PARWICH.ORG

The following was received today:

NEWS RELEASE FROM THE PEAK DISTRICT NATIONAL PARK AUTHORITY
PR 522 – 02 September 2008

Call for new Member of Peak District National Park Authority.

The Peak District National Park Authority needs a new member of its governing body to help make strategic decisions for the next four years.

Environment Secretary Hilary Benn is inviting applications from suitably-qualified candidates to take over when a current member, Leigh Rix, steps down in March 2009 due to work commitments.

The 30-strong membership is the ruling body of the National Park Authority, with 16 members appointed by local district, borough, metropolitan or county councils and 14 by the Secretary of State (eight for their specialist knowledge and six to represent parish councils). 

This vacancy is among those with specialist knowledge of national park or regional issues. This could include anything from conservation to planning, cultural heritage, sustainable development, recreational strategy, land management or economic development.

They will be expected to reflect national interests in their decision-making while understanding and connecting with the local area.

Applicants with knowledge of strategic planning, young people or the rural economy are particularly welcomed to apply. Applications are encouraged from younger people, disabled people and ethnic minorities.

The appointment will initially be for four years, with the option of re-appointment for a period up to ten years.

An allowance, plus expenses and travel-costs to meetings, will be payable to the successful candidate. Members are expected to commit two or three days to the Authority per month.

National Park Authorities are responsible for planning in their areas, and work to conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage. They also help promote understanding and enjoyment of national parks through education, information, free guided walks and ensuring access to rights of way.

Application forms and further details can be obtained from: Liz Bingham, Natural England, John Dower House, Crescent Place, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 3RA (tel: 01242 533297 or e-mail: np2009.appointments@naturalengland.org.uk )

Alternatively information and application forms can be found online at www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/appointments/index.htm

Applications close on Monday, October 20.

Readers of PARWICH.ORG might like to think about anyone living in the area who might be interested in applying.  We consider it is important that as many as possible of the National Park Board are Park residents.