Protected landscapes to be strengthened with new legislation and guidance to protect nature
16th December 2024
National Parks and National Landscapes empowered to deliver more for people and nature with new legislation pledged.
- This marks the 75th anniversary of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act, which created our National Parks and National Landscapes
- This move comes amid the Government’s push to promote access to nature, as part of the wider Plan for Change
Environment Secretary Steve Reed said:
“It’s seventy-five years since our National Parks and National Landscapes were created, and they have done incredible work protecting some of our most treasured and beautiful landscapes.
“But so much of our countryside and wildlife is in decline so we must do more to protect it. To mark this anniversary the Government will introduce new laws to boost protections for the natural world, strengthen our National Parks and National Landscapes and increase opportunities for millions of people to enjoy the great outdoors.”
Kathy Atkinson, Chair of the Surrey Hills National Landscape said.
“I am delighted that the new Government recognises the importance our National Landscapes and we look forward to receiving our strengthened purposes. During this 75th anniversary year we are continuing to work with a whole range of partners to help the Surrey Hills thrive for nature and people. But we know there is so much more to be done to lead nature’s recovery, to strengthen our connection to the land and the landscape, and to rise to the challenge of climate change. We want National Landscapes to be at the forefront of this vision, which is as relevant today as it was when the Act received royal assent on this day in 1949.”
Alongside this news, we are thrilled to share that we’ve received over 1,000 responses to our Shaping the Surrey Hills survey! Your input will play a vital role in shaping our 75-year vision for the Surrey Hills, helping us craft a greener, wilder, and more accessible National Landscape as part of our upcoming management plan.