Lake District National Park Status
keswick and skiddaw in the lake district at sunrise with an inversion
Originally uploaded by ac_hardman
A common question at Higher level is to describe and explain the conflicts of interest arising from the multiple use of national parks. Candidates are then asked how national park status helps. I suspect quite a few Higher pupils are not familiar with the ways in wich national parks work. Take the Lake District. The Lake District National Park Authority is an independent local authority and part of the local government in the Lake District. It does some of the work that is done by the County and District Councils outside the National Park.
The LDNP was established to conserve and enhance the Lake District’s natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage; and promote the public’s understanding and enjoyment of the National Park’s special qualities. Its aims:
to ensure that developments and activities are not harmful
to encourage responsible countryside access
to inform and educate visitors and local people about conservation issues and foster the economic and social well-being of the local communities.
as the Planning Authority for the National Park the LDNPA
runs information and educational services,
maintains rights of way and a wide range of properties: car parks; woodland; moorland and mountains
Among the key areas of the LDNPA’s latest plan are:
Rising to the challenge of climate change
Local employment and affordable housing
Renewable energy targets set for new developments
The needs of larger communities, including Keswick and Windermere, and smaller dispersed settlements, such as Underbarrow, Bampton Grange and Bootle Station, will be addressed.
Commercial redevelopment and regeneration sites have been flagged up around Windermere’s waterfront.
Sustainable transport eg: local park and ride sites linked to visitor attractions
World Heritage Status
