Deadline for completion: 5.00pm, Friday 25 March


We are currently preparing our response to the consultation on the future of our National Parks and AONBs (protected landscapes) and are keen to hear from you.  The full consultation can be read here but we are interested to know your thoughts on the following:

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* 1. CHANGE TO PURPOSE - National Park Authorities (NPAs) currently have two core purposes. The first of these is: To conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the National Parks.

The government propose to strengthen the wording of this first statutory purpose to include the aim of helping nature recover (at present the focus is on conservation) - with reference to nature outcomes. What do you think? Do you:

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* 2. CHANGE TO PURPOSE - The second purpose is currently: To promote opportunities for the public understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the Parks.

Government intend to amend this by including reference to improving opportunities, removing barriers to access for all parts of society, referencing public health and wellbeing as an outcome and more actively supporting access (rather than just promoting opportunities) - the wording is yet to be drafted. What do you think? Do you:

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* 3. CHANGE TO PURPOSE - Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) currently only have one purpose - To conserve and enhance the natural beauty of their area.
 
Should AONBs have a second purpose relating to promoting enjoyment and understanding of their areas by the public (similar to that that exists for National Parks at present)?

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* 4. ENFORCEMENT POWERS - Do you support any of the following options to grant National Park Authorities greater enforcement powers to manage visitor pressure? If yes, please leave details in the comments box at the end of the question.

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* 5. FUNDING - The government are not providing additional funding for National Park Authorities, only a small additional sum (almost £1m across 46 AONBs just for this year). Instead they will encourage and make it easier for NPAs and AONBs to raise funds from sponsorship, enter into commercial deals and place greater emphasis on volunteers.

Do you think this will be a better financial model for funding Protected Landscapes than the current reliance on central government funding (where they are ‘in competition’ with others for central government funds)?

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* 6. Any further comments?

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