Could you be a Future Leader of England’s Protected Landscapes?
Consider applying to join Defra’s National Park Authorities and National Landscape Conservation Boards across England and help to shape the future of the landscapes.
From Defra:
“We’ve just launched one of Defra’s most significant public appointment campaigns — seeking 30 new members for National Park Authorities and National Landscape Conservation Boards across England.
These are influential roles at the heart of shaping the future of some of our most iconic and treasured landscapes. From nature recovery and climate resilience to inclusive access and rural economic development, members will help deliver real change on the ground.
Protected Landscapes are our most iconic and inspiring places. They were created from 1949, with post-war Britain recognising everyone has a right to access the countryside – from Northumberland’s dark skies to the South Downs’ Seven Sisters. 75 years on, the needs are greater than ever, with nature underpinning our health, economy and climate. That’s why this government will empower Protected Landscapes to become greener, wilder and more accessible.
Covering 25% of England, but half of our priority habitats, Protected Landscapes organisations are essential to nature’s recovery and restoration. They also lead the way on many cross-cutting priorities. To work on Protected Landscapes is to work on flood prevention, affordable house building, water quality, health inequalities, sustainable food production, green jobs and so much more. As a member, your vision will shape the future of these landscapes, and therefore the country. You’ll accelerate delivery of our statutory biodiversity targets and international commitment to protect 30% of nature by 2030. You’ll do this by collaborating with local communities, farmers, land managers and public bodies to ensure that these living landscapes thrive for people and nature.
We want to create conditions for success, innovation and collaboration that create new opportunities and resources for Protected Landscapes.
In recognising their importance to the nation, we have committed to reinvigorating Protected Landscapes with new legislation, targets and tools. Members will help shape this bold new deal for Protected Landscapes, so by applying you could be part of something huge. We need dynamic people, with diverse skills and experiences, who will take innovative approaches.
You will also play a vital role in promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion by finding ways to connect people with diverse skills from all walks of life with nature. These landscapes belong to everyone, and it is crucial that Protected Landscapes reflect the diversity of our nation.
The deadline for applications is midday on 19 May 2025.”
