THE consultation deadline for an independent review of all national parks and Areas of Outstanding National Beauty (AONBs) in England is on Tuesday, December 18.

And Exmoor National Park Authority is encouraging all those who live and work in, enjoy or care for national parks to share their views

The review represents one of the most thorough appraisals of protected landscape designation since their founding nearly 70 years ago. It will look at how these national assets can be enhanced, better protected and enjoyed by all, as well as how those who live and work in them might be better supported.

The authority’s own response, published in draft form ahead of last week’s committee meeting, will call for more local influence over how farming delivers benefits for the environment and people.

It also wants better tools for monitoring and researching environmental and landscape change, and greater clarity around the role of national park authorities in fostering social and economic wellbeing among their communities.