I would like to tell you about an exciting transformation that is happening in the way communities are supported in the National Park.

 

The National Park Authority put forward a proposal to the National Park Community Partnership to significantly increase its independent role in providing support services to community organisations in the Park, as well as delivering projects. And I am delighted to say that the Community Partnership approved our proposal yesterday.

 

The National Park Authority will provide the Partnership with funding of £35,000 to accommodate and deliver this transition. With funding secure, the Partnership will now be able to increase its staff and deliver community events including Area Networks, the annual Community Gathering, training events and other services and projects, which have previously been facilitated by National Park staff.

 

I see this as the Community Partnership fulfilling the destiny we always envisaged for it in becoming an independent organisation, able to draw on numerous funding sources to support community development in the Park.

 

The National Park Authority will continue to support the communities of the Park through our main areas of focus: Conservation, Visitor Experience and Rural Development.

 

In Conservation, the Natural Heritage Grant Scheme has now delivered projects across every community council area in the Park and has significantly contributed to rural development. In Visitor Experience, the National Park has led the successful Operation Ironworks alongside the Police which has greatly enhanced the safety and tranquillity of the National Park. The UK’s largest Ranger service continues to work in and around our busiest hotspots in the summer months. Our focus on Rural Development not only includes this exciting communities initiative building on the award winning work of the Community Futures programme but funds and supports our exemplary planning service serving the needs of all the communities of the Park with over 85% of all planning applications approved.

 

We are entering an exciting new phase in the development of our communities over the coming years. I am certain the Partnership will grow from strength to strength as it continues its good work in running projects and making this Park a more special place for our residents and visitors alike.

 

Warm regards