Steve Ratcliffe

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Home Authority People of the Park Steve Ratcliffe

Director of Strategic Change

Steve has been with the LDNPA since 2004, managing many of the Authority’s services. In July 2026, Steve took flexible retirement and became Director of Strategic Change allowing him to focus on key areas of Authority interest. Currently that includes sustainable transport, visitor management, sustainability of upland hill farming and the developing relationship with the new Cumbria Combined Authority.

Outside of work Steve is a Trustee of World Heritage UK, and currently chairs that organisation.

I was born in North Wales and I studied and graduated as a Planner. I spent the earlier part of my career at Suffolk Coastal District Council, but moved to the Lake District in 2005. My interests include gardening, sea kayaking and canoeing, running, and community life in Witherslack, Cumbria where I also love being a family man.

Steve Ratcliffe Director of Strategic Change