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knight comes to rescue on national park funding

The Council for National Parks (CNP) (1) has applauded government minister Jim Knight MP on his announcement today (2) of £3.1 million additional funding for the English National Park Authorities over the next two years.

Ruth Chambers, Head of Policy at the Council for National Parks, said: "Jim Knight should be congratulated on his efforts in securing this additional funding for the English National Park Authorities. The Parks had been facing the dismal prospect of two years of standstill budgets which was threatening important services such as providing information to visitors. This welcome increase will help to relieve some of the pressure on the Authorities' tight budgets.

"The National Parks cover 10% of the land area of England and Wales and protect some of the most beautiful countryside in the UK, providing enjoyment for millions of people each year. They also produce a number of other important benefits, including to people's health and well being and the economy. In future years we will be asking other parts of government to ensure that the Parks have sufficient resources to meet the growing challenges they are facing".

Notes to Editors

  • 1. The Council for National Parks is the national charity that works to protect and enhance the National Parks of England and Wales, and areas that merit National Park status, and promote understanding and quiet enjoyment of them for the benefit of all.
  • 2. During a visit to the New Forest National Park Jim Knight announced that he is increasing the total grant for National Parks to £43.12 million in 2006/07 and to £44.24 million in 2007/08, a total of £3.1 million extra over the next two years.
  • 3. The settlement includes funding of £1.8 million for the Sustainable Development Fund which enables each Authority to fund projects involving the community in the Park, aimed at developing and testing new ways of achieving more sustainable living related to the National Park.

For press queries please contact:
Ruth Chambers, Head of Policy on
020 7924 4077 ext. 222