GOVERNMENT proposals on nature recovery, climate, and equity, including an aim to protect 30 per cent of land for nature by 2030, have been welcomed by Exmoor National Park Authority.

It comes ahead of next year's 75th anniversary of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act, which legally safeguarded precious landscapes such as Exmoor.

The Government is acting as part of new legislation in the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill, to accelerate the recovery of nature in England’s national parks and areas of outstanding natural beauty (AONBs). 

Exmoor authority chief executive Sarah Bryan said: “We are delighted to see the House of Lords debate and written Ministerial statement on the strengthening of partner requirements and contributions across protected landscape management plans, as part of the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill.

“Throughout our work, we are already fully committed to projects focussed on nature recovery, widening access to nature, and tackling climate change.

“Whether it is encouraging our ‘Young Rangers’ in nature-engagement activities, biodiversity net gain support in local development, switching to carbon neutral power sources in our depots and outdoor education centre, or working with farmers and land managers to support sustainable farm business, we welcome support and intent that helps us deliver a healthier, fairer, and ultimately zero-carbon environment.”

A statement released by Environment Secretary Therese Coffey announced the Government would shortly be publishing the ‘outcomes framework’ to define the contribution that AONBs and national parks should make to national targets through working together.

Ms Bryan said: “We look forward to seeing the new outcomes framework and working with Government, to ensure that Exmoor National Park plays a significant part in meeting our target to protect 30 per cent of land for nature by 2030.”