Natural England is inviting views from the public on possible extensions to the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Parks.

The consultation seeks views on whether the four proposed extensions, which lie between the current borders of the two National Parks, have the qualities necessary to be in a National Park. Members of the public are also being asked whether they should be given National Park status and if so, where the boundaries should be drawn.

The proposed areas include, the Howgill Fells, Mallerstang and Wild Boar Fell, Middleton, Barbon and Leck Fells, Firbank Fell, Lower Lune Valley, Birkbeck Fells to Whinfell, Helsington Barrows to Sizergh Fell and the Lyth Valley.
The results of the consultation will help to inform future decisions made by Natural England on whether to designate any of the new areas for inclusion within the existing National Parks. Confirmation of any new boundaries would then be subject to approval by the Secretary of State for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs.

Natural England’s North West Regional Director, Liz Newton comments, “There are lots of ways for you to comment on our proposals and I would urge as many people as possible to please do so. We greatly value the public’s input on this and as the final decision has not yet been made, it’s vital for us to know what your opinions are.”

Ways to Get Involved
There are 2 meetings to choose from:

• Mon 18th January, Newbiggin-on-the-Lune Village Hall, 2.00pm.
• Thurs 4th February, Friends Meeting House, Stramongate, Kendal, 10.00am.
   

To book a place call Sophia on (0161) 273 8235 or email sophiahatfield@pathwayconsultancy.co.uk

There are a number of ways to take part in the consultation. The project website includes the facility for you to respond to the consultation online. It will also host electronic copies of the consultation documents which can be downloaded. You may also telephone 0161 273 8235 or email Natural England to order a free consultation pack.

Consultation packs will also be available in local libraries from 4th January 2010.

To find out more go to: www.lakestodaleslandscapes.org.uk

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