• What is Mosaic trying to achieve and why?
• Who are the Mosaic Partners?
• Organisational Change
• Getting involved with the Mosaic Partnership
• What is a National Park?
• Where are the National Parks?
• Example visits to National Parks by community groups
• Accommodation in National Parks
• Contact Us
• Useful Links

What is a National Park?

Y Lliwedd peak, Snowdonia National Park

National Parks are substantial areas of land, sometimes remote, with wide open spaces large enough to provide the public with opportunities for outdoor recreation. National Parks are designated because of their landscape quality, wildlife and their value as a recreational resource.

They are open to everyone and provide opportunities for all to enjoy the landscapes, wildlife and recreation opportunities.

Why were the National Parks created?

The National Parks were created as part of the Post World War II re-establishment process and aimed to bring long-term protection to areas of beautiful countryside which were highly valued for physical and spiritual refreshment.

Who owns the National Parks?

 

Mosaic Group Leader Visit,
North York Moors National Park, August 2005

Although some land within the Parks is managed by the National Park Authority, National Park status does not automatically signify national ownership of the land as in other countries such as the USA. Within a National Park the majority of land is owned by farmers and other private landowners including conservation organisations such as the National Trust.

National Park purposes

The statutory purposes¹ of National Parks are:

• to conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the National Parks;
• to promote opportunities for the public understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the Parks.

In those cases where conflict exists between the two purposes and reconciliation proves impossible, the first purpose should take precedence. This is known as the Sandford Principle.

National Park Authorities

National Park Authorities (NPAs) are the bodies charged with the achievement of National Park purposes. They are members of the local government family as well as being independent, special purpose authorities established to act in the best interests of the National Parks and to encourage others to do the same.

(left) Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
(right) Pen y fan and Corn Du, Brecon Beacons National Park