Don't Dilute The Special Status Of National Parks

On the day Government proposals to widen the criteria for designating National Parks come up for a crucial parliamentary vote in the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Bill, the Country Land & Business Association (CLA), is calling on members of the House of Lords to vote against them.

CLA President, David Fursdon, said: 'The Government propose a fundamental change to settled legislation by widening the scope for the designation of National Parks in England and Wales. Under the proposals, any land in which it is "possible to promote opportunities for open air recreation" could potentially attract national park status. With such open ended criteria, any land that is reasonably well managed and attractive - that is, the vast majority of our countryside - has the potential to be designated a national park. Such a move would dilute their special status."

He added: 'Moreover, where's the money coming from to pay for this expansion in the number of national parks? Exmoor and the Lake District National Parks are having to close information and visitor centres because of funding freezes and shortfalls, as it is."

'Certain consequences flow for residents and businesses when the land they own or manage is designated as a national park, for example restrictions to planning and permitted development rights. The criteria must therefore be limited to land that is unique. I am very concerned that these proposals have not been the subject of public consultation. The CLA is now calling for a proper debate on what we want from our national parks and not this sort of rushed legislation.'

John Lytton who owns land in Exmoor National Park, said: "These proposals have received no public consultation and they are likely to open the door to a major extension of National Parks, to include, at least, all of the current Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and potentially, other attractive areas of countryside."

Gavin Dollard who owns land and Commons on Dartmoor National Park said: "I am very disappointed that yet again, as owners and managers of the land, we have not been consulted."

Media Contacts

Ollie Wilson
Director of Communications

T: 020 7460 7936
F: 020 7460 7962
ollie.wilson@cla.org.uk

Lisa O'Brien
National Press Officer

T: 020 7460 7934
lisa.obrien@cla.org.uk

Out of hours: 020 7201 9511

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