Mountain rescue team is latest to plan new base

Coniston Mountain Rescue team wants to knock down and rebuild its base

A mountain rescue team has followed fellow units in looking for a new base to help it cope with more call outs.

Coniston Mountain Rescue Team has applied to the Lake District National Park Authority for permission to knock down and rebuild its base on Old Furness Road, Coniston.

Planning documents said the team faced "an increased number of call outs" every year, with their role evolving from providing fell rescue alone to wider assistance.

In the Lake District, Duddon and Penrith mountain rescue team are also applying for permission for new premises, while Keswick and Wasdale have moved to new bases in recent years.

"In 2025, significantly more equipment is required, and over time the rescue vehicles have increased in size and different, larger vehicles will be required going forward," the documents said.

The current building was developed and extended from an old base for the national park's rangers.

The current base struggles to cope with modern requirements

While it is in "good working order", planning documents said the team needed "ad hoc" facilities to ensure it is fit for use in the future.

"[The project] will allow for the team to continue in their role for many decades to come in a highly efficient and sustainable building," they added.

Papers submitted to the planning authority said the volunteers would operate from a temporary base while work is ongoing.