Exmoor National Park Management Plan launched in lead up to Exmoor Day

Adopted in July and developed as a “Partnership Plan for Exmoor”, the document outlines how the National Park and its partners will respond to global and local challenges and sets out a vision for a thriving, nature-rich Exmoor .

In order to tackle climate, nature and rural economic challenges, while embracing new opportunities for communities and businesses, the Plan underwent extensive consultation with residents, stakeholders, and partner organisations.

It sets out interconnected aims aligning with national Government priorities for Protected Landscapes and reflecting the voices of those who live in, work in, visit and care for Exmoor.

These include:

A Nature-Rich Landscape – Enhancing biodiversity and restoring habitats, including 4,500 hectares of wildlife-rich habitat by 2030.

A Net Zero National Park – Tackling climate change through reducing carbon emissions, peatland restoration, expanding woodland and tree cover from 18 to 21% of the National Park by 2030 and sustainable land use.

A Cared-for Landscape and Heritage – Protecting Exmoor’s natural beauty, tranquillity, and cultural heritage, including reducing the number of heritage assets at risk.

A Welcoming Place for All – Improving access, health, and wellbeing through inclusive experiences and community engagement  , with a particular focus on young people.

A Great Place to Live, Work and Do Business – Supporting sustainable rural livelihoods and local enterprise.

Cllr Andrea Davis, Chairman of Exmoor National Park Authority, said:

" As one of 15 UK National Parks, Exmoor is a national asset. This Plan is a rallying call to everyone who cares about Exmoor, to come together to help this special place thrive for future generations. We’re committed to collaborating with our partners, to unlock the full potential of our National Park for both nature and people. Collaboration is at the heart of this Plan’s success."

Sarah Bryan, Chief Executive of Exmoor National Park Authority, said:

"We’re facing some real challenges, from the climate emergency to the nature crisis and our local communities and businesses are navigating significant pressures. Yet, with these challenges come real opportunities. By working together, we can create local jobs, retain wealth within communities, and improve health and wellbeing through deeper connections with nature. Our vision is for Exmoor to be greener, wilder, more inclusive and a place where communities flourish."

While facilitated by Exmoor National Park Authority, the Plan is a true partnership effort. It brings together farmers, landowners, conservation groups, business voices, residents and communities and other public bodies and Local Authorities working in the area.

The plan is designed to co-ordinate delivery between partners to further the statutory purposes of the National Park:

• To conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the area
• To promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of its special qualities by the public

You can find a user-friendly summary of the Plan and supporting resources, at www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk/management-plan