The DPA were delighted to be able to meet with the APPG on National Parks in Westminster yesterday to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Dartmoor as it balances Nature Recovery, Access, statutory duties and the needs of the future. Representing the DPA were, CEO Tom usher, Vice-chair Kate Ashbrook and trustee Amita Raval.

We spoke to Parliamentarians and members of the House of Lords, including Caroline Voaden MP for Totnes, who takes a great interest in Dartmoor. Issues under discussion were the potential of Biodiversity Net Gain in National Parks and the role the National Parks can play in the UK’s response to climate change. Our DPA Trustee Amita Raval spoke powerfully on the personal impact that National Parks and access to nature can have. All agreed that a critical element in the future of National Parks is engagement of the next generation of conservationists, leaders and volunteers.

Thank you to Barry Gardiner MP for inviting us and chairing and to the Campaign for National Parks for convening . We look forward to working with the APPG to support them to play an active, constructive role in championing this work and ensuring that these landscapes remain thriving, resilient, and open to everyone.