The attack took place ahead of the EU elections, with political leaders expressing shock and condemnation
The Liberal Democrats have pledged to create three new national parks in England as part of their manifesto commitment for the upcoming election. This would expand the current number of national parks from 10 to 13, with the party proposing an annual £50 million investment in maintaining these parks.
Among the areas under consideration for the new parks are the Chilterns in Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire, the Mendips, the Cotswolds, and the Quantocks. Other potential locations include the Surrey Hills, Northumberland coast, and Dorset.
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey expressed his enthusiasm for the plan, stating: “Our National Parks are some of the most beautiful parts of our country, and that’s why I’m delighted that Liberal Democrats will create three new National Parks across England.” He also criticised the Conservative government for failing to follow through on their 2019 promise to establish a new national park.
Davey highlighted the importance of natural spaces for families and communities, stressing that National Parks make a significant difference in people’s lives and should be preserved for future generations. He added, “Liberal Democrats promise to create new National Parks, which could include areas like the Chilterns, as well as ensuring that our existing parks, beloved by people across the country, are protected for generations to come.”
Currently, England boasts 10 national parks, including popular sites like the Lake District, Dartmoor, and the Peak District. The Lib Dems’ proposal to create three new parks aligns with their broader environmental agenda, which also includes a commitment to plant 60 million trees annually, reversing the decline in tree planting that has occurred in recent decades.
In addition to expanding national parks, the Liberal Democrats have committed to banning onshore oil and gas drilling in national parks and other protected landscapes, further prioritising conservation efforts.
