A new chief executive has officially taken up the reins at the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority.
James Blake has started work in the role after joining the authority from YHA (England & Wales), where he had served as chief executive since 2017.
During his first weeks in the job, Mr Blake plans to meet staff, members, farmers, land managers, partner organisations and communities across the Yorkshire Dales.
The new chief executive said his immediate priority would be listening to those who live and work in the National Park and gaining a greater understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the area.
He said: “I am delighted to be starting work at the authority and to have the opportunity to work alongside the people who care so passionately about this special place.
“My immediate priority is to listen and build a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing the Dales.
“Over the coming weeks I want to spend as much time as possible meeting colleagues, partners, farmers, local communities and volunteers, understanding their perspectives and learning more about the work already underway across the National Park.”
Mr Blake said he was looking forward to helping deliver the National Park Management Plan and recently adopted Local Plan, as well as supporting work on nature, climate, access, heritage and rural communities.
Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority chair Derek Twine welcomed the appointment.
He said: “It’s great to welcome James to the authority. His experience, leadership and commitment to partnership working will be a tremendous asset as we continue working with communities and partners to conserve and enhance this special landscape.”
Mr Twine said the new chief executive would spend the coming months visiting projects and communities across the National Park, as well as engaging with the wider network of National Parks and protected landscapes across the UK.
He also thanked Gary Smith, who has served as acting chief executive for the past six months, as well as the authority’s senior leadership team for helping ensure a smooth transition.
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