Funding announced for National Parks

The government has announced £4.4 million of funding for England's national parks.

The funding will go to the ten National Park Authorities to support services including visitor centres and park rangers.

The money is to recognise the role that national parks play in protecting wildlife and landscapes and the importance they have for tourism, the regional economy, and public access.

Environment Secretary Thérèse Coffey said: "Our National Parks are the jewel in our cherished landscapes. They support thriving communities, economies, wildlife and are important places for public health and wellbeing.

"This additional £4.4 million of funding will support the important work that National Park Authorities do across our countryside, and allow local people and visitors to enjoy these much loved spaces."

The funding is intended to protect vital assets like education centres and ranger services and provide more opportunities for people to enjoy National Parks. The money can be spent on the creation of new trails, residential programmes and mobility schemes, as well as the support access and engagement programmes to help conserve the beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the the protected landscapes.

he 10 National Park Authorities to benefit from an equal share of the £4.4 million grant are: Broads, Dartmoor, Exmoor, Lake District, New Forest, North Yorkshire Moors, Northumberland, Peak District, South Downs and Yorkshire Dales.

Image by stuartpatterson280 from Pixabay