Caroline Quentin joins as our President

Published: 8 September 2016

“National Parks need to remain relevant – don’t pickle them in aspic”

On becoming President of Campaign for National Parks, Caroline Quentin said, “I’m thrilled and excited to be working with this important charity. I think National Parks are a valuable national asset and I want to encourage everyone to use them and enjoy them. They need to be protected for future generations.”

Caroline Quentin lives just outside Exmoor National Park in the South West and has always loved the outdoors and countryside.

The Parks contain some of our most beautiful countryside, treasured heritage and rare wildlife. And 90% of people say National Parks are important to them. However, since they were first created in the 1950s, damaging planning proposals for mines, roads and other large scale developments have been allowed to go ahead, chipping away at their protected status.

Speaking about the challenges National Parks faced, Caroline continued, “They need to remain relevant. I don’t think they should be pickled in aspic. The Parks need to change with the times so they meet the needs of our children and our children’s children. During my time as President, my mission will be to make the National Parks even more beautiful, lived in and loved than they are now.”

Fiona Howie, chief executive of Campaign for National Parks, said “We are delighted to be working with Caroline. What a fantastic asset she will be to Campaign for National Parks! Especially this year which is our 80th anniversary.  Campaign for National Parks has achieved much over the decades but there is still much to do. The Parks and the rural communities that live within them still face threats and challenges and we need to champion these beautiful places. Working with Caroline will help us make sure National remain relevant and used for many years to come.” I know Caroline will do much to help us do that.”