National Parks

Extensive tracts of the countryside in England that have been given protection under the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 to conserve and enhance their special qualities. National Parks have a high level of protection against inappropriate development through the planning system.

The two statutory purposes of the National Parks' designation are:

• To conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of their areas; and

• To promote opportunities for the public understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of their areas.

If there is a conflict between the two, conservation takes precedence (the "Sandford" principle). In carrying out these two main responsibilities, the National Park Authority has a duty to seek to foster the social and economic well-being of local communities.

The Norfolk Broads have a status very similar to a National Park but, the Broads Authority was established under its own Act of Parliament, the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads Act 1988. In addition, the Act also sets down the need for the Broads Authority to have regard to the needs of agriculture and forestry and the economic and social interest of those who live or work in the Broads.

There are currently eight National Parks in England, which together with the Broads, cover around 8% of the English landscape:

• Dartmoor (created - 1951).

• Exmoor (created - 1954).

• Lake District (created - 1951).

• Northumberland (created - 1956).

• North York Moors (created - 1952).

• Peak District (created - 1951).

• Yorkshire Dales (created - 1954).

• The Broads (created - 1989).

• The New Forest (created - 1 March 2005).