Ramblers' Association warns that recreation must be a key issue for new Government agency
[23 March 2005]
The Ramblers' Association (RA) today gave a cautious welcome
to the new name for the Government agency taking on the
functions of English Nature, parts of the Countryside Agency and
the Rural Development Service.
‘Natural England’ will be the new name, reflecting the wide
range of activities to be undertaken by the new body. The RA is
concerned, however, by the similarity of this name to that of
English Nature.
Nick Barrett, Chief Executive of the RA, said, “The new agency
is about far more than simply repackaging English Nature.
Natural England will have a key role to play in securing access
to the natural environment and encouraging people to use, enjoy,
and better understand England’s marvellous countryside and green
spaces.
“We look forward to working with Natural England, and trust that
it will become a real champion for access and outdoor
recreation, to government and beyond.”