PRESS RELEASE

Friday 28th October 2022

National Park leaders challenged to be bold and ambitious for the nation 

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The above video is a short 2min teaser- a fuller 12min video of the conference is also available - links below.

Exmoor National Park hosted all 15 UK National Parks, for the UK National Parks’ Conference 2022, sponsored by Dextra Group plc.

The conference theme, ‘What does the nation need from National Parks today?’ provided a chance to consider the role of National Parks in response to nature, climate change, diversity and inclusion, and “green” economic growth.

Tony Juniper - Chair of Natural England, Minette Batters - president of the NFU, Guerrilla Geographer Dan Raven-Ellison and Julian Glover - Chair of the recent government review into protected landscapes were just some ot the speakers who spoke passionately about the need for a united voice, to stand up for nature, to break down barriers and involve the whole nation in the work of the National Parks.

Out on the ground the delegates met local communities, businesses and farmers in a series of study tours across National Park, kindly sponsored by Ordnance Survey.

Robin Milton, Chair of Exmoor National Park Authority said: “It was a real honour to host so many people passionate about our National Parks here on Exmoor. For many it was their first visit and they were blown away not only by the diverse landscapes here but also the work done on the ground to engage different groups and interests in the work of the National Park.”

“There are significant challenges ahead for the National Park, not least in terms of funding, but the conference provided us all with an opportunity to regather, refocus and re-energise for the challenges ahead.”

Sarah Bryan, Chief Executive of Exmoor National Park Authority said: “It was inspiring to hear from so many incredible and innovative speakers, to share our experiences with each other and those we met out and about on Exmoor. At this incredibly difficult time for the country, it was good to reflect and remind ourselves of the value of our National Parks - for people and nature”

An overview report and short film condensing the key messages of the conference, which took place from the 27-29 September 2022, are available online, alongside audio recordings of the main sessions at www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk/conf22. 

ENDS

For media enquiries contact:

Dan James, Rural Enterprise Manager (conference co-ordinator) 

DTJames@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk / 01398 322334. 

Notes to editors

Two video's are available (original files available on request)

2min summary film 

12min full film

Photos available here.

About UK National Parks: 

There are 15 National Parks in the UK, spanning the length and breadth of the country. 10 in England, three in Wales and two in Scotland. 

National Parks cover almost 10 percent of England, 20 percent of Wales and 8 percent of Scotland. 

Each National Park is administered by its own authority, but that authority does not own all of the land within the Park. They are independent bodies funded by central government to: 

• Conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage. 
• Promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of national parks by the public. 
• In carrying out these aims, National Park Authorities are also required to seek to foster the economic and social well-being of local communities within the national park. 

National Parks are free to enter and explore and have 104 million visits each year. 

For more information visit nationalparks.uk 

About Exmoor National Park Authority

First designated in 1954, Exmoor National Park has an amazing variety of landscapes within its 267 square miles – stunning coast, moorland, woodland, valleys and farmland and more than 800 miles of rights of way to enjoy. It is one of 15 National Parks in the United Kingdom and in 2011 was designated Europe’s first International Dark Sky Reserve. Find out more at exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk.

Exmoor National Park Authority works in partnership with the community, local councils, businesses and other organisations to look after the National Park and promote its conservation and enjoyment. Donations to CareMoor for Exmoor are gratefully received towards the upkeep of the National Park and its special qualities.