Members of the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority have approved a move to appoint two young people to represent the views of young people living, working and using the National Park, on an influential steering group.
They will join representatives from the Environment Agency, Natural England, the Dales Rural Estates, Farmer and Tourism networks and District Councils on the National Park Management Plan Steering Group. This partnership is responsible for setting the long term goals for the National Park and for overseeing a five-year programme of work by a range of local organisations.
Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority Chair, Neil Heseltine said: “Many organisations have a key objective to promote the National Park as a place to live for younger working age households to help halt the decline in their number.
“By appointing two young people to the National Park Management Plan Steering Group, our plan of work will be shaped by the very young people we are trying to attract. It’s a positive step forward and one which was enthusiastically received by the full membership of the National Park Authority and our partners on the Steering Group”.
“I look forward to welcoming our two new steering group members next year”.
The Yorkshire Dales National Park Management Plan 2019-24 contains 49 specific objectives for a range of bodies to achieve including tackling climate change, supporting farmers and landowners through national agri-environment schemes and to promote the National Park as a place to live for younger, working age households.
A real statement of intent – well done YDNPA in recognising the value of younger people. Their opinions, views and aspirations are going to add value to the whole debate of future direction of travel within the park & and its management.
As a fully paid up member of the “Male, Pale and Stale” club, I can only look forward to the involvement of the next generation.