Inspiring places need our protection

During National Parks Week (26th July – 1st August) millions of people will visit the National Parks of England and Wales, with hundreds of events and activities organised to encourage people to get out and enjoy the special qualities of the Parks’ glorious landscapes. 

The theme for the week is ‘Inspiring places, inspiring people’ and focuses on a celebration of the Parks’ varied cultural heritage. From rubbing shoulders with Celtic warriors and Roman soldiers on the North York Moors to walking with ghosts in the Peak District and experiencing a medieval joust in the South Downs, visitors are being introduced to the people and events that helped to shape the Parks. But what does the future hold? 

The Campaign for National Parks (CNP) wants more people to understand the challenges facing National Parks in the 21st century. CNP is the only organisation dedicated to fighting the major threats to all 13 of the National Parks of England and Wales and acts as an independent watchdog to safeguard them now and for future generations. 

Acting CEO, Ruth Chambers explains: ‘The majority of visitors to the Parks during National Parks Week will be unaware of the many complex challenges facing the Parks. Indeed, most will probably take for granted the wide open spaces, wildness, natural beauty and tranquillity that the Parks have to offer. But despite their protected status in law, serious threats face all of the Parks and there is a difficult job ahead of us.’ 

CNP highlights five current challenges for the National Parks of England and Wales: 

Public spending cuts – the funding of National Park Authorities hangs in the balance with 5% reductions this year and cuts as high as 35% being mooted for following years. That is likely to have a catastrophic effect on the Parks and their already overstretched budgets.  

Climate Change – the changing climate will affect the landscape and wildlife of the Parks. However, the Parks are also essential carbon stores, which will increase their national value to society.  

Greener lifestyles – every year National Park Authorities support projects that encourage more sustainable ways of living and working, while enhancing and conserving the local culture, wildlife and landscape. See this report for many practical examples.

Development pressure – inappropriate quarrying and commercial developments continue to threaten the natural beauty and unique setting of the National Parks. CNP remains on constant alert and continues to fight proposals and plans that are at odds with the National Parks’ purposes.  

Accessibility – National Parks were set up for the benefit of everyone, but some people don’t visit them or worry that they will feel unwelcome. CNP leads the way in engaging with under-represented audiences so that all sections of society can gain access to, understand and benefit from the Parks’ iconic landscapes.  

Ruth Chambers concludes: ‘In 2011 the Campaign for National Parks will celebrate its 75th anniversary and will use the opportunity to demonstrate that National Parks are more relevant than ever. CNP will continue to push National Parks up the political agenda and demonstrate their role and importance to wider society, highlighting the excellent work that they do to conserve wildlife, promote healthier lifestyles and build sustainable communities. And we will continue to promote a greater understanding of the benefits offered by the National Parks to encourage people to take responsibility for looking after them for years to come.’ 

If you’ve enjoyed yourself in a National Park this week, and would like to help keep beautiful places safe please join CNP as a Friend.