Purposes & Duty

The Government has provided two statutory purposes for National Parks in England. All public bodies and utility companies, when undertaking any activity which may have an impact on the designated area, have a duty to have regard to these purposes.

The Government also places a corresponding social and economic duty upon National Park Authorities themselves – to be considered when delivering the two purposes. This reciprocal arrangement is designed to ensure a high degree of mutual cooperation, avoiding the risk either that the needs of National Park residents and businesses will be ignored, or that others will ignore its designation when undertaking activities.

Purpose 1: To conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the area.

Purpose 2: To promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the National Park by the public.

Duty: To seek to foster the social and economic wellbeing of the local communities within the National Park in pursuit of our purposes.