Carl Lis OBE, chair of the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority (YDNPA), has been elected chair of National Parks England, the body which represents the ten national park authorities in England.
Mr Lis, who will continue in his current role as chair of the YDNPA, said he was proud of the work done by national park authorities across the country.
Mr Lis said: “We are a strong network responsible for caring for these extraordinary places.
“With the major challenges faced by society, from climate change and nature recovery, to the future of farming and sustaining health and well-being our National Parks have a vital role to play.
“The expertise to be found in our National Parks is palpable. As I look ahead, there are undoubtedly challenges but I believe they are dwarfed by the many opportunities.”
“During 2019 we celebrated the 70th anniversary of the legislation that created national parks.
“Looking to the future, they are increasingly important and relevant to the nation as we tackle some of society’s most pressing issues.
“We want to see our National Parks protected and enhanced, with a strong connection to the public so that everyone can value and care for these inspiring and beautiful landscapes. With a General Election around the corner National Parks England looks forward to working with a future Government to ensure this happens.”
