Just Reward for National Parks

20 October 2000

The Council for National Parks ¹ welcomed the 11.02% increase in funding for Wales' three National Parks, announced in the National Assembly for Wales' draft budget ².

Wales' National Parks have suffered in the past from a history of poor funding settlements. The National Assembly is now proposing long awaited improvements. Devolution is making a difference.

In the National Assembly's first year, National Parks received an 8.3% increase in funding. The draft budget for 2001-2002 is another positive step in redressing the balance³.

"The draft budget is very good news for our National Parks" said Sylvia Davies, CNP's Campaigns Officer, "Our National Parks are designated to benefit the nation as a whole. CNP is glad that the National Assembly recognises the value of our National Parks to better health, well-being and the economy⁴. The proposed increase in funding shows confidence in the ability of our National Parks to deliver."

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  The draft budget was announced by the National Assembly's Finance Minister on 18 October 2000. 
3  The draft budget will be debated by the subject committees over the next few weeks and then by the whole Assembly.
4  The National Assembly's budget is determined by its four priorities for
 - Better health
 - Better well-being
 - Better economy
 - Simpler government

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