FAQ's
What does CNP stand for?
CNP stands for the Campaign for National Parks.
What does CNP do?
The Campaign for National Parks is the national charity that campaigns to protect and promote National Parks for the benefit and quiet enjoyment of all.
When was CNP set up?
CNP was originally the Standing Committee on National Parks which was established in 1936 and campaigned for the introduction of National Parks in England and Wales. Following the designation of the National Parks in the 1950s, the emphasis of CNP's work changed to strengthening the powers of National Park Authorities/Committees and fighting for the protection of the Parks.
Where is CNP based?
CNP's office is at 6-7 Barnard Mews, London SW11 1QU. We are a short walk from Clapham Junction train station, which is linked to Victoria and Waterloo.
How is CNP funded?
CNP receives money from a variety of sources including our organisational members and our individual supporters (Friends of National Parks). We also receive funding from statutory agencies, private companies, charitable trusts and foundations and individuals.
How many members does CNP have?
CNP represents nearly 40 environmental and amenity groups, indirectly representing over 3 million people with an interest in National Park matters.
How can I contact CNP?
For our contact details and list of staff members click here
How many people work for CNP?
CNP currently has 9 members of staff. We also have volunteers who help us in our work as well as our speakers who talk at events across the country.
How can I get involved with CNP's work?
You can help CNP by becoming a member of our Friends membership scheme, by becoming a volunteer, or by joining our speaker service. Click here for more information.
What is the Friends of National Parks?
The Friends of the National Parks is the membership scheme that supports the work of CNP. The support of the Friends endorses CNP's campaigning work for the protection of National Parks. Friends also enjoy a number of benefits such as receiving CNP's magazine Viewpoint. More information
How do I make a donation?
You can make a donation by sending a cheque payable to Council for National Parks to CNP, 6-7 Barnard Mews, London, SW11 1QU or online via the Charities Aid Foundation website
How do I order a publication?
Please make cheques payable to Campaign for National Parks and send your order to CNP, 6-7 Barnard Mews, London, SW11 1QU. Alternatively write or call with your credit card details at the above address or 020 7924 4077 ext. 228.
What is the Corporate Forum and what is its purpose?
The Corporate Forum for National Parks is an active partnership between private business and CNP. It is made up of companies which recognise the unique value of National Parks for conservation and recreation, and which agree to uphold these values in the development and application of their policies. The purpose of the forum is to achieve the best integration of business, environmental and community interests in relation to National Parks.
What is the Mosaic Partnership?
The Mosaic Partnership is the term used for the relationship between Black and Minority Ethnic community group leaders across England and Wales with four National Park Authorities (the Peak District, Yorkshire Dales, Brecon Beacons & North York Moors), the Youth Hostels Association (YHA), and the Council for National Parks (CNP).
What is a National Park?
National Parks are substantial tracts of land, sometimes remote, with wide open spaces large enough to provide the public with opportunities for outdoor recreation. National Parks are designated because of their landscape quality, wildlife and their value as a recreational resource.
What is the difference between a National Park and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty?
The National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act of 1949 introduced Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) as well as National Parks. AONBs are designated for their landscape attributes. Unlike National Parks, a recreational role is not part of their designation criteria.
What is a National Park Authority?
National Park Authorities (NPAs) are the bodies charged with the achievement of National Park purposes. They are members of the local government family as well as being independent, special purpose authorities established to act in the best interests of the National Parks and to encourage others to do the same.
How many National Parks are there?
There are currently twelve members of the National Parks family in England and Wales. They are the Broads, Dartmoor, Exmoor, Lake District, New Forest, Northumberland, North York Moors, Peak District, Yorkshire Dales, Brecon Beacons, Pembrokeshire Coast and Snowdonia.
Is the Broads a National Park?
The Broads is not a National Park but is part of the National Park family. The Broads Authority was established under the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads Act 1988. The Broads has the same conservation and enjoyment purposes as National Parks, but it has an additional purpose to protect the interests of navigation
What are the purposes of National Parks?
The statutory purposes of National Parks are:
- to conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the National Parks
- to promote opportunities for the public understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the Parks.
In those cases where conflict exists between the two purposes and reconciliation proves impossible, the first purpose should take precedence. This is known as the Sandford Principle.
Which Government department has responsibility for National Parks?
National Parks fall under the responsibility of the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) in England and the Welsh Assembly Government in Wales
Why do we need National Parks?
National Parks are essential for the protection of our most valued landscapes. They offer opportunities for recreational activities as well as attracting tourists from all over the world to enjoy their unique attributes. They also lead to direct economic benefits to local communities and the wider economy.
Do I have to pay to get into a National Park?
National Parks are free for all to access.
Where is my nearest National Park?
Look at our map for your nearest National Park.