Meet Nigel Wilkinson

Why Windermere Matters to Me

When people hear my name, they often think “businessman.” And yes, I’ve spent more than two decades working in and around Windermere, leading a company that employs over 150 local people. But what many don’t see is why I care so deeply about this place — and why I give my time voluntarily to chair the Love Windermere Partnership. 

 Windermere isn’t just a body of water; it’s part of who we are. It’s where families make memories, where wildlife finds refuge, and where livelihoods depend on a healthy environment. For me, Windermere represents that delicate balance between people and nature — a living example of how closely our wellbeing is tied to the landscape around us. 

 I’ve seen first-hand how much this place means to so many: farmers working the land, rangers restoring habitats, café owners and hoteliers welcoming visitors, and scientists studying how our actions shape the water we all rely on. Each one of these people has a role to play. And together, they remind me that caring for Windermere isn’t just an environmental responsibility — it’s a community one. 

 That’s why I said yes to this role. Not because it’s easy (it isn’t), but because it matters. My job as Independent Chair is to bring together nine organisations — each with their own priorities — and help them find common ground. Sometimes that means difficult conversations, but that’s where progress happens. My role is to make sure we listen, challenge constructively, and act with shared purpose to deliver real, lasting improvements to the lake’s health. 

 I don’t get paid for this work, and there’s no commercial benefit to me personally. What I gain is the privilege of being part of something bigger — of helping to shape a future where Windermere is cleaner, healthier, and thriving for generations to come. 

 The challenges facing Windermere are complex, and there are no quick fixes. But collaboration gives me hope. Because when people, science and shared commitment come together, change becomes possible. 

 Windermere belongs to all of us — and its future is our shared responsibility.