YORKSHIRE Dales National Park chairman Carl Lis has been elected chairman of National Parks England, the body which represents the 10 NPAs in England.

This key appointment comes as the country faces a climate emergency and follows the recent release of the independent Review of Designated Landscapes.

This calls for bold action in national parks to protect and enhance the natural environment and encourage greater use of England’s national parks.

Mr Lis, who is also a Craven district councillor and lives in Ingleton said: “I am immensely proud of the work that the National Park Authorities do, both in my home Yorkshire Dales and across the country.

“We are a strong network responsible for caring for these extraordinary places.

“With the major challenges faced by society, from climate change and nature recovery, to the future of farming and sustaining health and well-being our Parks have a vital role to play.

“The expertise to be found is palpable. As I look ahead, there are undoubtedly challenges but I believe they are dwarfed by the many opportunities.

“During 2019 we celebrated the 70th anniversary of the legislation that created national parks.

“Looking to the future, they are increasingly important and relevant to the nation as we tackle some of society’s most pressing issues.

“We want to see our national parks protected and enhanced, with a strong connection to the public so that everyone can value and care for these inspiring and beautiful landscapes.

“With a General Election around the corner National Parks England looks forward to working with a future Government to ensure this happens.”

Mr Lis said he will continue as chairman of the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority.