National Parks

What is a National Park?

Some areas of particularly significant and unspoiled natural heritage have been designated as National Parks to preserve their character and ecosystems for public enjoyment.

National Parks are designated by the Countryside Agency (formerly the Countryside Commission), subject to the approval of the Secretary of State under the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949.

Land use and economic development within National Parks is the responsibility of National Parks Authorities (NPA's). These are required to give far greater weight than under normal planning procedures to conservation of the natural beauty of the countryside, its wildlife and cultural heritage. Major developments are only permitted in 'exceptional' circumstances, according to Planning Policy Guidance 7.

In the event of the NPAs' conservation and recreation goals coming into conflict, the 'Sandford Principle' rules that the former takes precedence.

National Parks are not publicly owned land, for example the National Trust owns 25 per cent of the Lake District and 12 per cent of the Peak District National Parks.


Background

The concept of National Parks was introduced in law by the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949. This framework lasted for several decades, and was subsequently amended by the Environment Act 1995.

The Peak District, the Lake District, Snowdonia and Dartmoor were the first areas to be designated as National Parks in 1951.

The Pembrokeshire Coast and the North Yorkshire Moors were designated as National Parks in 1952, followed by the Yorkshire Dales and Exmoor in 1954, Northumberland in 1956, the Brecon Beacons in 1957 and the Norfolk Broads in 1989.

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs became the first Scottish National Park in 2002, followed by the Cairngorms in 2003.

On March 1st 2005 the New Forest became the first National Park in the south-east. The process of designating the South Downs began in 1999.


Controversies

The controversies common to all National Parks are generally disputes about initial designation, disputes about boundaries and questions of economic development within National Parks.

The most contentious current proposal for economic development in a National Park is the plan for a Dibden Bay port. Associated British Ports wants to construct an 800 acre facility on the western bank of Southampton Water, which some regard as part of the New Forest. The environmental impact of the port and its associated transport infrastructure has led to a long and ongoing planning inquiry, with strong views on both sides.


Statistics

300,000 people live within the boundaries of the National Parks

The Cairngorms is the largest National Park, with an area of 1,467 square miles

The Peak District is the most-visited National Park, with 22 million visitors per year

National Parks cover eight per cent of the area of England, seven per cent of Scotland and 20 per cent of Wales

Statistic 1 and 2 (Source: Association of National Park Authorities); Statistics 2-4: (Source: Office for National Statistics)


Quotes

"(1) The provisions of this Part of this Act shall have effect for the purpose- (a) of conserving and enhancing the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the areas specified in the next following subsection; and (b) of promoting opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of those areas by the public."

Environment Act 1995, S61

"The Government regards National Park designation as conferring the highest status of protection as far as landscape and scenic beauty are concerned."

Planning Policy Guidance 7, Section 4.2