New national parks mooted as part of Michael Gove’s ‘Green Brexit’ plans
2 min read
England could be in line for a host of new national parks, under plans being considered by the Environment Secretary.
Michael Gove has launched a review into England’s natural landscape, which will look at extending the parks and other areas of natural beauty.
The work will be led by former Downing Street advisor Julian Glover and form a key part of the Government’s 25-year environment plan for a ‘Green Brexit’.
England’s first national parks were created 70 years ago, and there are currently ten across the country, including Dartmoor and the New Forest.
There are also 34 recognised areas of outstanding natural beauty, including the Chilterns, the Cotswolds and the Isle of Wight.
Writing in the Telegraph, Mr Gove said: “In order to ensure our protected landscapes are in the best possible shape to meet future challenges I have asked the acclaimed writer Julian Glover, a passionate advocate for the countryside and a resident of one of our National Parks, to lead a review into how we can guarantee our most precious landscapes are in an even healthier condition for the next generation.
“The goal of Julian’s review is not to diminish their protection in any way, but to strengthen it in the face of present-day challenges."
The Environment Secretary said the review would address questions such as: “Are we properly supporting all those who live in, work in, or want to visit these magnificent places?
“Should we indeed be extending our areas of designated land? Could we do more to enhance our wildlife and support the recovery of natural habitats?”
Margaret Paren, chair of National Parks England, welcomed the announcement and said her organisation would "play a full part".
She added: "And as we approach the 70th anniversary of the founding legislation we look forward to a future where their beauty is enhanced; they are loved and accessible for everyone; and they continue to support thriving communities in these working landscapes."
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