New funding for National Parks announced

England’s national parks are set to benefit from new funding announced by the government this week. £4.4m will be provided to the country’s ten National Park Authorities to support services such as visitor centres and park rangers.

The funding award is in recognition of the vital role that our national parks play in protecting our precious wildlife and landscapes and the importance they have for tourism, the regional economy, and public access. Each authority will be awarded an equal share of the grant.

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 £4.4m 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 Farming in Protected Landscapes scheme, currently delivered across ten National Parks and 34 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) since 2021, will be extended until March 2025.