12/96 - Environment Act 1995, Part III: National Parks

DoE 12/96 (11 September 1996)

This circular draws attention to the action necessary to implement provisions of Part III of the Environment Act 1995 relating to national parks. It explains that the Act enables national park authorities to be established to administer the parks in England and Wales.

The circular emphasises that park authorities should take full account of the economic and social needs of local communities in fulfilling the purposes of the parks, which are given in their revised form: (i) to conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the national parks and (ii) to promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities [of the parks] by the public.

There should be consultation with national and local interests. Details are given of membership and finance arrangements of the authorities and how their planning responsibilities should be carried out.

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