APPG discusses sustainable tourism in UK National Parks

The All Party Parliamentary Group on National Parks met recently to discuss sustainable tourism in National Parks. The packed meeting - attended by 18 parliamentary representatives - heard about the growing and economically valuable tourism sector in Britain, and how the National Park Authorities are encouraging visitors to enjoy National Parks in a responsible way.

The expert speakers at the meeting included David Green, Convener of the Cairngorms NPA; Richard Tyler, Sustainable Development Manager at the Brecon Beacons NPA; and James Berresford, CEO of Visit England. Parliamentarians had an opportunity to listen and ask questions about the various programmes that NPAs are engaging in, from branding and business partnerships with the private sector to visitor payback schemes and ambassador training.

A brochure was circulated with sustainable tourism case studies from each of the UK National Park Authorities. You can download the brochure using the link below.

The All Party Parliamentary Group recently held its AGM, including the election of officers as follows:

Chair         Clive Betts MP
Vice Chair  David Rutley MP
Vice Chair  Roger Williams MP
Secretary   Alun Michael MP

The Group continues to go from strength to strength, and now has almost 60 members. The next meeting is due to take place in November 2010. ENPAA, along with the Campaign for National Parks, provides secretarial assistance to the Group.

Download the sustainable tourism case studies