New national parks legislation gets the green light

Environment Minister Sammy Wilson has outlined his plans to his Executive colleagues for new enabling legislation which will pave the way for national parks in Northern Ireland.

After the summer recess detailed proposals setting out a policy framework for national parks will be submitted to the Executive for consideration.

The Minister's vision for a national park model is one that fulfils Northern Ireland's specific needs. The legislative proposals that the Minister envisages will set out the purpose and aims of national parks, including the promotion of economic and social development.

The proposals will also cover criteria for identifying potential national parks and a clear and rational process by which parks would be designated; along with management and funding arrangements - and any duties and powers that a National Park might have.

Mr Wilson said: "Some people believe a national park should be a highly protected area, devoid of people and human activity. Whilst that model is fine for some countries it is not right for Northern Ireland."

National Parks in England, Wales and Scotland have brought substantial environmental and economic benefits. The Minister believes tha! t his planned approach for Northern Ireland has the potential to increase the growth opportunities offered by rural areas and will help maximise their contribution to Northern Ireland plc.

Addressing concerns about national parks the Minister said: "So far the National Parks debate has been dominated by the question of a Mournes National Park. Some people have suggested that a National Park would restrict development, that it would interfere with land ownership, rural life or farm practices, or that it would mean open access to private land.

"It is therefore important that I clarify some of the things that I do not intend to! propose. I have no plans for any particular area; that will be a deci sion for the future once the enabling legislation is in place.

"I do not plan to give a national park management body planning powers although we may wish to consider whether it should have a consultative role in relation to development proposals.

"I do not envisage a management body having unnecessary regulatory powers or the power to compulsorily acquire land.!

"Finally I have no intention of creating a right to roam in national parks."

The Minister concluded: "By focusing attention on an area through the mechanism of a national park, we can give its community opportunities to make the most of its environmental and economic assets.

"Ultimately the character of any particular national park will depend on the body running the park in consultation with the community and with the farming, business, environmental and other interests."

Notes to Editors:

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