The Dorset CPRE has backed National Park plans
A DORSET national park would benefit the whole of the rural council, according to a campaign group. A team is working to bring about National Park status for parts of Dorset.
Now, the Dorset branch of the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) has published its response to the Glover Review, an independent review on AONBs and National Parks being carried out by the government.
Dorset CPRE believes that the status would bring huge benefits for the county, but is also calling for the area included in proposed National Park to include the entire new unitary authority of rural Dorset area - including the Isle of Portland which is not currently in the outline area.
In its evidence to the Glover Review of Designated Landscapes, Dorset CPRE said: “A Dorset National Park (NP) would work for and benefit the whole of rural Dorset. It would bring additional resources and support the Dorset Council, in partnership with other stakeholders, to deliver on the environment and heritage, biodiversity and natural capital.
“The Dorset Council and the NP would work together on a shared agenda for living, working, thriving, resilient and sustainable communities, countryside and rural economy throughout rural Dorset. A NP would work with the Dorset Council, communities, farmers and landowners, to promote appropriate development, including housing for local people and truly affordable homes, and relevant economic development that rural Dorset needs.
“It could work with farmers and landowners to deliver locally relevant farm funding, and develop a coherent tourism strategy to help spread the season and benefit parts of Dorset that are under-appreciated as well as help manage tourism pressures, e.g. at coastal hot-spots.”
Not everyone is convinced of the benefits of a National Park. The CLA has raised questions over whether National Park status would do more for the county’s reputation than has already been achieved by the AONB and Jurassic Coast Heritage Site. They have also pointed out that planning applications within a National Park will be determined by councillors and individuals appointed by the Secretary of State. In AONBs the decision remains with elected local councillors.
Source: Dorset Echo