Public have say on National Parks for first time in 70 years

Farming has played a huge part in the making of the England's National Parks
Farming has played a huge part in the making of the England's National Parks

A call for evidence is inviting views from the public on the future of the UK's National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty for the first time in 70 years.

Defra Secretary Michael Gove and writer Julian Glover are inviting views on how England’s 10 National Parks and 34 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) meet the nation’s needs in the 21st century, and whether there is scope for the current network to expand.

With more than half the population living within half an hour of a National Park or AONB – and over two million people calling these landscapes home – a call for evidence will explore how access can be improved and rural communities better supported, including how the role farmers play can be further enhanced.

The public will have input on whether housing and transport in protected landscapes could be improved, the role they play in the UK's cultural heritage, and how they can boost habitats for wildlife.

Mr Glover said pressures already exist, such as the need to help farmers financially survive in protected landscapes.

Most of the land in the English National Parks is used for farming and it is predominantly the impact of agriculture and woodland management on the natural features of these areas that has shaped the present landscapes and their cultural heritage.

Mr Glover said: "But already, in this review, I’ve seen the pressures too. Local people need jobs and housing, farmers who look after the landscapes need help to survive, and biodiversity is under threat as the numbers of things such as birds and butterflies decline.

"The good news is that I know we can do better – and in this review we are hearing lots of ideas about how to do it. Now we’re offering a chance for everyone who loves our National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Beauty to have a say."

The nation’s AONBs and National Parks cover a quarter of England’s land and are home to over 2.3 million people. They also generate over £20 billion for the rural economy, and support 75,000 jobs.

There are approximately 7,150 commercial holdings in England’s National Parks covering 63% of the total area of the National Parks.

The call for evidence closes on 18 December. Evidence received will form part of the designated landscapes review, which will report back next year with recommendations.