Stone hoisted onto Roseberry Topping as repair works begin

A helicopter was used to carry heavy materials onto the 1050-foot hill as teams started work on restoring ten paths, which have been damaged by years of erosion. 

Known for its sweeping views across Teesside, Roseberry Topping attracts thousands of visitors each year. However, its popularity has meant that, over time, erosion has led to the formation of scars on the hillside. 

Without repair, these would continue to expand. 

A helicopter was used to hoist tonnes of stone onto Roseberry Topping (Image: National Trust Images/Andrew Davies) As the grass and vegetation are eroded with footfall, the exposed soil is exposed to the elements and with increasing weather extremes, the rain forms channels that become deeper over time.

Naturally, people may then choose an easier path, and the problem escalates further.

The heavy materials hoisted onto the landmark on Monday will allow contractors to work safely to deliver the new path surface with added drainage and replace lost vegetation.

Tonnes of stone were yesterday hoisted up and down Roseberry Topping to kick start repairs to the path network damaged by years of erosion. (Image: National Trust Images/Andrew Davies)

The programme on the paths - which are a mix of permissive routes and public rights of way - is being delivered by the National Trust and North York Moors National Park Authority. 

Repairs to the first path are expected to take around 4 – 6 months and further work for the remaining nine paths will be staggered over the coming years.

'Fame and popularity has come at a price'

Mark Bradley, countryside manager for the National Trust said, “Without the helicopter, it would be impossible for the contractors to carry out the work needed as it’s such a steep landscape.

"Each bag weighs around 900kg and the team is maximising every opportunity available, using return flights to move larger and smaller rocks where they will be needed along the route”.

Naomi Green, senior ranger for the North York Moors National Park Authority, said: “Roseberry Topping is a glorious location and so easily accessible from nearby towns and communities, but its fame and popularity has come at a price.

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"The continuous and ever-accelerating loss of soil and vegetation is bad for nature and the environment, as well as a risk to people.

"The work we’re doing now will provide robust paths and improved drainage, not only improving accessibility for visitors but allowing Roseberry’s scars to heal.”

Visitors to Roseberry may find their usual path is closed with a diversion in place to an alternative route.