Written by Colin Ley
A major review, led by writer Julian Glover, has called for bold action to reignite the founding spirit of the country’s National Park movement in order to make them greener, more beautiful and open to everyone.
The review praises the ‘brilliant work’ which has been done to maintain the beauty of places such as the Lake District, Exmoor and the Dorset coast.
But it warns that new challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and a changing, urban society mean that new approaches are needed to get the most out of England’s most-loved landscapes, including National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs).
Key recommendations include the need to establish a transformed approach to recover and enhance nature, working with farmers and conservation groups to reverse years of decline and bring landscapes alive.
The Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, which commissioned the review, will now consider the recommendations.
“These landscapes are the jewels in the crown of our countryside and are a cornerstone of our rural economy,” said Environment Secretary Theresa Villiers (pictured above).
“We are committed to ensuring they flourish as havens for nature and sites that everyone in the country goes to visit for inspiration, adventure or relaxation.
“That’s why we asked Julian and his panel to conduct this review and I am very grateful to them for their efforts. I welcome and agree with the spirit of ambition, which is in line with our 25 Year Environment Plan, and we will now carefully consider the recommendations set out in the review.”
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