The West Pennine Moors have been the subject of partnership working since the early 1970's. In the mid 1970's Greater Manchester Council, Lancashire County Council and North West Water established a ranger service and began work on a Local Plan for the area.
On abolition of the Metropolitan Counties in 1986 Bury and Bolton became partners in the project to improve the Moors for informal recreation. When Unitary Development Plans were introduced the West Pennine Moors Plan was turned into a Statement of Intent and Bury was replaced by Blackburn as a funding partner.
The Authorities containing the West Pennine Moors still work together, co-ordinated by the remaining original partner, Lancashire County Council.
