to the state of its catchment and 

this forms the basis for European legislation to protect freshwater systems, the Water Framework 

Directive (Directive 2000/60/EC). 

Canadian Pond Weed 

This weed was introduced from North America at the end of the 19th century and rapidly spread 

throughout the UK. It is a relatively common water plant in still waters in the UK. It can form 

dense banks of weed that will block waterways and can re-grow vegetatively from any small 

piece left after removal. 

This is a common sight on the Tarn and comes and goes each year in various quantities. It is an 

important food source for the wildfowl all year, but particularly in the winter when other food is 

scarce. It is disliked by human water users for getting in the way of paddles, propellers and 

rudders. The weed is only removed from areas urgently needing to be cleared for special events 

such as the large annual rowing regatta. After periods of strong wind and resulting wave action 

weed regularly washes up in the bays at the northern end of the Tarn. This can become unsightly 

and smelly. This is removed by JCB at least twice a year (usually late autumn to remove leaf 

drop at same time) and at other times by staff and volunteers. Ideally this weed should be 

removed from site to try and reduce the nutrient levels in the Tarn which are adding to the 

problems with blue green algae. Disturbing the weed through cutting and removal can break off 

many small plant parts that can then re-grow potentially exacerbating the problem. Weed can 

potentially be taken to Willowholme for adding to councils green waste pile. This is removed 

twice/year by an approved green waste disposal company for the purpose of composting. 

However this may involve double handling of weed and is not currently viable. 

Action 

Investigate methods for stock piling weed and transporting by approved contractor for 

composting purposes. 

26

Blue Green Algae 

Blue-green algae, (seen in photo to right) also known as 

Cyanobacteria, are a group of photosynthetic bacteria. Bluegreen 

algae are most often blue-green in colour, but can also be 

blue, green, reddish-purple, or brown. Blue-green algae 

generally grow in lakes, ponds, and slow-moving streams when 

the water is warm and enriched with nutrients like phosphorus 

or nitrogen. Nutrients, particularly phosphorus and nitrogen, can 

be carried into water bodies as a result of many human 

activities, including agriculture, discharge of untreated sewage, and use of phosphorus-based 

fertilizers and detergents. 

When environmental conditions are just right, blue-green algae can grow very quickly in 

number. Most species are buoyant and will float to the surface, where they form scum layers or 

floating mats. When this happens, we call this a "blue-green algae bloom. It is not always the 

same species that blooms in a given water body, and the dominant species present can change 

over the course of the season. 

Blue-green algal toxins are naturally produced chemical compounds that sometimes are 

produced inside the cells of certain species of blue-green algae. These chemicals are not 

produced all of the time and there is no easy way to tell when blue-green algae are producing 

them and when they are not. When the cells are broken open, the toxins may be released. 

Sometimes this occurs when the cells die off naturally and they break open as they sink and 

decay in a lake or pond. 

There are no quick or easy remedies for the control of blue-green algae once they appear in a 

lake or pond. Reducing the amount of nutrients that wash into our lakes and ponds will 

eventually reduce the frequency and intensity of blue-green algae blooms, but it may take a long 

time and a lot of community involvement to effectively change the nutrient concentrations in a 

water body. This is because there may still be large amounts of nutrients in the sediment at the 

bottom that may continue to serve as food for the blue-green algae. 

At Talkin Tarn there are regular blooms of blue green algae. A traffic light warning system is in 

place to let members of the public know when a bloom is present and its intensity. The algae has 

been tested during 2009 to identify species present. This has been carried out by the 

Environment Agency and also by Professor Brian Whitton from Durham University (an expert in 

this field) Some records are also present from previous years but it appears the blooms are 

becoming more frequent. A student from Newton Rigg, has set up a detailed monitoring system 

for the blue green algae to give us better data to assess the conditions. (2010) Sampling includes 

measurement of ph, water temperature, conductivity, turbidity, and identification of algae species 

through a microscope. The water was initially sampled twice/week from a set of 4 sampling 

points around the Tarn including one in the middle of the Tarn. This was however changed to 5 

sampling points once/week in Nov 2010 as not enough differences were seen between each week 

to warrant two samples/week. It was also felt that the sample from the middle of the Tarn was 

not significantly different from the other samples and thus was dropped. One additional sample 

area was added to give a better spread around the Tarn and allow for movement of the algae 

during different wind conditions. 

So far it has been found through the sampling that we have three species of blue green algae at 

the Tarn, Microcystis spp, Anobaena spp, and Gloeotrichia spp. The algae, has been found to 

boom and bust in cycles between the different species but with no particular pattern as to which 

27

species follows which. The lake has also been found to be slightly alkaline but with lots of 

fluctuation throughout the year. We currently have a full set of data from 4/1/10 – 21/11/10. Start 

and stop times for this year were related to the melting and re-freezing of the Tarn on these dates. 

Monitoring will restart in 2011 as soon as the Tarn melts from the current cold spell. It is 

planned to continue monitoring for the foreseeable future to build up a robust data set which can 

be shared and compared with other data sets nationally. Monitoring is carried out by our annual 

sandwich degree placement student as part of their development and training during their year 

working with staff at the Tarn. 

Aeration System 

This was installed in 2006 (first turned on 26/1/07) as part of the renovation works at the Tarn as 

a method towards managing the algal blooms. The Aeration system uses a series of 12 

compressors to pump compressed air into the Tarn. This is pumped along pipes laid on the 

bottom of the Tarn. It then exits via diffusers placed at points all over the Tarn (giving a 

bubbling effect on the waters surface) which can be seen from the shore on calm water days. 

Four main positive effects; 

1. De-stratifies the water, mixing up the thermal layers, this in turn increases the oxygen 

levels throughout the Tarn. Oxygen helps to lock in the Phosphorus within the Tarns 

sediments, which in turn helps to prevent growth of algae. 

2. Blue Green Algae in particular is very buoyant, thus vigorous mixing of the water helps 

to stop it rising to the surface and forming scums/blooms. Hence the large number of 

diffusers in the Tarn. 

3. Also forcing the algae into the deeper darker waters prevents it from carrying out 

photosynthesis (for which light is needed) and thus blooming. 

4. Extra oxygen throughout the water levels also has a positive effect for other life in the 

Tarn such as the fish and invertebrates, allowing them to use the deeper areas of the Tarn 

that previously didn’t have enough oxygen within them. 

Action 

Write catchment management plan including a water sampling system to monitor conditions and 

provide evidence towards prescribing potential action within the catchment to reduce nutrient 

levels in the Tarn long term (particularly phosphates) 

Continue regular monitoring system for algal blooms 

Share algae data where possible 

Turn aeration system off Nov-March but put on if Tarn freezes over to keep water pools open for 

birds. 

Revetment 

The Tarn edges are gradually slumping into the Tarn by means of a gradual process of bank 

undercutting by wave action. This is most noticeable on the side where the prevalent wind 

washes the waves up between the Alex Boathouse and the sandy bay. This is also the most used 

bank side from a water sports perspective. 

Traditionally areas of the Tarn have had some protection from railway sleepers installed on the 

bank sides however while these help they do not prevent bank from being washed out underneath 

28

them. The undercutting was evidenced clearly when a ditch was dug to the Alex Boathouse in 

2006 to allow the electricity cable to be laid. Although the ditch was over 2 metres back from the 

shore edge on the far side of the Tarn path. The whole edge of the Tarn water quickly 

discoloured due to the disturbance, highlighting the issue and showing that water was 

reaching/lapping over 2 meters under the path. 

Money was sourced from the Landfill tax to try and stop the situation getting any worse. A grant 

of £50,000 allowed revetment to be installed in front of the bank side partly in the form of 

gabion baskets between the Alex boat-house almost up to the play area. From then on a recycled 

plastic piling was driven into the Tarn bed. This piling enabled us to back fill with concrete and 

subsequently attach a series of boat launching platforms. (This would not have been possible 

with the gabions as they had nothing to attach into) As part of this same project the Tarn edge 

footpath was resurfaced for its whole length and an area of wildlife bay was planted with 

transplanted common reed (spring 2007). The reed will need to be managed over time as it 

spreads. It will provide good protection for the banks and also nesting areas for birds. Some 

transplantation could happen in early years to encourage its spread. 

An area of land was reclaimed in sandy bay by installing a new corner of railway sleepers and 

then backfilling with stone and topped with 20mm to dust. This although a visually hard finish, 

enabled weed to be removed from this area by JCB without constant damage and removal of the 

bank. In this bay other experiments have taken place with woven sections of willow and willow 

posts to break up the wave action and to protect the bank. These are largely proving to be 

successful and allowing the bank to re-vegetate behind them. 

Action 

Continue to explore options for natural solutions to bank sides in less hard ware areas. 

Continued maintenance and expansion of the willow revetment. 

Transplantation of reed as required to encourage expansion within wildlife bay. 

Car Park Pond 

This naturally wet area was created as a pond in 1999. It has a small pond dipping platform. 

Although the water is very peaty in colour and it often dries out during the summer months. This 

is not a problem ecologically as seasonal wet areas are very good for wildlife but it does make it 

difficult for guaranteed pond dipping sessions. However there is currently little demand for these 

and with continuing financial pressures it is unlikely that ranger led school sessions will continue 

to run in the future. 

A path leads from the car park to the pond. 

The wet area around the pond has value as an area with little human disturbance, which should 

be continued. It contains an old reptile refuge built as a school project. The grass/scrub area has 

value as a wet area in times of high rainfall containing species able to adapt to damp conditions. 

Alder trees in this area need to be cut back and prevented from encroaching this area, as the 

sheltered, sunny nature of this bank has importance for reptiles and insects. 

Action 

Maintain wet land area primarily for wildlife with no encouragement of access beyond the pond. 

Regular Alder cutting back 

Clean out pond annually as necessary 

29

Watercourses 

Outflow 

Hell Beck runs out through the north eastern side of the Tarn and joins the River Gelt further 

downstream. A small sluice gate is operated on this stream but has only minimal effects when 

water left is high enough. The stream regularly runs dry in the summer months if the Tarn level 

is low from evaporation and lack of rain. The aim of raising the water level if possible at times 

(by preventing loss out of the stream) is to increase water depths for the boat launching areas. At 

other times lower water levels can be encouraged by opening the sluice gate. This could be to 

help encourage marginal vegetation growth which might other wise become swamped. It also 

helps to prevent as much bank erosion. At this time it is not deemed necessary for more control 

of the water levels. Although this may need to be reviewed in the future depending on rainfall 

levels. 

Hell beck is regularly cleared of debris and vegetation to keep it open. This is done in stages with 

a different section being cleared each year currently by hand but there is the potential to clear 

sections by mechanical means on rotation such as a 50m stretch each year. Where Hell Beck 

leaves sluice wood it is fenced on one side until it meets the ditch on the boundary. From here it 

is only fenced on the far side which forms the neighbours boundary. 

Inflow 

The banks of the inlet at wildlife bay, that drains from Farlam Meadow is an important area for 

northern marsh orchid with over 25 spikes counted in 2009. 

The second inlet comes in from neighbouring farmland and enters near the bird hide. 

Action 

Maintain sluice gate in current basic working condition 

Continue rotational clearing of hell beck to keep watercourse open 

Clear inlet streams as required. 

Marsh & Wet Areas 

Farlam meadow contains the largest wet grass area, holding water year round. A causeway was 

built over part of this area to prevent damage from the public footpath that runs across it. 

A valuable wetland vegetation community has developed and this status should be maintained. 

The drier sections of this meadow are grazed under licence by a neighbouring farmer. Other wet 

areas have developed by the boundary ditch that runs from level with Roman wood along 2 field 

lengths until it reaches the road to Talkin village. These valuable wet areas are in a quiet area of 

the Tarn. The main threat is from trampling from the sheep that graze these fields and require 

access to the water. 

Species Management 

Species lists for Flora, Fauna, Fungi, Odonata, Butterflies, Fish are kept in the site office. Copies 

of all other surveys undertaken are also kept in the site office. 

Mammals 

Talkin Tarn has small range of fauna, none of which are currently managed specifically for. The 

badger set is however purposely left as an area of no intervention and public access is not 

encouraged. The most red squirrels seen at any one time is 6 during 2009. Grey squirrels have 

regularly been seen passing through the area and are being managed as necessary. A bat survey 

30

was carried out in 2009 on behalf of the County Council as part of the sale of Tarn End Hotel. 

Species roosting there will use the Tarn as a feeding point. 

Action 

Carry out survey works to establish status of species breeding and using the site 

Flora/Vegetation 

The site contains several species of orchid, there are good numbers of common spotted and 

northern marsh orchids. Principly in the orchid meadow and by the farlam inflow stream. Three 

butterfly orchids were also found in July 2008. They did not reappear 

in 2009, but 9 were found in summer 2010 close t farlam 

meadow gate with a noticable increased spread (7 on left and 2 on 

right) The 2nd one on the right was 18 fence posts (from the gate) 

back along towards the wind turbine, roughly in the middle of the 

strip of grassland. 

A population of narrow-leaved (sword- leaved) helleborine (photo to left) occurs within areas of 

woodland on the site. This plant has been declining throughout its range in the UK and is now 

very scarce. The population at the park is the third largest in the country, and it is therefore a 

valuable biological resource. The plant is fairly longlived, seems to require optimum conditions 

for flowering, and has a complex relationship with mycorrhizal fungi. The plants are surveyed 

annually (surveys stored in site office). The population has declined over the earlier years of the 

last decade and remains at a lower level. There is little knowledge on the exact requirements of 

this plant and thus management for it is very difficult. Plantlife have been consulted on 

approprite management methods. Blockages to paths to reduce foot traffic were attempted in 

2009 but these were ripped out by the public on many occassions. In 2010 a more substantial 

fence was put up to stop trampling to the larger colony as a trial. Other areas were left unfenced 

for comparison. The public were kept informed of this process and information signs have been 

put on the fence explaining its presence. The fence blocks a stretch of footpath that had become 

dangerous and eroded. A new set of steps was constructed at this time to enable an alternative 

route. 

It has been suggested that strimming of areas around the colonies to a height of about 5cm to 

increase germination areas should happen in the winter months before the end of March 

annually. All areas will continue to be monitored annually for new plants. 

Other species of note are the northern bilberry in Roman wood area, now fenced to protect it 

from trampling. The area of fencing was extended in 2010 as it had been found to spread and 

needed room to grow further. There is also dawf willow near the car park pond. Three nerved 

sandwort was found in the car park banks after excavation work to extend the car park. 

Obviously enjoying the very sandy conditions. Six stamened waterwort is found in the Tarn 

shallows. 

Action 

Experiment with reducing vegetation in helloborine colony areas during the winter, to be 

complete by end of March annually 

Continue to survey annually, results to be shared with Plantlife 

Monitor northern bilberry growth in Roman wood. 

Invasive Species 

Some recognised potentially invasive species are present on site. These are 

31

Ragwort – this is in fairly low quantities found in grassland areas and is pulled by hand each year 

before seeding in July 

Rosebay Willowherb- found mainly but not exclusively around the Tarn edge, campsite area & 

roman wood. Pulled by hand each year before seeding. 

Canadian Pond weed – found growing in Tarn. Works carried out in past to mechanically 

remove have been largely unsuccessful causing spreading of weed in longer term. (dealt with in 

more detail under Open Water section) 

Blue Green Algae – found in the Tarn, see section under Open Water for details 

Grey Squirrels – passing regularly through the Tarn Trapping began in 2010 with assistance 

from Brampton Red Squirrel Group. 

Action 

Remove invasive species such as Ragwort and Rosebay Willowherb 

Carry out NVC survey’s to obtain baseline data for meadows 

Trap grey squirrels periodically depending on number of sightings 

Fungi 

The site has an impressive array of fungi and guided walks have often been held to look at these. 

Two groups visited the site to study these in 2010 and records from these collections were added 

to the species records. 

Action 

Update species records 

Fish 

The site is not currently stocked with fish and species present have been added over the years. 

The main species are Pike and Perch with eels also present. Evidence is from Fish catches by 

anglers and fish remains found around the Tarn. 

Beetle 

Records have been found from the 1980’s (Tullie House) indicating that the Tarn is home to a 

rare (red data book 3) beetle (Macroplea appendiculata). A reed beetle whose larvae feed on the 

roots of water plants, mainly on alternate-flowered milfoil and fennel-leaved pondweed. It is one 

of the few beetles that spends’ its complete life cycle underwater. It occurs in less than fifteen 

10km tetrads in the UK. It was re-found at Talkin Tarn by a German professor in the early 

2000,s but not formally recorded.(record from member of staff) Tullie House records show 

approx a hundred species recorded at Talkin Tarn, many of which are beetles recorded during the 

early 1900’s. 

Butterflies/Moths (Lepidoptra) 

There are 8 species of butterfly regularly seen at Talkin Tarn, mainly around the wildflower 

areas. Small Copper’s tend to be seen around the Tarn edge. 

A moth catching evening was held at Talkin Tarn on 21 st Aug 09. 

Small Copper Butterfly 

Action 

Gather data on previous moth surveys and establish species 

list 

Dragonflies/Damselflies (Odonata) 

The common blue damselfly is used as the symbol of Talkin 

Tarn due to the sheer number of them that emerge at the Tarn 

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Sustainable Management Operations 

each summer. The damselfly is used as the site Logo which 

is used on marketing and uniform alongside the Carlisle 

City Council logo. 

Talkin Tarn aims to Promote the use of Renewable Energy Sources through setting a good 

example 

As a key site it helped the council gain Gold award from Cumbria Business Environmental 

Network (CBEN) in 2009. 

Energy Efficiency 

The site has encompassed a wide variety of energy saving and energy efficient systems into the 

redevelopment of the Tarn buildings. Within the buildings the following technologies are now 

used. 

• Air source heat pumps (Education Cabin & Toilet Block) 

• Water source heat pumps (Alex Boathouse) 

• Under floor heating (Education Cabin & Toilet Block) 

• Intelligent lighting (Education Cabin & Toilet Block) 

• Intelligent taps and urinals (Education Cabin & Toilet Block) 

• Wind turbine (Bird Hide) 

• Photo voltaic cells (Site Office) 

• Herdwick sheep’s fleece insulation (Education Cabin & Toilet Block) 

• Rainwater flushing toilets (Education Cabin & Toilet Block) 

• Klargester (covers all toilets and waste water) 

• Energy saving light bulbs (All buildings) 

• Energy saving plugs on older models of fridges & freezers 

(Tearoom) 

• Wood burning stove (Tearoom) 

The site comes under Carlisle City Councils Environmental Policy Statement, and its Carbon 

Management Plan 

Carlisle City Council has set an aspirational target of reducing carbon emissions from its 

buildings, street lighting and transport related functions by 25% by April 2013 against its 

2007/08 baseline of 6,306 tonnes of CO2 

The site has no vehicle apart from a mini tractor. All petrol or diesel driven machinery is 

serviced annually and repaired as required by a trained member of City Council staff. An 

inventory of equipment is kept in the site office. Current research (Jan 2011) is happening into 

the viability of a wood burner stove with back boiler to heat the site office and workshop. This 

33

will replace four in-efficient 2kw electric fan heaters. The tearooms bottled gas supply is due to 

be replaced early in 2011 with a propane gas tank. This will require approx once/month fill up 

instead of weekly delivery of bottles. It will also make a financial saving. 

Peat Use 

The only peat used is present in the hanging baskets that are brought in each year. These are 

produced by the Green Spaces team and contain 25% peat reduced. 

Waste & Recycling 

The site has two waste bins for general waste which are emptied once/fortnight. The tearoom 

produces the most waste in the form of cardboard which is recycled via a commercial recycling 

bin, which is emptied as required. Previously a full set of recycling bins was located in the site 

car park but these were removed when a new household waste recycling centre was opened in 

Brampton. This has eliminated problems previously with rubbish and fly tipping in this area. 

Food waste can not currently be composted due to the volume produced and associated 

environmental health issues that are likely to arise from this. 

Green waste where possible, is kept on site forming habitat piles in appropriate locations. Fallen 

timber is cut up and used in the wood burning stove in the tearoom or smaller branches are 

chipped and used as path surfacing in wet areas of the woodland. Occasional appropriate fallen 

timber is used to make structures on site such as the memorial benches or by special permission 

taken for use by local crafts people. General waste is not separated and recycled as this is mixed 

with dog waste. 

Tearoom Waste 

Efforts have been made to reduce the amount of waste produced through taking consideration 

over the products sold with in the tearoom and particularly the takeaway area. For example duck 

food now uses recycled milk cartons rather than bought in bags. The ice cream supplier was 

changed to a local supplier of scooped ice cream which has completely eliminated lolly wrapper 

waste and lolly pop sticks. Only sweets without individually wrapped sweets are sold. For 

example a pack of jelly tots would be preferred over a bag of wrapped toffees. The Councils 

sustainable procurement policy guides on purchasing of low energy equipment. Consideration is 

also given to using local suppliers and products to reduce food miles. Stock levels are kept as 

low as possible to reduce wastage and the menu considers the volume of products needed to 

support it. 

Office Waste 

Ink cartridges are recycled through the Councils internal scheme and paper is bought under the 

councils system for bulk buying of recycled paper. Site electricity and water usage is monitored 

by the council. Monitoring of this has led to decisions such as the changing from bottled gas to a 

larger gas tank. 

Under the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 Enforcement officers from Carlisle 

City Council can issue a minimum £50 fine to people who drop litter, fly-tip, spray graffiti, flypost, 

distribute flyers or leaflets, or fail to clean up their dog’s mess. 

Action 

Carry out an energy audit 

Install new energy efficient boiler in tearoom 

34

Pesticide Policy 

‘No pesticides are used on site unless there is no alternative non-chemical method of control, and 

the non-use would cause more danger to public or wildlife than the use of. No pesticides have 

been used on site in the last 5 years. 

Water Use 

The toilet block and education cabin both have rainwater harvesting systems for use of rainwater 

for flushing toilets. Waste water goes through the Klargester system. There is a grease trap 

between the tearoom and the Klargester. This is cleaned out twice/year or as necessary. The only 

watering is of the hanging baskets during the summer. 

Action 

Install a rainwater butt for water collection for basket watering 

35

Education 

36

Talkin Tarn is an ideal setting for environmental education programmes and has a variety of 

facilities to enhance this. Schools regularly visit the site to carry out learning in a formal and 

informal manner as part of self led or ranger led programmes. The words ‘school’ and ‘students’ 

is used regularly in this section but also refers to groups such as youth groups & scout & guide 

association groups. Schools can also borrow equipment and resources from the site on request to 

enhance their self led visits. 

Currently schools visit mainly during the summer term (May, June & July) 

Education Cabin 

The log cabin provides a focal point for environmental education at the site. It is available for 

self led groups to hire as their base for the day, helping make even a rainy day a good experience 

for the children. It can take a maximum of 45 people. As well 

as a large hall area containing tables and chairs, projector 

screen and dry wipe board. 

There is a small kitchen area so groups can prepare their own 

snacks and hot drinks. There are also 2 fully accessible 

toilets. The cabin itself is accessible with a ramp system 

leading up to it from the disabled parking area. Regular 

parking is available near the cabin. If ranger led activities are 

booked (see education programmes) then the cabin comes as 

part of the package for the day. 

A record of usage of the site by schools is kept in the site office. 

Orienteering Course 

This permanent course was set up by Border liners orienteering club and is checked and updated 

by them annually. A set of up to date maps are kept in the site office for use by visiting groups. 

Members of the public can also use the course, and maps and information are available for 

purchase from the tearoom & gift shop. The course starts from the front of the changing rooms. 

Action 

Continue to work with Border liners to maintain and update the course and encourage its use. 

Marked Trails 

There are 3 marked trails, installed in 2008. These are marked by wooden posts with coloured 

bands on them. 

difficult to read. 

Blue Trail -1.5km -30mins 

Green Trail -2.5km -40mins 

Red Trail -3.5km -1hr 

The trails all start from the bottom end of the car park, 

which is marked with an information board indicating the 

length (in distance and approx walking time) and colour of 

the trails. There is no map to accompany these trails. The 

idea being to get away from maps, which many people find 

Action 

Ensure areas of increased wear on paths as a result of these trails is monitored and dealt with as 

required. 

37

Environmental Education Programmes 

An independent consultant was brought in during 2007/8 to create a new pack of environmental 

education programmes that could be offered to schools wanting to visit the site. All programmes 

were linked to National Curriculum targets and made to be as flexible as possible to meet 

individual teacher’s requirement. The programmes were trialled during 2008 season and 

adjustments made where necessary. The packs were sent out to over 60 primary, junior and 

nursery schools in a radius of approx 30 miles of the site during June 08. Additional copies are 

held in the site office and are sent out as requested free of charge. An e-copy is also held on site 

computer files and available to download off the website. 

Number of days of school visits has gradually risen since 

then. In 07/08 there were 6 days of ranger led school 

visits, in 08/09 there were 13, in 09/10 there were 19. 

Currently 14.5 for 10/11 up to Jan 2011. Currently it is 

being considered whether to stop running ranger led 

school visits due to financial and time restraints on staff. 

If this happens schools will still be able to use the site for 

self led programmes and the schools Moodle (see 

separate paragraph) site will continue. 

Action 

Encourage use of the site all year round. 

Numeracy Trail 

This trail was created as a separate information pack for teachers in a similar format to the 

education pack. This pack supports teachers to make the best use of a trail around part of the site 

that has a series of activity points, all with a numeracy emphasis. Some points have special 

equipment constructed and some use natural items at that point such as trees for measuring 

height and diameter. This pack is available to purchase from the site office. The trail itself is 

designed to be self led by the teachers. Teachers should buy the pack and a pre-visit is 

recommended. The trail takes a full day to complete, but it is recommended that teachers select 

parts of the trail they wish to complete and combine this with other activities at the site, to lessen 

the intensity of the day. 

Action 

Although an initial press launch was carried out further work needs to be carried out to complete 

sections of the trail and to market this resource to schools more directly. Try and involve 

numeracy co-ordinator at Cumbria County Council. 

Moodle 

This is an interactive website for schools which has 

been developed by the Tarn Supervisor during 2010 in 

conjunction with Cumbria County Council. This CPLE 

(Country Park Learning Platform) is unique in 

Cumbria as it is a Learning Area shared across a 

significant number of schools designed to unable 

collaborative studies, real-time observations and crossschool 

data collection. Six schools have a ‘whole 

school presence’ and another two are in the process of 

joining. The front page is shown below and the site can 

be accessed fully only by schools who have signed up 

to it. This is a free service to the schools. As a visitor 

38

you can access limited pages. http://vle.talkintarn.cleo.net.uk/ 

Visitor log-in/password is: visitor/visitor 

Rock Detectives 

Talkin Tarn has been a base for a Rock Detectives club since 2009, this was previously run by 

the former ECCP. Rock Detectives are clubs for children aged 6 to 12 (under 8's must be 

accompanied by an adult). There are currently 72 signed up members. There are three clubs 

across the North Pennines where children can get involved in 

activities from fossil hunts, games and crafts, to video animation 

and visits to 'hands-on' attractions - all with a rocky theme! 

Membership costs £1 then all the events are free. Members 

receive a Rock Detectives T-shirt and bag to start their Rock 

Detectives kit. A programme of six activities are drawn up 

annually by Talkin Tarn staff and agreed with the North 

Pennines AONB. An events programme is then distributed to all 

members. 

Rock Detectives is part of the AONB Partnership's Rockworks project, and is supported by the 

Heritage Lottery Fund, Natural England and LEADER +. Rock Detectives is also part of the 

AONB Partnership's contribution to a transnational project with nine partner European 

Geoparks, with LEADER + and other funding. The AONB Partnership is taking the lead on 

developing clubs of this kind and sharing with colleagues across Europe the experiences of the 

AONB Staff Unit, the group leaders and the participants to enable this work to spread to other 

Geoparks. The future of this club however, is currently under threat due to lack of funding. (Jan 

2011) 

Geocaches 

Geocaches are part of a worldwide treasure hunt game, designed specifically for the use of hand 

held GPS’s A website www.geocaching.co.uk gives 10 fig grid references and clues for the 

locations of buried/hidden geocaches all over the world. You can search by area and find ones 

close by. Treasure can vary widely but is generally a watertight container with a book for 

logging your find and various trinkets which can be swapped. Some trinkets have missions they 

you may wish to help complete, such as a toy car with an aim of travelling from Lands End to 

John o’ Groats from one geocache to the next. Talkin Tarn contains two geocaches. The rule 

with geocaches is that whoever installs them must have permission of the landowner and must 

take the responsibility of maintaining the cache. 

Action 

Check the caches are present and clean out boxes annually 

Work Experience Placements 

Traditionally this has been mid GCSE students from local secondary schools spending 1 – 2 

weeks at the site working with the staff. The idea being to gain an insight into working life 

generally and the work of the site staff. This however is very time consuming for staff as 

students are untrained and need constant supervision. As the site only has one outdoor 

supervisor/ranger this all falls on one person. It is suggested to take one student per year on this 

arrangement. Currently a new system has been set up where students are shared between 

different green spaces departments spending only 1 or 2 days at any one site. This is better for 

everyone including the student. There are however opportunities to develop work experience 

placements from Universities and colleges running environmental degrees. These students have a 

39

keener interest in the work, are older and more responsible and already have a good background 

knowledge in environmental work. Longer term sandwich degree placements (up to 1 year) are 

much more valuable for students, staff and the site. Students can be provided with more formal 

training and take a larger role in site activities. They can also be given individual projects and do 

not require constant supervision. We are currently in our 2 nd year of offering year long 

placements. 2009 was a student from Harper Adams University College and 2010 is a student 

from Bangor University. In 2010 a bursary of £300/month has been agreed to help the student 

(who is otherwise unpaid) pay for accommodation costs locally. 

Currently all placement students follow a standard application process with a potential for short 

listing for interview and may or may not be offered a placement as a result of this. 

Some students come to the site requesting research projects, which require varying levels of 

input from site staff. These projects should generally be encouraged but assessed on an 

individual basis. Copies of any data gathered should always be provided to the site at the end of 

the project. 

Action 

Investigate further longer term placements. 

Community Programmes 

Friends of Talkin Tarn 

This group was in the pipeline for several years but no firm decision was made on how the group 

would be organised and what its purpose would be apart from community involvement in the 

site. Then a set of proposed aims of this group were drawn up by the site manager in 2008 and 

were posted for consultation on site notice boards and in the newspaper. No feedback was 

received. 

A further review of the friends group proposal was made in May 2009 with the start of parking 

charges. The group was launched in June 2009 via a press call. Members were invited to join up. 

Each member receives a membership card and a free site newsletter 4 times/year. It is likely that 

over time members may receive certain benefits such as tearoom discounts or special offers. It 

may develop in other ways also, but there are no firm plans as yet and will be dependant on 

members and their input over time. It is free to join. 

Friends Of Newsletter 

The newsletter was started in May 09 with the launch of the Friends Of group. A separate 

Wildlife Report is also produced every 2 months by the Tarn Supervisor this is published in the 

Brampton BIG magazine (delivered free to all houses in Brampton) and displayed on the site. 

The larger friends of newsletter, now incorporates this and in addition has site management 

news, events and articles as well as wildlife information. It is produced on publisher in full 

colour and printed internally by the council print room. 

Action 

Create Newsletter 4 times/year and keep membership database up to date. 

Encourage further development friends of group over time. 

Volunteers 

Currently there are wide range of volunteers who regularly contribute towards the sites 

maintenance and conservation. 834 volunteer hours have been worked at the Tarn from April 

2010 to Jan 2011. There are regular enquiries from volunteers who wish to work at the site. The 

current arrangements have been built up over a number of years and are sustainable from a 

40

volume of work available and the level of staffing to supervise them. Additional groups would 

currently be difficult to take on unless one of the current groups discontinued or additional staff 

members were taken on. 

- Caldew School (winter term only,1 morning/week) 12 students attend working on 

projects for their NVQ in practical environmental skills 

- Garden Links (every Tuesday & Thursday) 1 person with learning difficulties working on 

general site maintenance tasks, unsupported. 

- Weekend Volunteers, 2 Sundays/month 

working on site maintenance and 

conservation projects. 

- Caldew school special needs group, 3 

students Thursday mornings 2hrs. 

- Richard Rose school 6 students Monday 

afternoons 1hr 

- 1 person Tarn bird survey monthly 

Volunteer duties and projects are programmed by 

the Tarn Supervisor on agreement with the Country 

Park Manager. All volunteers are supervised by a 

member of staff. Individual volunteers are required to fill out an application form and sign a 

volunteer agreement. Council policy now stipulates that all volunteers must also undergo a 

Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check, due to the likelihood of them coming into contact with 

children during their work at the Tarn. Schools or groups regularly volunteering at the Tarn must 

have the head teacher or similar position sign a form to state that the teachers who work with the 

children all have had an up to date CRB check carried out. (i.e. within last 3 years) A volunteer 

forum is held approx every 3 months to provide an opportunity for the different volunteer groups 

to get together and feedback to staff on present and future projects and also act as an opportunity 

for learning through presentations. A volunteer Christmas meal is held annually. 

Long term regular placements such as Garden Links and our student placement both receive 

training courses as a regular staff member at the Tarn. They receive training and certification in 

manual handling, first aid, pedestrian mowers and trimmers. Depending on need and ability 

training has also been provided in tractor driving and chainsaw use. Our current Garden Links 

placement is also being guided through an ASDAN qualification. 

Action 

Continue with current situation. Review annually effectiveness of groups and management of 

these. 

Investigate positive media opportunities for the volunteer groups. (e.g. articles in site newsletter) 

Record volunteer person hours annually and set targets 

Marketing 

In 2010 adverts were placed in the following publications; 

Eden & The Pennines Bedroom Browser 

Carlisle & Hadrian’s Wall Country Holiday & Short Breaks Guide 

Coach Drivers Handbook 

There is difficulty in assessing success of these adverts. However there has been no notable 

increase in use of the site by coaches so this advert will not be placed again in 2011. 

41

Marketing Vision 

“Maintaining site financial turnover to a sustainable level, with inward investment by promoting 

the regular year round use of the wide-ranging, facilities, events, and activities at Talkin Tarn.” 

See Marketing Strategy document for full strategy, kept in site office. 

Visitor Surveys 

Carried out in June 2005 (by Carlisle City Council staff) and Aug 2008 (by independent 

company) Copies of both surveys are stored in site office. Accurate data can now also be 

collected from the parking machines. Information from the parking machine data shows us that 

the busiest months on site in 2010 were August, April and June, the quietest months were, 

November, December and February. The busiest days of the week are Sundays and Saturdays. 

The highest average number of cars using the car park in 2010 was on Sundays in August with 

an average of 240 cars. From this we can start to build a more accurate figure of visitor numbers 

to the Tarn. Using a standard multiplier obtained from the Department for Transport (1.6 

people/car on standard journeys & 2.2 people /car on day trips and hols) Figures for each month 

are divided up by the number of days /month. These days are divided into weekend and school 

hol days which are then multiplied by 2.2 and all other weekdays are multiplied by 1.6. To this 

are added the exact figures for number of minibuses (16/minibus) and coaches (52/coach) Also 

added were a estimate at 5people/day walking to the Tarn and 20 cars/day out of parking 

charging hours. These estimates are probably under rather than over estimates. This gives us a 

visitor figure of 66,316 visitors for 2010. 

Results from the survey in 2008 highlighted the high use of the site from people visiting on day 

trips from the north east of England. Further marketing has been targeted in these areas through 

bedroom browsers and adverts such as the Tynedale Visitors guide & Newcastle girl guides 

annual report (used in 08/09). 

Action 

Analyse survey results 

Continue to gather car parking meter data annually 

Site Logo 

Version 3 designed in 2007 based on previous design but enhancing the quality and simplifying 

the design. This logo was then used on all new site uniforms and for site correspondence and 

marketing purposes. 

Site Leaflet 

This has had at least 3 versions over the last 20 years. The current version was printed in 2008. 

The design was intended to match the site folders (see below) and incorporate the site logo. This 

leaflet has more of an information slant rather than interpretation. This was due to requirements 

at the time. 

Action 

Distribute to Tourist Information Centres in surrounding area. 

Update/reprint as necessary (last reprinted 2010) 

Site Folders 

Also developed in 2008, these are used for sending out site 

information, friends of group membership packs and for use in the 

education cabin. These help to give information a more 

professional look with a house style. 

42

Action 

Update/reprint as necessary 

Tearoom Table-Top Folders 

These A5 sized folders were introduced to collate the many advertising leaflets that were being 

put on the tables. It keeps them neat and clean and everyone reads them. Extra copies can be 

slotted in to allow people to take leaflets away. Advertising is for site facilities or site based 

events only. It also allows passing on of information about site management and wildlife 

information. 

Press Releases 

Press releases to be issued for all Tarn events by Carlisle City Council’s Communications Team. 

Good news stories to also be sent through for consideration for press release. 

Interpretation 

Currently there is very little site interpretation. Recently the old panels have been replaced with 

new up to date versions. An annotated site map with general site information is located on a new 

notice board in the car park. One panel is located on a stone plinth by the Alex Boathouse. This 

contains information on the sites history and legend. The other panel is located in a wooden 

rustic frame on the front of the changing rooms containing information on the sites wildlife. 

There is also an AONB information panel which is incorporated into the notice board in the car 

park. There is a bird panel next to the Bird & squirrel feeding area. (However this is more 

information than interpretation) There is great potential for further site interpretation. The bird & 

squirrel feeding area is one example with potential for web cams and live linkups to a screen in 

the nearby tearoom. (Quote received for this work and grant applied for in Nov 2010) The Alex 

boathouse is a building that has great potential to be used for interpretation displays and well 

located at the entrance. The Farlam Boathouse is known as the Bird Observatory and currently 

contains 6 large framed bird identification posters, but has potential for interpretive 

development. 

The site has an up to date site leaflet developed in 2008. Leaflets are distributed via a dispenser 

box on the notice board in the car park. There are also distributed to Tourist Information Centres 

locally. 

The site in general could easily absorb on-site interpretation. There needs to be a separate plan to 

be drawn up for this. However there would need to be some consultation work to explain the 

importance of environmental interpretation for all visitors and put forward suggestions for ways 

to achieve this. Interpretation themes could include an oral history project to gather stories from 

the past at Talkin Tarn, photographic exhibitions of images at the Tarn, wildlife at the Tarn and 

geology and landscape of the Tarn and surrounding area and sustainable energy use at the Tarn. 

Action 

Long term - Write an interpretation plan for the site. 

Distribute site leaflets to TIC’s further a field in Northumberland. 

Continue to update and develop the Moodle site 

43

Bird/Squirrel Feeding area 

This was developed in early 2007. Further development was carried out by family and friends as 

part of a memorial project in remembrance of Pauline Kukuc. New 

panels for the front of the screen were installed in Sept.2009 

Action 

Feed daily 

Install live link with flat screen in tearoom 

Install webcam 

Information Points 

There are two covered information boards for the site. One is located on the front of the 

changing rooms and one in the main car park. The one on 

the changing rooms was installed in 2008 and is used to 

display site information and events. The one in the car park 

was installed in November 2009. Old notice boards were 

removed from the Tarn end hotel entrance and the car park 

during 2008 as these had become old and tatty looking. 

A further small notice board is located in the tearoom and 

information is also displayed in table top folders in the 

tearoom. 

A policy was required to be implemented for all information 

points as there was an issue with large volumes of random 

inappropriate items being displayed on them. It was decided by the park manager that only 

events being held at the Tarn or Carlisle City Council related items should be publicised at the 

Tarn. As these items alone already fill up the notice boards. Any local wildlife related posters 

would be at the discretion of the site manager and dependent on space available. 

Two chalkboards are also used on the site office to inform visitors of recent wildlife sightings 

around the Tarn and weather conditions. These are updated weekly by site staff. 

A dry wipe board is attached to the front of the takeaway area front doors. This is mainly used to 

keep the public up to date on any up and coming events or tearoom information. 

Action 

Keep notice boards clean and up to date 

Signage 

Entrance Sign 

This was installed by the roadside to inform visitors and potential visitors of the facilities 

available at the Tarn. It was installed before Carlisle City Council took over ownership of the 

site. It was designed to be hard wearing and adaptable to the seasons allowing adjustments of 

opening times. It is also double sided. The sign itself has worn reasonably well but the adjustable 

sections have been kicked and bent and are showing wear. Logos have also had to be updated 

when the Tarn changed ownership. 

Action 

Replace this sign with a new more eco friendly looking welcome sign with less overwhelming 

quantity of information on it. 

44

Welcome Signs 

There are wooden, Welcome to Talkin Tarn signs at all the main entrances to the site. 

Both the car park entrances, footpath from Brampton junction, footpath from Farlam village and 

by the Tarn end hotel. 

Action 

These need removing and/or refurbishing over the next couple of years as they are looking worn 

and old. 

Directional Signs 

On-site – these were installed new in 2007 with a mixture of routed finger posts and ladder 

boards. These direct people around the Tarn path and also to all the main buildings and facilities 

on the site. 

Road – brown tourism signs direct motorists from Brampton Village at both ends (east & west) 

and from the A69 roundabout. There is also one sign on the A69 west bound just before the 

Brampton roundabout. 

Weather Station 

This was installed in 2008 as a result of a water sports incident on the Tarn. It was felt that a 

better way of assessing the weather conditions was required for water sports users and the site 

staff. The weather station is housed in the site office and provides data on wind speed and 

direction, indoor & outdoor temperature, rainfall and humidity levels. By monitoring weather 

data against visible conditions on rough weather days a picture can be built up of conditions at 

the Tarn. This can be used to create cut off conditions for the different types of water sports. This 

can then be related to the public through the flag warning system, which was installed at the 

same time. Green means conditions are good for use, Amber means use at your own risk, Red 

means do not go on the water. 

45

Recreation 

46

Facilities 

Dog Bins/Litter Bins 

In 2006 there were 3 large concrete bins with metal cages inside, 2 plastic Walls (ice cream) 

dustbins by the tearoom and 3 post mounted bins around the Tarn path. 

The bins were all in a poor state of repair, the concrete bins were too large and difficult and 

messy to empty. The Walls bin was able to be removed when the ice cream supplier was 

changed for the site, moving away from wrapped ice cream, to cones, which caused considerably 

less litter which of course then attracted less wasps. 

The 3 Tarn path bins which had always been difficult to empty and smelly were replaced and an 

extra one added then positions relocated during 2008. This provided a larger bin with a different 

system for emptying. It made bin emptying (mostly dog poo) an easier and less messy process. 

Relocating the bins was an experiment based on observations of dog walkers 

and dog toileting habits. It was noticed that most dog walker’s walk 

anticlockwise around the Tarn (with back to prevalent wind) Most dogs have 

at least one poo during the first 100m of leaving the car park. Hence the first 

bins were located accordingly in this direction. Further bins were then spread 

at regular intervals around the Tarn path taking into note areas of most dog 

poo. 

The 3 concrete bins were removed over a couple of years and one of the Walls bins was put into 

storage only being brought out on really busy days. There was no noticeable increase in litter on 

site as a result. Litter is picked and bins emptied daily by site staff or volunteers. 

The litter bin has purposely been removed from the car park as this can become a focal point for 

people to empty their cars of rubbish. If you are by your car then it is reasonable to be expected 

to take your rubbish home. There has been no noticeable increase in car park rubbish since the 

bin was removed. 

While there is no obligation to provide litter bins or dog bins at country parks, as people by law 

should not drop litter or let their dog foul without clearing it up. We realise that the provision of 

dog bins in particular, is important particularly with the volume of dog walkers and families 

visiting this site. Many parks have removed all litter bins, however we now provide one litter bin 

by the tearoom and the dog bins can also have litter put into them. It is now acceptable to dispose 

of dog waste alongside general waste as it is no longer classed as a separate special type of 

waste. 

Another litter reduction method as well as the change in ice cream supplier, is the reusing of 

empty milk cartons from the tearoom, as duck food scoops. These are then returned to be reused. 

While we still get the odd carton left on site, staff return these to the tearoom for reuse. Use of 

cartons has stopped use of paper bags, which were previously used then discarded, adding to 

litter on the ground and in bins. 

Any fly tipping is removed or reported immediately but thankfully incidents are low in number. 

A full recycling facility was set up in the car park for approximately 2 years. Recycling cans, 

bottles, cardboard, paper and plastic. This was good as we were able to recycle much of the 

47

waste from the tearoom for free. This area however became a target for flytipping and was a 

constant headache for staff trying to keep the area tidy. It became an eyesore and thankfully was 

able to be removed in 2009 when a new recycling centre was set up in Brampton. The Tarn 

retained a cardboard recycling bin which is now pays to have emptied. Cardboard is the largest 

volume waste from the tearoom and thus worth maintaining recycling facilities for this. As other 

waste from site is mixed waste with dog poo it is unfeasible to sort and recycled this. See also 

page 30 

Action 

Monitor use of bins and move or remove as necessary. 

Continue to explore ways of reducing waste on site. 

Graffiti & Vandalism 

Thankfully there is very little graffiti or vandalism issues at Talkin Tarn. Incidents are usually 

very minor and easily dealt with the same day by Tarn staff. 

Dogs 

The site is very popular with dog walkers. Dog owners are requested to keep their dogs under 

close control. Although some people would prefer this to be dogs on a lead, it is felt this is over 

the top and would be incredibly difficult to enforce after hundreds of years of use otherwise. 

Some dog owners do however consistently abuse this letting their dogs run wild across the fields, 

paths and woods. Dogs catching and killing rabbits and ducks is not the acceptable practice that 

some dog owners seem to think that it is, whatever the breed of dog. Swans have been killed the 

last 2 years running by dogs ‘playing’! Staff, are expected to speak to any member of the public 

whose dogs are deemed to be behaving in an unacceptable manner. Staff, have been issued with 

information cards to give to members of the public who refuse to listen and often become 

abusive when confronted about their dog’s behaviour. 

A series of fences were installed along the south and east sides of the Tarn after the outbreak of 

foot and mouth disease in 2001 to reduce dog and sheep contact. Although there was some 

public opposition to this, the impact for people and wildlife has been very beneficial. 

The bank side vegetation has had an opportunity to grow up with less wear on the shore. (from 

sheep) This is excellent for the common blue damselfly that is known as the symbol of the Tarn. 

The damselflies need vegetation for the emergent stage of their lifecycle. The vegetation is also 

good for stabilising the banks, which are prone to being washed away and provides nesting areas 

for the wild foul. Separating the sheep from the dogs has also reduced the number of sheep 

attacks and incidents. Even though the fence is there it does not stop access into the fields, and 

stiles are provided for this purpose. Dogs are however requested to be on a lead in these fields if 

sheep are grazing. Land owners are entitled to shoot dogs found attacking their livestock and 

owners will be taken to court. There have been several incidents of this nature at Talkin Tarn. 

Staff will call the police in these cases. 

The site is covered by the Dogs (fouling of land) Act 1996. 

A local authority may by order designate for the purposes of this Act any land in their area which 

is land to which this Act applies. 

If a dog defecates at any time on designated land and a person who is in charge of the dog at that 

time fails to remove the faeces from the land forthwith, that person shall be guilty of an offence. 

There is also now Dog Control Orders (Prescribed Offences and Penalties, etc.) Regulations 

2006 and the Dog Control Orders (Procedures) Regulations 2006, which implement sections 55 

and 56 of the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 Under section 57 of this act a 

48

Dog Control Order can be made in respect of any land which is open to the air and to which the 

public are entitled or permitted to have access (with or without payment). 

The Dog Control Orders (Prescribed Offences and Penalties, etc.) Regulations 

provide for five offences which may be prescribed in a dog control order: 

(a) failing to remove dog faeces; 

(b) not keeping a dog on a lead; 

(c) not putting, and keeping, a dog 

on a lead when directed to do 

so by an authorised officer; 

(d) permitting a dog to enter land from 

which dogs are excluded; 

(e) taking more than a specified number 

of dogs onto land. 

The penalty for committing an offence contained in a Dog Control Order is a maximum fine of 

level 3 on the standard scale (currently £1,000). Alternatively, the opportunity to pay a fixed 

penalty may be offered in place of prosecution. Enforcement officers can issue a minimum £50 

fine to people who fail to clean up their dog’s mess. 

Four dog bins are provided around the main Tarn side path. 

Action 

Maintain fencing around Tarn. 

Monitor dog usage and provision 

Bird Observatory 

The previously called Farlam Boathouse is now the bird observatory. This building was 

refurbished in 2007 and now houses bird identification information and a bench. The building 

has one light, which is powered by a small wind turbine located on the bankside opposite the 

boathouse. 

There is a letter in the special collection at Durham University under Howards. Ref 

HNP/C40/13. It is a hand written letter by John Bell of Farlam agreeing to the continued use of 

the boat house and platform and water of the Tarn for a rent and not using it if Lord Carlisle or 

agents wished to and to remove the building if requested to do so. At the start it refers to his 

father Joseph Bell who built it in 1843(and died in 1849). 

An elderly local resident who farmed the land said the boat house was known as John Bells Boat 

house although John Bell was no longer farming here by 1880 he retained ownership which 

passed to his son Joseph who was the chief engineer on the Titanic. 

Action 

Investigate development of building into a proper hide with 

side windows looking onto a developed sheltered wildlife area 

49

Willow Hide 

This was commissioned by the former East Cumbria Countryside Project in 2000 and created by 

Steve Fuller a local willow weaver. It is a natural growing bird viewing area. It is maintained 

annually and a popular feature around the Tarn. It contains a small log seat, & 2 log stools. 

Action 

Maintain annually by cutting and re-weaving 

Replace log seats as required 

Paths 

The main Tarn path is approx 1.3miles long and follows a loop of the Tarn itself. This was 

always a worn path but was improved with surfacing in approx 1999. It was then resurfaced as 

part of a funded project in early 2007. This path is very heavily used and needs to be maintained 

in good condition (while in keeping with the country park) and suitable for access for wheelchair 

users. The hard surfaced area should be a minimum of 1.4m wide. An additional strip of grass on 

either side of the path is kept mown as additional walking width. Drainage has been installed in 

many places to guide water from the path. Clearing of drains is an on-going process. 

Other paths around the Tarn tend to be desire lines created by walkers over the years. These are 

not surfaced and can become muddy and slippery at times and often contain protruding roots. 

There is no plan to surface these paths as they are mainly within the woodland areas and thus 

would not be appropriate or in keeping. However some areas of high wear need diverting at 

times and woodchip is used on occasions in particularly wet and high wear areas. There is some 

old sleeper boardwalk in one woodland section that needs to be removed or improved. 

Action 

Maintain Tarn loop path to standard as described above by on-going maintenance and full 

resurfacing as necessary. (approx every 8 years). 

Clean and install drains as necessary. 

Investigate removal/improvement of boardwalk 

Monitor path condition – ongoing. 

Buildings 

These were constructed or refurbished in 2006. Council buildings are maintained by Carlisle 

City Councils buildings section who organise any maintenance or repairs. Site staff have daytime 

and out of hours emergency contact numbers. Cleaning of these buildings is undertaken by 

Carlisle City Council who employs a cleaner (2 hours /day mon- fri and mobile cleaner at 

weekends) Folders containing information (plans, fittings spec, instructions, suppliers) on new 

buildings are contained in site office and by CCC buildings section. 

The site buildings are as follows; 

Tearoom (upstairs) made up of 2 rooms for seating and kitchen, dish wash area, store cupboard 

and 2 toilets. Some refurbishment work was carried out in 2006 upstairs. 

Gift Shop and Takeaway (downstairs) containing serving area, kitchen, gift shop area and 2 

store rooms. Downstairs gift shop and takeaway refurbished in November 2009. 

50

Changing Rooms x 2 (seen in photo to left) located downstairs 

containing 3 cubicles, 2 toilets, 2 showers and 2 sinks in each. 

Changing rooms refurbished in February 2009. 

Toilets containing 2 male toilet cubicles, 3 urinals, shower, 4 female 

toilet cubicles, shower and a disabled toilet and shower. Build in 

2006. Headed by air source heat pump and underground heating. 

Education Cabin containing hall, lobby, kitchen area, 2 disabled toilets and outside covered 

porch. Built in 2006. Headed by air source heat pump and underground heating. 

Site Office and Workshop, containing office area, workshop area and power control room. 

Build in 2006. Heated by electric fan heater on thermostat. Photo voltaic cells on roof. 

Alex Boathouse refurbished in 2006 containing 2 rooms upstairs and original water access boat 

storage at ground level. Heated by water source heat pump. 

Bird Hide (Farlam Boathouse) refurbished in 2006 containing one small room with viewing 

window at the end. Lighting powered by wind turbine located 20m away. 

Stable old storage shed used for timber storage. One large room with cobbled floor. 

In need of repair work. 

Metal Container used for storage of site maintenance equipment of low value. One large 

container. Repainted in 2007. 

Rowing Boat Hire Shed used as base for hiring of rowing boats. Owned by Carlisle City 

Council. 

Rowing Club Shed owned by Carlisle City Council and leased by Talkin Tarn Amateur Rowing 

Club. Maintained by Carlisle City Council. Rowing club currently fundraising for new shed and 

agreements for this being drawn up with City Council regards length of lease and annual 

payments. 

Other Areas Of Note 

Compound 

Fenced area behind workshop for the storage of equipment and materials for site management. 

Also contains Sailing Club wooden store owned by sailing club. This contains the Klargester 

sewage treatment system for the site. (Site is not on mains sewerage system) Due to the 

biological nature of the Plant it is important to be careful about the type of chemicals that are put 

down the toilets and sinks. See Buildings files in Site Office for more detail on how it works and 

the chemical restrictions. This unit requires servicing and de-sludging once or twice a year 

51

depending on usage. This is currently done on contract. It is proposed that the new gas storage 

tank will also be located in this area. 

Campsite 

Camping ground with drinking water tap, metal dish wash sink and campfire area. 

Sailing Boat Storage 

Area on frontage of Tarn used for storage of Sailing Boats for Brampton Sailing Club members. 

Action 

Report any faults as they occur 

Monitor cleaning levels and consult with cleaning section to adjust as necessary. 

Water Sports 

A Water Users Meeting is held annually in the early spring to which all site based clubs, annual 

permit holders and regular water sports users are invited. This is used to discuss the forthcoming 

year, any unresolved issues and solutions. Clubs are however encouraged to have regular contact 

with the Park Manager and not save up issues which could be dealt with throughout the year. 

Action 

Continue to hold annually 

Talkin Tarn Amateur Rowing Club 

Rowing races were first held on Talkin Tarn in the 1850’s and the Rowing Club was formed in 

1859 by local towns-folk, several descendents of whom still live in the area. It is the oldest 

rowing club in the North of England with the exception of Tyne R.C., and is the 14th oldest nonuniversity 

club in the country. 

Until 1976 when Talkin Tarn was purchased by Cumbria County Council and made a Country 

Park, the area was administered for public use by the Rowing Club under a lease from Boothby 

Estates. 

Up to the early 1950’s travelling being somewhat restricted, the Club competed at about 5 

regattas per year, in the Tarn/Tyne/Tees/Tweed area. Then transport became easier and more 

regattas were attended, rising to about 15 per year in the mid-1960’s, where in 1965 the Club 

won the National County Eights Championship, representing Cumberland. The area of 

competition now extends from Scotland in the North to the River Thames in the South with 

members having competing in International Regattas, World Rowing Championships, Olympic 

Games and World Masters Rowing Championships in various Countries throughout the World. 

In the late eighties and early nineties the British Rowing National Squad Manager, who 

contributed to the considerable success of British Rowing at that time, learned his rowing at 

Talkin Tarn and was a member for many years and is a current Vice-President of the Club. 

In recent years the Club has been very strong in Junior and Veteran Class and have achieved 

numerous successes with over 300 wins at Open Regattas, Medals at the World Masters 

Championships plus two, Silver and one Bronze Medal at The British National Rowing 

Championships. 

52

Talkin Tarn Annual Regatta has grown considerably in recent years from a total entry of 20 in 

1946 and 97 in 1988 to what it is today – very successful and the largest one day regatta outside 

London with total entries now in excess of 300. 

The Club members’ ages range from 10 to 74. Club nights are Wednesdays and Thursdays from 

6.30pm to 8.30pm and Sundays 9.00am to 11.30am. (Taken from www.talkintarnarc.com) 

The Rowing club occupy a large boathouse located next to the site office. This is used as the club 

base and storage for equipment. This boathouse is owned by Carlisle City Council and is leased 

to the club along with access rights to the water. This lease has been updated in 2010 and a new 

much larger boathouse containing storage area and training room has been constructed, funded 

by the rowing club through grants and fundraising. This is due to open in March 2011. The club 

uses the sites changing rooms and has access to the site safety boat (by trained members of club 

only) Two launching areas are provided for launching of Rowing boats. 

The club has rights to hold an annual regatta at the Tarn (1 st Saturday in July) and other events 

on prior agreement with the site manager. 

Action 

Continue to support the rowing club and their use of the site. 

Collect lease payment annually 

Brampton Sailing Club 

The sailing club has used the site for over 20 years. Previously they occupied the boathouse that 

is now the tearooms. Their use of the site is based on an agreement that is currently being 

renewed this agreement was last signed and updated in 1992. Currently club sailing times are as 

follows, but qualified club members may sail at the Tarn at other times as long as they are 

abiding by club rules and regulations. 

Times of Use (based on 1992 agreement) 

March 15 th – Sept 30 th Tuesday 6-9pm & Sunday 11-4pm 

Oct 1 st – March 14 th Sunday 11am-2pm 

The sailing club have an area of land on the Tarn frontage for storage of sailing boats. 

They also have a wooden storage shed located in the compound area behind the site office. Club 

members are allowed to use the site changing rooms. Access by vehicle is allowed on to the 

frontage area for the purpose of loading and unloading vehicles and dropping off/collecting 

boats. The club uses the sites changing rooms and has access to the site safety boat (by trained 

members of club only) A slipway is provided for the launching of sailing boats. This slipway 

was refurbished in 2007 with the out of water section being concreted. (Previously it was old 

sleepers) The club has rights to hold an annual sailing event at the Tarn on a date agreed with the 

site manager. The agreement is kept in the site office files. The sailing club has their own 

website. www.bramptonsc.webs.com/ The sailing club agreement with the council is currently 

being updated and a new one planned to be in place by April 2011. 

Action 

Continue to support the sailing club and their use of the site 

Collect agreement payment annually 

53

Rowing Boats Hire 

The site owns and maintains 12 Rowing boats. These have been a traditional sight at Talkin Tarn 

for many years. The boat hire is currently run as a franchise, which is signed up to annually. The 

franchise agreement was updated in 2008. Their hours of business are school holidays and 

weekends between Easter and October half term. This is however weather dependant which can 

at times cause issues with customers who wish to hire boats when the weather is inclement and 

the hirer is not present. A copy of the franchise is held in files in the site office. 

The franchise agreement sets out terms and conditions for the operation of the business. 

Amongst other things, the business must hold a minimum of five million liability insurance. The 

operator must be trained to RYA level 2 in power boat use for the purpose of rescue boat cover. 

They must also adhere to health & safety criteria set out by the city council in the form of risk 

assessments, first aid qualification and safe procedures of work. 

The City Council currently pays for rowing boat maintenance costs and annual licensing of the 

boats. Two of the 12 boats were replaced with new ones in 2007. Further major repairs were 

carried out to the boats at the beginning of 2009. The city council also owns and maintains the 

rescue boat. A tin shed/compound is provided on the frontage area for the storage of equipment 

such as buoyancy aids and oars and a place to run the operation from on a daily basis. The city 

council makes no profit from the franchise as all money plus more is put back into maintenance 

and equipment costs. Buoyancy aids were last replaced half in 2006 and half in 2007. 

The franchise currently faces some uncertainty over its future viability as a business. There is 

concern that people are not hiring as many boats as they used to which makes it difficult for the 

business to survive, i.e. busy days are needed to keep the business functioning on quieter days 

and thus to be able to provide a reasonable set of opening times. Many factors may have 

contributed to this, but it is likely that much of this is to do with the poor weather we have had 

for the last few summers. 

Action 

Continue to encourage water sports at Talkin Tarn and provide ways for members of the public 

to participate in an informal & formal manner. 

Possibly consider other ways to manage a boat hire system, this may involve putting the 

franchise out to tender annually or every few years. Or consider it becoming part of wider water 

sports business/activities at the Tarn. 

Continue to advertise the rowing boats as part of Tarn advertising material. 

Consider whether the current business is viable from the council’s point of view i.e. non-profit 

service. 

Other Water Users 

Carlisle Model Boat Club 

This club uses the site once/fortnight on a Monday evening during the spring and summer 

months for sailing model boats. They do not pay to use the water but they pay to use the log 

cabin as a meeting venue. They also use the site on occasional afternoons. 

One life Triathlon & Carlisle Tri 

These clubs use the water on occasional Monday evenings during the summer on agreement with 

the site manager. They do not use any other facilities. The Tarn is used for their Open Water 

54

swimming practice. This is classed as authorized swimming and the site manager has been 

provided with risk assessments and copies of insurance for the club. 

Robin Wood Activity Centre 

This Alston based business uses the Tarn throughout the year for canoe and kayak sessions both 

with adults and children. They pay an annual fee to use the water and changing rooms. 

Carlisle Sea Cadets 

This group have an annual permit for water sports and also for use of the campsite. They mainly 

use the water and campsite Friday evenings and weekends. 

Local Schools 

NCTC as it was and Newman school have both used the site regularly over previous years for 

canoeing for students with instructors. NCTC & St Aidans now come under Richard Rose 

Central Academy who buy an annual water sports permit. 

Individual Use Of The Tarn 

Day Permits 

These can be purchased on a per boat per day rate from the site office or tearoom to launch a 

boat on the Tarn (winter or human powered only). Some battery powered boats are allowed on 

prior agreement with the site manager as this are deemed to be no pollution or noise risk. The 

current rate is £5.85/boat 

Larger groups and multiple day launches receive a discount. This system is ideal for individuals, 

holiday makers and small groups or clubs such as scouts and guides. 

On purchasing a launch permit, a ‘conditions of launch’ sheet must be signed to say that you 

abide by certain health & safety criteria and confirm that your craft is water worthy and that you 

are capable of using it. The site staff may refuse boats from entering the water if they have any 

concerns about the boat or the competence of the person. (a refund would be given) For example 

an inflatable dinghy would not be allowed. If you pay for a launch fee you also get to use the 

changing room facilities for that day. 

Annual Permits 

Annual permits are available for individual water sport use. These can be purchased from the site 

office. 

Post barriers have been installed next to the tearoom to prevent access to the water for 

unauthorized use and to allow emergency vehicle access. All water users must report to the site 

office or tearoom before being allowed access to the frontage area for launching. 

A weather conditions warning flag has been installed to help people manage their own safety 

under our advice on the current conditions. A weather station helps the staff to give this advice 

based on pre agreed cut off points. 

Angling 

Fishing has been carried out at the Tarn or many years previously baliffed by Carlisle Angling 

Club. The Tarn has mainly pike, perch and eels. This is a specialized type of fishing requiring 

specialized equipment and techniques. A fishing information leaflet is given out to each 

fisherman outlining areas to fish and rules and regulations. Fishermen are encouraged to 

purchase tickets for fishing before setting up. This can be done from the site office or tearoom. 

On signing a sheet they are issued with an information booklet. 

55

Fishing costs are currently adults £2/day and children £1/ day. 

Fishermen are not encouraged to stay overnight. Some fishermen turn up very early morning and 

it is acceptable to go and pay later in the morning or when a member of staff patrols. 

A No Fishing Zone was introduced in 2008 as a result of a health & safety incident involving a 

pike hook in a child’s foot. The area to the left of the Alex boathouse round past the front of the 

tearoom and round the 3 bays to the boat house on the opposite site of the Tarn is a ‘No Fishing 

Zone’. This area was chosen as it is the area where most people congregate on the banks to feed 

the ducks with children and also the most wildlife sensitive areas. There is one old fishing 

platform in this area which should no longer be used for fishing. It has however been left for 

recreation purposes. A further 3 disabled access fishing platforms are provided within the fishing 

zone. 

A no fishing season is enforced at the Tarn from 15 th March – 15 th June inclusive annually. No 

fishing is allowed on Regatta day (currently 1 st Saturday in July) 

The Tarn is not currently stocked with fish 

Action 

Maintain current manageable levels of fishing 

Monitor rubbish and fish/wildlife damage as a result of fishing. 

Benches 

Memorial Benches 

Currently there are 22 benches that are located on the circular loop walk around the Tarn. These 

have been installed over a period of 10years. by the same sculptor (Alistair Neville) Each bench 

is individual in design but along the same theme of natural sculpted look. It is not intended to 

add any more benches at the present time as it is full (judgement made by site manager from a 

visual & need perspective) with a bench approx every 100m. 

Each bench is set back slightly from the path with a 

gravelled patch in front of it. Each bench has a memorial 

plaque which is purchased by the bench owner in addition to 

the cost of the bench. This is organised by the bench owner 

to avoid mistakes. Approx 10% of benches have arm rests to 

comply with disability regulations. Currently there is a 

waiting list for benches (kept in filing cabinet in site office). 

As of 2006 when a new bench is installed the owner is 

informed that it will have a guaranteed lifespan of 10 years 

during which time it will be maintained by the city council. A charge of £500 is made for each 

bench. Approx £400 goes to the sculptor to pay for the bench and £100 is kept to put towards 

maintenance for the 10 year period. Not all bench owners have been informed about the 10year 

period as few records on bench ownership were passed on by the previous site owner. Records 

are gradually being built up over time. 

Picnic Benches 

These are located in front of the tearoom, with 2 of the benches having been designed for use by 

people with disabilities. The flexibility of these benches is a bonus 

as they can be moved around easily by the public and by staff for 

56

events. They are also easy to maintain. They are re-stained every few years. 

Action 

Maintain current level of benches 

Maintain 10% of benches with arm rests 

Maintain records of ownership 

Maintain waiting list 

Maintain benches as required (Alistair Neville memorial benches, site staff and volunteers picnic 

benches) 

Sculpture 

There are currently three sculptures at Talkin Tarn; 

A dog sculpture is located in the edge of the woodland behind sandy bay. This was sculpted as a 

memorial to Mrs Irving of Brampton and was made by Alistair Neville. (same sculptor who does 

the Tarn benches) Although a rather random sculpture at the Tarn it is well liked by children who 

come to sit on the dog and have their photo taken. 

A dragonfly throne, which is located next to the waters edge in 

sedge bay. (Seen in photo to left) 

This was created by staff from the old ECCP and was sculpted by 

chainsaw from a large tree stump. It has a fantastic view out across 

the Tarn and like the dog is well used by children. The sculpture is 

beautifully worn smooth from use. However it is now beginning to 

rot particularly at the base and also the foundations of the roots are 

being worn away by the wave wash against the bank which has 

become undercut. It is likely that the throne will have to be 

removed over the next couple of years from a safety perspective. A replacement should be 

considered at this time. 

A willow hide, located on the tarn edge. This consists of a woven willow structure forming a bird 

screen and containing some seats. This requires annual maintenance to reweave it and replace 

any dead willow. 

Some random small mushroom sculptures can also be found in the woodland areas by keen eyes. 

Rights Of Way 

The Tarn has 3 key public rights of way. One which ends at the site boundary coming from 

Brampton Junction. One that follows the loop path around the Tarn, designated in 2006 as part of 

the transfer agreement, maintaining a right of access to the Tarn for local people. One that enters 

the site from Farlam village with the right of way joining the Tarn loop path next to Farlam 

Meadow. The line of this path has been altered unofficially over time to improve access for the 

public using stepping stones and reduce damage on this wetland area. 

Action 

Apply for formal change of path for Farlam footpath. 

57

Access to Wider Countryside 

There is limited scope for good circular walks from the Tarn out into the wider countryside as 

most involve lots of road walking, (although these are quiet country lanes) The most popular 

walks involve a loop up around Farlam and Talkin villages or a walk from the Tarn through to 

Gelt woods. 

Bicycles & National Cycle Network 

Many people cycle to the Tarn and cycle parking is provided next to the tearoom. However 

cycling around the Tarn is not encouraged due to conflicts with the large numbers of walkers and 

dog walkers and the fact that the Tarn path is a public footpath. The woods are also wet and very 

prone to erosion and path damage. Occasional large events have been held at the Tarn such as 

cycle-cross in conjunction with border city wheelers. 

The NCN route number 72 Hadrians Wall Cycle Way runs through nearby Brampton and people 

following this route often detour to the Tarn. The new campsite also provides accommodation 

for organised groups on the cycle route and the Tarn is advertised on the Websites. 

www.nationaltrail.co.uk/hadrianswall and www.cycle-routes.org/hadrianscycleway 

Action 

Continue with occasional cycle events, with the understanding that they are, one offs and border 

city wheelers inform members of this. 

Monitor use of the campsite by NCN groups 

Disability Access 

The site has become very popular for groups with disabilities particularly since the development 

works in 2006. This had made the site much more accessible. The new toilet block and education 

cabin are accessible by a series of ramp ways from the disabled parking at the rear of the 

tearoom. The education cabin contains 2 disabled toilets and the toilet block contains a disabled 

toilet & shower accessible by radar key. The ramps also lead up to the tearoom. The tearoom can 

also be accessed from ground level at the front by a lift. The tearoom contains 10% of its chairs 

with arm rests. It also contains 1 disabled toilet. The main Tarn path is 1.3 miles long, hard 

surfaced and a minimum of 1.4m wide allowing wheelchair access the whole way round for a 

standard electric wheelchair. There are 2 gates to pass through on this route. It was requested to 

have these removed from the Tarn end old hotel in 2006 but this was refused by the previous 

owner. (Cumbria County Council) Two hunter gates were installed with easy to open trombone 

hinges as a compromise. These have been well received by regular wheelchair users at the Tarn. 

Two picnic tables have been designed with people with disabilities in mind. 

The Alex Boathouse and the bird hide are both accessible by a ramp leading off the Tarn path. 

Two staff members have attended a ‘welcome all’ course focusing on welcoming visitors with a 

variety of special needs. Council staff adhere to the policy laid out on equality and diversity. 

Signage on site complies with legislation such as disabled parking areas and ‘assistance dogs 

welcome’ sign for the tearoom. 

Disabled toilets all have emergency assistance alarms and staff are trained how to respond to 

these. 

People with disabilities are considered on emergency evacuation plans and staff trained to help a 

variety of needs if required. Staff are also considered with a Personal Emergency Evacuation 

Plan. (PEEP) 

58

An audit is regularly carried out by the City Councils access officer. Carried out in 2006 and 

May 2009. 

Action 

Investigate removal of gates with old hotels new owner and also discuss path improvements in 

this area in line with rest of Tarn path. 

Maintain Tarn path as hard surface at minimum of 1.4m wide. 

Public Transport Links 

Brampton junction railway station is located approx 1.5miles from the Tarn by road or a 20 min 

walk via road and public footpath. This station is on the Carlisle to Newcastle line. 

Buses run approx every 30mins between Carlisle and Brampton (also link to Newcastle, number 

685) additional services run on number 122 linking Carlisle and Brampton to Hadrian’s wall. 

Talkin Tarn is a 40 min walk from Brampton town centre. 

The only bus to run past Talkin Tarn (using the bus stops at the road entrance to the Tarn) is the 

number 97 through to Castle Carrock but it runs only a few times a day so is difficult to use. 

Play Area 

This was replaced during 2006 during the site redevelopment. The same area was used and the 

fence was later replaced during 2007. The design was led mainly by the amount of funding 

available, but was intended to be natural looking to blend 

in with the surroundings. The old Wendy house was taken 

to the compound behind the site office and is currently 

used as a log store. The area is checked by the playground 

inspector for Carlisle City Council weekly and site staff 

informally in-between times. 

The location of the gate was moved in 2010 due to 

problems with children running into the gate while running 

out of the play area towards parents sitting on the picnic 

tables. 

Action 

Maintain bark levels 

Weekly checks by CCC staff 

Car Park 

Development 

This was redeveloped in 2008/9 with a need identified through risk assessment and visually 

noted problems to improve safety through encouraging more organised parking. Initially the car 

park was widened, removing a narrow funnel area that often 

caused issues with access. Opportunities were also taken to gain 

additional space through clearing of soft banks mainly at the top 

end. A plan was then made to make the best use of the new space 

and shape. An initial system using boulders was installed. This 

was seen to be the cheapest option with good use of a natural 

locally sourced product. However the boulders were disliked by 

members of the public which they felt to be an eyesore. The 

Council responded and these were removed to the car park edge. 

A new system was then drawn up using different materials. A series of beds were created from 

59

ecycled sleepers filled with soil. These provided a visual edge to park up to and helped people 

form ordered rows. This in turn maintained adequate manoeuvring and access distances. The bed 

shape and widths were thought out to eliminate areas where people might be tempted to park 

badly while allowing adequate access and egress. 

Charging 

Various charging systems have been installed over the years by previous owners but none have 

been kept. It was decided by council to install charges in 2007. This was a 2 hour free period 

(with a disk) followed by a £2charge for the rest of the day. This system was seen to not be 

working and complaints were received more about the system causing confusion (resulting in 

parking tickets) than over the actual charge. A new system was installed May 2009 with a flat 

rate charge of £1/day. This was not well received by the public but there was a need for the 

income to help maintain the site. The money from the car parking goes back into site 

management (ring fenced) The funding generated by this has consequently gone towards gift 

shop refurbishment. The timing of the pay period is 10am – 6pm daily. This allows early 

morning dog walkers to still use the site without paying. There is also an annual permit available 

currently charged at £30/year. Information from the parking machine data shows us that the 

busiest months on site in 2010 were August, April and June, the quietest months were, 

November, December and February. The busiest days of the week are Sundays and Saturdays. 

The highest average number of cars using the car park in 2010 was on Sundays in August with 

an average of 240 cars. 

Security 

The site buildings are covered by a CCTV system and outside lighting some of which is on a 

timer and others which are motion sensor activated. 

Various groups are key holders to the drive gate for purpose of accessing the water or buildings 

for agreed purposes. A list of key holders is kept in the site office. 

Site buildings are covered by burglar alarms which are linked to a 24hr monitored system. Site 

staff, (staff then call police) are called out if the alarms are activated. 

Crime levels are low on site the main target being the occasional theft from cars. Although the 

car park has been awarded a Park Mark award in 2010 and recognised as a safe car park. 

Incidents are reported to the police. There are 2 floodlights in the car park to light it at night. 

Occasional incidents also occur between dogs/dog owners and between dogs and neighbouring 

livestock. Incidents of this nature are reported to the police. Site staff will gather information if 

possible to report to the police. 

Events 

Currently the following events are held annually. Water sports day at the beginning of June, 

Rowing Regatta the first Saturday in July, Halloween on 31 st Oct, Santa’s Grotto weekends 

during December. Other occasional events include tremendous trees, children’s activities, and 

model boat sail-in day. Links are occasionally made with other organisations to run events such 

as Cumbria Wildlife Trust. 

Action 

Continue with current events and gradually build up additional sustainable events throughout the 

year. 

60

Campsite 

The campsite closed in approx 2003. It had been a small camping and caravan site for approx 20 

years previous to this. However there were many issues with campers causing problems on site 

and with neighbouring landowners, and the site was finally closed by Cumbria County Council. 

In 2007 work began to clear up the then overgrown campsite. This involved felling of trees and 

starting a grass cutting programme. Further work in 2008 saw the installation of a cold water 

sink and an improved water tap as well as a fire point. The site however suffered from its 

unevenness and water logging in certain areas. With the refurbishment of the car park at the end 

of 2008 a quantity of good topsoil became available to use to level the whole campsite field. It 

was then harrowed, stones painstakingly removed by hand and then it was all reseeded. The 

campsite was then available for use for camping only, for groups during 2009 onwards. 

Restricting it to groups only, ensured that campers always had insurance cover for the activity 

and had leaders onsite at all times supervising. This reduced the risk or recurring problems with 

unruly campers and associated issues. The campsite area is used regularly by visiting school 

groups as part of environmental education programmes. 

61

Boathouse 

Tearooms & 

Takeaway 

62

The Boathouse tearoom has been running since 1 st Saturday in July 1994 (Regatta Day) the 

takeaway area was already open prior to this selling ice cream, sweets and cold drinks. 

Previously owned by Cumbria County Council and run by Cumbria Contract Services. It 

shoulders the responsibility of being self funding with any profit going into the management of 

other aspects of the Tarn. The tearoom, gift shop and takeaway are managed as an integral part 

of the site involved in all aspects from events and schools to catering for training groups and 

meetings. Its wide range of services help to maintain year round service and cater for a wide 

customer base. It has a large influence over sustainability of the Tarn effecting issues such as 

waste production, fair trade, energy and water use. 

Opening Hours 

Pre 2006 the tearoom opening hours were as follows; 

10.30 – 3.30pm 7 days/week March -November 

November – February 3 days/week only (fri, sat, sun) 

There were 2 permanent members of staff. The manager and the 

cook who were both were contracted to 25hrs/week. The 

tearoom staff, were supplemented with casual staff as and when 

required. The tearoom was waitress service. 

Since 2006 and Carlisle City Council taking ownership, various 

new hours have been trialled. The tearoom is currently open 

7days/week, year round with a takeaway only service on Mondays, Tues & Weds (November – 

March) During school holidays the takeaway and tearoom are open daily (takeaway from 

midday).(except for xmas day, boxing day and new years day) 

During June, July and August 2009 & 2010 the takeaway area was open till 8pm on Tuesdays 

and Thursdays for late night opening. This is staffed with one casual staff member overlapping 

with a permanent member of staff who adjusts hours to start & finish later on that day to avoid 

additional expense. Based on takings this was not seen to be a profitable addition to service. 

Staffing 

The current permanent staffing levels are, Tearoom Manager 34 hours/week, Cook 30hrs/week 

and Kitchen Team Leader 12hrs/week. The staffing is supplemented with casual staff as and 

when required. The tearoom has an average of 10 casual staff on its books at any one time. The 

tearoom is covered by 2 members of staff on normal weekdays. On Saturdays there are 4 

members of staff (one covering the takeaway area) and on Sundays there are 5 members of staff 

(one covering takeaway area). On Mondays during the winter just one member of staff is 

required to cover the takeaway area. Other staff are present on site, which avoids lone working 

issues. 

On weekdays during school holidays 4 members of staff are required, 3 upstairs and one to cover 

the takeaway. Various serving methods have been trialled to improve efficiency of service. 

Currently customers pay when they order at the counter. The advantages of this system are that 

customers are served in order and customers can not leave without paying (of which there were 

several incidents previously) Customers can also be told if there may be a wait for food before 

they sit down, so they have a choice to leave before they make themselves comfortable, if they 

do not wish to wait. The takeaway area has helped relieved busy days with a faster takeaway 

option. 

The tearoom offers catering for private functions in the tearoom with a minimum of 20 people. It 

also offers catering for groups hiring the log cabin or using the campsite. During December 

Christmas meals are available with pre-booking. 

63

Gift Shop 

Pre 2006 the gifts used to occupy an area in the tearoom extension upstairs where a low partition 

separated them from the tearoom area. The partition was removed in 2006 and the gifts were 

gradually removed and became a few gifts on shelves around the tearoom walls. 

The gift shop was developed to occupy the unused downstairs area. This area was previously 

used to store the rowing boats during the winter months and also the old site quad bike. The 

takeaway kitchen area was also used by site staff. It had a partial refurbishment in approx 1998. 

Since 2006 the room was made up of old 

display units from the tearoom such as old 

dressers and shelving. This was intended as a 

temporary situation to trial whether the shop 

was viable. The gift shop and takeaway area 

has undergone a full refurbishment in Dec 

2009 incorporating new flooring, display 

cabinets and lighting, all now blending with 

the style of previous building refurbishment 

works at the Tarn. The shop is open when the 

takeaway area is open. Opening hours may be 

extended depending on the success of the new 

gift shop. 

A kiosk area was built in 2006 as part of the tearoom refurbishment works, now used as an ice 

cream selling point. 

The tearoom was refurbished in 2006 with the following work being carried out. 

• Work to treat rot in woodwork 

• Floor in main area was sanded and re-varnished 

• Carpet in extension was replaced 

• All windows and doors were replaced except for emergency exit door upstairs and 

internal doors both upstairs and downstairs. 

• Lift was installed (and new lobby area downstairs) 

• Ramp system replaced and extended to link tearoom with toilets, log cabin and new 

disabled parking area at rear of tearoom. 

• Repairs to balcony stairs and wood treatment 

• Open fire replaced with wood burning stove. 

Additional works carried out since 2006; 

• Updating of equipment (microwaves, display unit, fridges and freezer) and purchasing of 

new kitchen fan system to meet current regulations. 

• Fitting out of ice cream kiosk 

• Purchase of new furniture for tearoom 

• Purchase of new balcony furniture 

• Floor cover installed in ice cream kiosk 

• Gift shop and takeaway refurbishment 

• 

Additional Works Winter 2009 

• New cupboards and work surface in takeaway area 

• New coffee machine in takeaway area 

64

• Repainting of ice cream kiosk area 

Action 

Purchasing & sourcing of gifts 

Stock takes 4 times/year 

Explore further opportunities to develop fair trade goods for all aspects of business 

Annual menu reviews 

Continue to explore opportunities to reduce, reuse and recycle. 

Monitor success of gift shop since refurbishment and adjust opening hours as required. 

65

Health & 

Safety 

66

The park adheres to Health & Safety Policies and procedures as laid out by Carlisle City 

Council, this includes The Health & Safety etc at Work Act 1974. Areas that are covered under 

these policies are summarised as; Accident reporting procedure, assault reporting procedure, risk 

assessments, control of substances hazardous to health (COSHH), first aid, display screen 

equipment, personal protective clothing. 

In addition site staff, carry out site patrols on a daily basis to monitor the park and its facilities. 

Any potential hazards are reported immediately to the site manager. Any immediate hazards are 

cordoned off to make the area safe and dealt with immediately if possible. 

The Tarn Manager is responsible for the health & safety at Talkin Tarn. Various detailed plans 

have been drawn up to cover areas of work. These are kept in the site office and are as follows; 

Water Safety Plan 

This contains information on all aspects of water usage at the Tarn. Including location of water 

safety equipment, warning systems for weather and blue green algae, emergency systems, water 

related risk assessments and staff responsibilities. 

Fire Safety Plan 

This contains plans with locations of all fire fighting equipment and monitoring and emergency 

systems. Maintenance and testing of equipment, and staff responsibilities. 

Risk Assessments 

Each activity is individually risk assessed and these are kept in a folder entitled Risk 

Assessments in the site office. The Carlisle City Council format is followed. There are currently 

54 assessments covering the Tarn. The tea room hold a separate set of risk assessments. 

The Tarn Supervisor currently holds the role as Union (Unison) Health & Safety representative. 

Lone working is addressed by risk assessments No. 36 & 50. 

Action 

Update risk assessments annually or as required 

Write new risk assessments as required 

Update new & existing staff on plan (water & fire safety & risk assessments) contents and their 

requirements. 

Staff weekly fire checks on buildings 

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) 

The site complies with regulations for COSHH by maintaining a record of up to date safety data 

sheets for all chemicals stored or used on site (file in site office). All chemicals are stored in a 

metal locked hazardous substance cupboard stored in the workshop. Petrol is stored in a separate 

container within 5 or 10 litre fuel cans. Tractor red diesel is purchased via requisition book from 

stores at Bousteads Grassing. It is purchased in 2 x 10 litre containers and transported back to the 

Tarn by car. Containers are put into lidded plastic tubs to prevent fuel leakage and fumes in car. 

Fuel for mowers, trimmer, chainsaw and safety boat is purchased locally in Brampton where a 

fuel account is held, to be signed for only by nominated persons. 

Action 

Update or add new safety data sheets as required 

Review fuel carriage system if sudden increase in fuel usage. 

67

First Aid 

First aid kits are located in the tearoom kitchen and takeaway area, (catering specific) workshop, 

education cabin and rowing boat hire shed. The Tarn Manager and Tarn Supervisor are trained in 

First aid at work. The Tearoom manager and cook are trained as appointed persons and as many 

other staff as possible are trained in basic first aid. See staff training matrix in site office for up 

to date list. 

The Tarn Supervisor is currently the nominated first aider for the site and regularly checks and 

tops up first aid kits as necessary. 

Action 

Update first aid training as required (staff training matrix in site office) 

Ensure staff member designated to check first aid kits 

Maintain member of staff as site first aider 

Key to Action Plans 

CPM – Country Park Manager 

TS – Tarn Supervisor 

PAMT – Play Area Maintenance Team 

OJ – Olive Jenkins 

OM – Operations Manager 

C – Cook 

TRM – Tea Room Manager 

BS – Building Surveyor 

IT – IT Dept. 

PS – Placement Student 

FO – Footpaths Officer 

Project Codes in RED (eg P14) refer to separate document Project Register which includes more 

detailed specification of each job. 

Numbers in Black type eg Pg 14 refer to page numbers in the management plan 

68

Annual Work Plan 

69

Project Codes in RED (eg P14) refer to separate document Project Register (Appendix 2) which includes more detailed specification of each job. 

Action & Page 

Reference & Project 

Code 

Detail/location Daily Weekly Fortnightly Monthly Annually Lead 

Officer 

Site Maintenance 

Grasscutting Pg 23 Tarn side path. Either side of path to a max of 1m 

x 

April - Oct 

P1 

Pedestrian mower or ride on 

GOM 

Car park grass areas around edges 


x GOM April - Oct 

Car park beds 

Pedestrian mower 

x TS April - Oct 

Areas. In front of changing rooms, either side of 

Alex boathouse, picnic area at end of sandy bay 



Pg 59 Campsite 

Ride on mower 


Areas in front of toilets, around ramps and around 

log cabin 



Paths from Tarn edge path to gates/styles. Wildlife 

bay to Farlam field & willow hide area to field 

stile 


Entrance drive either side to a max of 1m 

including areas around entrance sign by road and 

strip of grass on verge up to bus stop sign. 


Path through wildflower meadow through to car 

park pond 


Trimming 

Base of Tarn edge benches, all orienteering posts, 


P2 

gates, signs and stiles on Tarn edge path. Also 

willow hide, dog bins and life rings 

Areas by ramps x TS April - Oct 

Pg 59 Campsite round signs, tap, sink, campfire & fire 

point stand. 

x 

Car park base of signs, posts and stones and ramp 

to car park pond inc pond dipping platform area. 


Farlam Path, path edges and all gateways inc. 

boundary gate. 

x TS April – Oct 

Comments 

70

Action & Page 


Code 


Officer 

Comments 

Pg 23 Farlam Meadow edges of footpath slabs. TS Occassional as 

required 

Nettles on Tarn edge between tearoom and Alex 

boathouse 

April - Oct 

TS Occassional as 

required 

April - Oct 


Nettles either side of entrance from car park, Alex 

boathouse end. 

Nettles between Alex boathouse and willow hide x TS Late aug/early 

sept. Twice/year if 

necessary 

Pg 23 P3 Cut back bracken on Farlam path x TS August 

Cut back nettles around edge of wildflower 

x TS After hay cut 

meadow next to car park 

taken 

Litter Picking P4 Tarn path x TS 

Woodland paths x TS 

Car park x TS 

Entrance drive x TS 

Tearoom and toilet areas x TS 

Campsite x TS 

Roadside Verges & Boundary x TS 

Dog Bin Emptying P5 Tarn edge path bins x4 x TS 

Outside Tearoom bin x TS Or more often 

Sweeping/Blowing P6 Blow ramps to tearoom, toilets and log cabin 

(includes steps) 

x TS 

Blow paving around tearoom and including 

disabled parking area 

x TS 

Sweep bird hide x TS 

Sweep slipway and boat launch platforms and 

concrete edges 

x TS 

Bird/squirrel feeding Top up food in Bird/squirrel feeding area x TS Or more often in 

Pg 44 P7 

winter 

Weeding P8 Paving around tearoom and including disabled 

parking area 

x TS 

Ramps to Alex boathouse and bird hide x TS 

71

Action & Page 


Code 


Officer 

Comments 

Pg 39 Check Geocaches & clean out x TS 

Stone retaining walls either side of entrance near 

Alex boathouse 

x TS 

Sailing boat storage area x TS 

Play area checks Check for safety issues & maintenance needs x PAMT 

Tidy workshop x TS 

Site office x CPM 

Change parking meter 

batteries P10 

X2 in car park TS 3 times/wk 

Water hanging 

Baskets & tubs 

Balcony and ramps x TS seasonal 

Site Patrol P11 Tarn path x TS 

Woodland areas (on rotation) x TS 

Farlam path x TS 

Meadows (on rotation) x TS 

Car Park, surface, beds, edges, meters, signage x TS 

Unlocking/locking Drive gate x Staff 

on day 

On arrival/leaving 

Toilets x Staff 

on day 


Site office x Staff 

on day 


Cut logs for tearoom Keep woodshed topped up x TS During 

P12 

autumn/winter 

Check requirements and take logs to tearoom x TS During winter 

months 

Car Park Maintenance Fill pot holes as they develop x TS 

Pg 58 P13 Report pot holes in tarmac drive for repair x TS Or as necessary 

Any car park repairs should be carried out on the x TS If not possible, to 

same day. 

repair same day, 

make as safe as 

possible 

immediately and 

make at least a 

temporary repair 

within 24hrs. 

72

Action & Page 


Code 

Monitor site boundary 

P14 


Officer 

Monitor and schedule for repair as necessary x TS 

Comments 

Tree safety P15 Monitor tree safety as part of site patrols x TS Member of staff 

QTRA trained 

Tool Inventory P16 update x TS As required by 

audit 

Paths P17 Repair surfacing 20mm to dust x TS As required 

Top up woodchip path from car park to campsite TS 

Cleaning P18 3 x interpretation panels, Notice boards x2, x TS 

4 x life rings x TS 

Conservation 

Monitor Blue-green Tarn- sampling & recording of results. x TS TBC 

algae Pg 27 P19 

Survey Pg 31 Northern Bilberry x CPM 

Butterfly Orchid x CPM 

Dawf willow x CPM 

Sword Leaved Hellorborines x Jeremy 

Roberts 

June 

Grasscutting pg 23 Mow wildflower meadow with reciprocating 

mower and rake and remove cuttings 

x TS August on-wards 

Mow meadow alongside path between bird hide 

and wildlife bay 

x TS August on-wards 

Gorsecutting Pg 23 Cut old gorse bushes on a rotational basis cutting 

stems close to ground level 

x TS Nov - Jan 

Clean out bird boxes Clean out & survey contents of boxes around site 

x TS 

Implement woodland 

management plan Pg 

21 

Maintain standard 

feature trees, replace 

and weed 

Hedgerow P22 

Maintenance Pg 21 

and repair/replace as necessary. 

See plan for detailed work x TS 

On grazed field between car park and entrance 

parallel to drive 

x TS 

Around adjacent field to above, up to old Tarn end 

hotel 

x TS 

Hedgerow 1 Entrance Drive Trim Back x TS 

73

Action & Page 


Code 


Officer 

Hedgerow 2 Tarn road verge Beat up x TS 

Hedgerow 3 Tarn road verge Beat up x TS 

Hedgerow 4 Hell Beck Beat up x TS 

Hedgerow 5 Field boundary Beat up x TS 

Comments 

Hedgerow 6 Tarn End Trim Back x TS 

Car Park Pond Pg 29 Clean out pond x TS In winter if 

P23 

required 

P31 Remove leaves from car park x During autumn 

Weed removal Pg 26 Remove blown weed from bays with JCB x CPM Up to a max of 4 

P24 

times/year 

Remove weed from bays by hand x TS Or as necessary 

Willow management 

P25 

Maintain willow hide x TS Autumn 

Pg 29 Revetment cutting and weaving x TS Autumn 

Reed management Pg Encourage growth by transplanting in early years 

x TS Winter 

29 P26 

within wildlife bay shallow edge areas 

Invasive vegetation Remove Ragwort and Rosebay Willow Herb 

x TS Remove before 

management Pg 32 before it seeds. Whole site, but do Tarn edge, car 

end of July 

P27 

park, behind pond and Roman Wood as priority 

areas. 

Flora Pg 31 Experiment with reducing vegetation in 

x TS Winter Nov-end 

helloborine colony areas. Strim to 5cm height. 

March 

Woodchip path P28 Between car park and campsite x TS Autumn 

Fence repair P29 Repair fence and replace wire strands with pig 

netting. Replace inters as required at same time. 

Section from Brampton Junction gate along to 

junction level with orienteering post no. 21. 

x TS 

Woodland 

edge/hedgerow 

trimming Pg 22 P30 

Trim entrance drive hedgerow x TS Late winter 

Trim hedgerow from Tarn up to Tarn end gate by 

road 

x TS Late winter 

Trim car park hedgerow x TS Late winter 

Trim back trees as required around edge of 

X TS Or less often if 

wildflower meadow to prevent too much meadow 

every 2 

not required 

shading. 

years 

74

Recreation 

Action & Page 

Detail/location Daily Weekly Fortnightly Monthly Annually Lead Comments 


Code 

Officer 

Boat Hire Tender Pg 

54 

Put rowing boat franchise out to tender x CPM January 

Invoice Invoice rowing club and sailing club for 

x CPM Every 6 months 

Check Boating 

permits 

agreements 

Check or issue permits for water sports x Staff on 

duty 

As required 

Check or issue fishing Check or issue fishing tickets. Tarn path if see x Staff on 15 

tickets Pg 55 people fishing 

duty 

th June – 15 th 

Education 

March 

Update Bird Sightings 

Board 

Workshop window shutter x TS Or as necessary 

Update Posters on 

notice boards 

Car park, changing rooms. tearoom x TS 

Friends of Newsletter 

Pg 39 

Write newsletter each season CPM 4 times/year 

Office procedures Follow as per booklet issued to staff x All Staff 

Take Bookings 

Health & Safety Pg 

65 

Education Cabin & Alex Boathouse x all As required 

Risk Assessments Pg Update risk assessments for Tarn annually or as 

x CPM Or as required 

66 

required. Inform staff of any changes 

COSSH Pg 66 Update COSSH folder data sheets as required and 

inform staff 

x CPM Or as required 

Clean out hazardous substance cupboard and 

dispose of any old or not required chemicals 

appropriately 

x TS 

Fire Alarm Checks Pg Tearoom, office, workshop, Alex boathouse, 

x Assigned 

67 

education cabin, campsite 

staff 

Training Ensure all permanent staff trained in basic health 

& safety & manual handling. 

CPM As required 

Inform new and existing staff via induction, team 

meetings or staff newsletter of any changes to 

health & safety procedures at Tarn and regularly 

review incident/accident forms. 

x CPM 

75

Action & Page 


Code 

Tree Branch Lopping As required around car park. To be surveyed 

annually by Arboriculture team. Informal regular 

checks as part of staff site patrols. 

Buildings 

Maintenance Pg 50 


Officer 

x x x x x OM 

Around Tarn edge path as above. x x x x x OM 

Fire Alarm Service & Repair x BS 

Honeyw 

ell 

Comments 

See contract for 

frequency & 

conditions 

Cleaning as per cleaning schedule x OJ Budget allocated 

to OJ for Cleaner 

& materials 

Pg 33 Klargester service & repair x BS 

Hutchiso 

Pg 33 Klargester & grease trap empty x BS 

Trotters 

Lift service & repair x BS 

A1 lifts 

Fire equipment servicing x BS 

Cumbria 

County 

ns 

Council 

Burglar alarm monitoring -ongoing MI 

Cumbria 

systems 


frequency & 

conditions 

Order as 

required. 

Twice/yr may be 

required 

depending on 

usage 


frequency & 

conditions 


frequency & 

conditions 

See contracts for 

frequency & 

conditions 

PAT Testing x BS See contract for 

frequency & 

conditions 

76

Action & Page 


Code 


Officer 

Sanitary bin emptying x OJ 

PHS 

Emergency lighting testing x BS 

Taylors 

Water hygiene testing x BS 

Rentokill 

Comments 


frequency & 

conditions 


frequency & 

conditions 


frequency & 

conditions 

Compressors x Or as required 

Boilers (heating) x BS 

Taylors 


frequency & 

conditions 

Zip water boiler x BS See contract for 

frequency & 

conditions 

Lightening protection x BS Every 11 months 

Discharge licence fee (Env Agency) x CPM 

Pest control (Carlisle City Council) x CPM As required 

Fixed wire testing x BS Every 5 yrs 

Wood burner stove flue cleaning x BS 

Wind turbine service x BS 

Gutters Clean out on all buildings x BS As required 

Drains Hose out x BS As required 

Sewage plant owned 

by Tarn End 

Tearoom Pg 61 

Check fencing is secure & no other issues x CPM 

Preparation Put open signs out x C 

Change opening times to winter/summer hours x TRM March & Nov 

Specials board checked x C 

Clean tables x C 

Wipe table top folders and menus x C 

Polish cake cabinet x C 

Light wood burner in winter x C Winter months 

Fold napkins x C 

77

Action & Page 


Code 


Officer 

Comments 

Update cake labels x C 

Balcony furniture put out and made sure its all safe 

working condition 

x C 

Cleaning Wash kitchen & dish wash floor x C 

Clean down surfaces x C 

Deep clean tearoom x TRM 

Deep clean kitchen x TRM 

Ice cream scoop freezer x TRM 

Clean sinks x C 

Dust gift shop shelves x TRM 

Wipe out fridges x C As required 

Defrost Freezer dish wash x C 

Chest freezer dish wash x TRM 

Ice cream tub freezer x TRM 

Ice cream scoop freezer x TRM 

Chest freezer takeaway x TRM 

Upright freezer kitchen x C 

Other Top up table top folders TRM 

Clean out and top up kids play box TRM 

Top up crockery in Education Cabin x C As required 

check regularly 

Tidy Stock cupboard TRM 

Stocktake Catering stock TRM 4 times/year 

Gift shop stock TRM 4 times/year 

Order Stock Gift shop x TRM As required 

Kitchen x TRM As required 

Finance Till up x TRM 

Bank up x TRM 

Submit banking details to finance x TRM 

Check and submit invoices and delivery notes x TRM 

Make sure plenty of change x TRM 

Health and safety Health and safety folder up to date x TRM 

Safer food and better business folder up to date x C 

Gift shop Top up stock on shelves x TRM 

78

Giftshop cleaning Dust shelves & gifts x TRM CL = Cleaner 

Sweep & mop floor x OJ 

Polish door windows x OJ 

Sweep lobby x OJ 

Clean sinks x OJ 

Takeaway Cleaning Clean down surfaces x TRM 

Sweep & mop floor x OJ 

Clean oven , microwave, coffee machine, hot plate x TRM 

Wipe clean till, phone & radio, fridge x TRM 

Tidy shelves x TRM 

Defrost & deep clean ice cream freezer x TRM 

Wipe down ice cream freezer x TRM 

Balcony Re-stain/repair balcony furniture x CPM Autumn 

Sweep balcony x OJ 

Menu Review menu x TRM 

Review specials x TRM 

Review suppliers x TRM 

79

Five Year Plan 

80

If square is blocked out this means work has been completed. 

Action/Project 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 Lead Officer Comments 

Staffing Pg 15 Investigate options for overlap of staff days and 

alternate weekend working. (Tarn Supervisor & Tarn 

Attendant positions) 

x CPM Position deleted 

Fill Tarn Attendant Role Position deleted 

Fund/install staff area CPM 

Conservation Carry out an energy audit 

Fund/Install energy efficient boiler in the tearoom to 

heat water for whole of building including changing 

rooms 

x BS Work underway 

x BS 

Apply for LNR status x CPM 

Apply for Natural England accreditation x CPM 

Update Business plan x CPM 

Explore planting options for wildlife corridors linked to 

woodland management plan 

x CPM 

Survey roadside verges joining Tarn land x TS 

Grassland areas undertake NVC level 2 

Orchid meadow by car park 

Grassland strip wind turbine to wildlife bay 

Investigate options for off site weed composting x CPM 

Pg 27 Write catchment management plan for Tarn x CPM requires public 

consultation 

exercise. Initial 

panels designed 

Pg 27 Implement regular monitoring system for blue-green 

algae 

CPM 

Pg 28 Investigate options for natural revetment in areas of x TS On-going 

high wear 

Pg 28 Implement additional natural revetment areas x 

Pg 30 Continue rotational clearing of Hell beck 

x x TS 

x 

x 

81

Section Action/Project 2010/11 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 Lead Officer Comments 

Pg 31 Fence off helloborine colonies 

TS 

Pg 31 Survey narrow-leaved helloborine colonies x x x x CPM Jeremy Roberts 

Pg 21 Implement Woodland Management Plan x x x x CPM 

Pg 21 Implement tree planting programme x x x CPM Awaiting result 

of grant 

application 

Gather data on previous moth surveys (Tullie house?) x TS 

Survey island and investigate improvements for 

wildlife. 

x TS 

Investigate nesting options for range of wildfowl, 

possible installation of island/s in wildlife bay 

x TS 

Investigate boundary demarcation of bay with buoys or 

boom system to prevent boating access. 

x CPM 

Remove all old bird boxes and replace with new. 

Ensure all are numbered and mapped. 

x TS 

Add to numbers of bird and bat boxes. x TS 

Carry out watervole survey x 

Carry out small mammal survey Farlam Meadow x 

Update squirrel survey x 

Investigate options for wildlife value enhancement of 

Farlam meadow. 

x TS 

Quadrat vegetation survey to compare grazed & 

ungrazed areas in Farlam meadow 

x TS 

Install Boundary fence to protect Hell beck from 

x CPM May not be 

sheep.(dependant on outcome of woodland 

management plan if required) 

required now 

Investigate area behind Roman wood and opportunities 

for wildlife value enhancement. (not all in CCC 

ownership) 

x TS 

Annual breeding bird census x x x x x TS 

Update species lists for flora & fungi x TS 

Phase 1 site survey- to identify more formally, 

sensitive areas, access & high wear areas. 

PS 

Invertebrate survey x 

Riparian vegetation survey of Tarn 

x 

82


Fixed point photography set up 

PS 

Cut back woodland/hedgerow growth around orchid 

meadow 

x TS 

Pg 29 Cut back Alder around car park pond area to maintain 

open pond and rear scrub/long grass area 

x TS 

Reduce height of tree tubes around standard trees to 

allow branching. 

TS 

Replace field gate Talkin village road boundary TS 

Pg 21 Maintain hedgerows 1 -6 every 2 years on rotation x x TS 

Education Paint walls in log cabin and Alex Boathouse 

BS 

Install picture hanging rail in Alex Boathouse 

Monitor path wear from coloured trails and repair as 

required 

x x TS 

Pg 38 Update Environmental education programmes x CPM Under threat due 

to 

job/departmental 

changes 2011 

Pg 38 Finish Numeracy Trail 

x TS 

Pg 38 Publicise Numeracy Trail (contact numeracy advisor 

for county council) 

Pg 40 Progress longer term full time university student work 

placements 

Pg 40 Review friends of group 

Pg 41 Review volunteer arrangements (weekday & weekend) 

BS 

x CPM 

CPM 

x CPM 

x x TS 

Pg 42 Distribute site leaflets x TS To happen 

spring 2011 

Pg 43 Write Interpretation Plan x CPM 

Pg 44 Install live cam for bird feeding area to tearoom link to 

flat screen. 

x CPM Quote received 

and funding 

applied for 

Pg 17 Install webcam and link to websites x IT As above 

83


Replace entrance sign by road x CPM 

Apply for additional road signage leading to Tarn after 

assessing requirements. 

x CPM 

Oral history project to record personal histories of Tarn 

use 

x CPM 

Pg 37 Continue to work with borderliners orienteering club to 

maintain permanent orienteering course. 

x x x x CPM 

Pg 17 Investigate generally possibilities for use of different 

x CPM Moodle started 

modern media to advertise and promote the Tarn and 

aid learning about it. (podcasts, blogs etc) 

in 2010 

Record & collate volunteer hours annually x x x x TS 

Pg 42 Explore new areas for marketing of site x 

Pg 44 Complete fencing round bird feeding area CPM 

Pg 35 Install rainwater butt for hanging basket watering x 

Recreation Install new litter bin in front of tearoom CPM 

Pg 47 Monitor use of current bins and their locations x 

Bird hide/wildlife area development x CPM 

Project to create entrance feature from car park down 

to Tarn. (Possible sculptured arch) 

x TS 

Replace wooden stools/bench in willow hide x TS 

Pg 52 Continue with Water users meetings x x x x x CPM To happen in 

march 

Investigate potential of developing site for additional 

water sports. 

x CPM 

Pg 55 Survey angling usage and its effects x 

Pg 57 Apply for formal line of PROW change Farlam path x FO 

Pg 50 Resurface Tarn side path 1.3miles x CPM 

Develop new annual event for Tarn x CPM 

Encourage year round use of the site. Explore winter 

initiatives 

x CPM 

Pg 54 Monitor the boat hire franchise and re-evaluate all, 

aspects and opportunities for development 

x x x x x CPM 

Investigate improvements to power supply for car 

parking meters. 

x BS 

Pg 58 Explore development of links with NCN cycle routes 

and Sustrans. Develop links with Cumbria Cycle way, 

Eden Valley cycle route, Hadrian’s wall loop routes. 

x CPM 

84


Investigate possibilities for development of play 

facilities at Talkin Tarn 

x CPM 

Monitor & re-evaluate use of Alex Boathouse 

x CPM 

Sand down and re treat (plus paint letters) welcome 

signs x5 

x TS 

Sand down and re treat (plus paint letters) ladder signs 

x3 

x TS 

Sand down and re treat (plus paint letters) finger posts 

x4 

x TS 

Pg 52 Review Rowing Club agreement x CPM 

Pg 53 Review Sailing Club agreement x CPM Underway Feb 

2011 

Replace car park wooden fence x TS 

Investigate options for replacement of grass square in 

front of changing rooms with paving to tie in with rest 

of tearoom frontage. 

x CPM 

Tearoom Pg 

62 

Health & 

Safety Pg 66 

Replace balcony furniture x TM 

Apply for funding to replace balcony with possible 

extension plus link with conservatory (see below item) 

x CPM Capital bid 

Investigate possibility of funding conservatory. x CPM Capital bid 

Repaint interior walls x TRM 

Replace carpet in extension x TRM 

Clean carpet in extension OJ 

Replace dishwasher x TRM If required, 

funding may be 

required 

Replace coffee machine upstairs TRM 

Replace coffee machine downstairs TRM 

Review Water Safety Plan x CPM 

Review Fire Safety Plan x CPM 

85

Maps 

Map 1 Talkin Tarn’s Location in England 

Map 2 Talkin Tarn’s Location Within North Eastern Cumbria 

Map 3 Talkin Tarn Country Park – With Boundaries Marked In Purple 

Map 4 Detailed Map of Site Compartments & Features Contained within Phase 1 Habitat 

Survey included as an appendix. 

Abbreviations 

PROW- Public Right Of Way 

LBAP- Local Biodiversity action Plan 

BAP- Biodiversity Action Plan 

NCN- National Cycle Network 

CBEN- Cumbria Business Environment Network 

CPM-Country Park Manager 

TM-Tearoom Manager 

TS-Tarn Supervisor 

TA-Tarn Attendant 

BS - Building Surveyor 

OO-Operations Officer 

GOM-Green Spaces Operations Manager 

Bibliography 

The following documents are stored in the site office at Talkin Tarn; 

• Woodland Management Plan 

• Fire Safety Plan 

• Water Safety Plan 

• Risk Assessments 

• Legend Of The Tarn 

• Visitor Survey Sept 08 

• Job Descriptions for Site Staff 

o Country Park Manager 

o Tarn Supervisor 

o Tarn Attendant 

o Tearoom & Gift Shop Manager 

o Kitchen Team leader 

o Cook 

• Buildings Maintenance Files 

• Species Lists 

• Marketing Strategy 

• Business Plan 

• Environmental Education Programme 

• Phase 1 Habitat Survey 

• County wildlife Site Designation Form 

• Project Register 

86

Appendices 

Appendix 1 

Phase 1 Habitat Survey which includes Map, Database & Photographs in 3 separate edocuments. 

A large scale version of the map is kept in the site office. 

Appendix 2 

Project Register 

87

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