National Park

A Mourne National Park?

In 2002, EHS commissioned a study on the potential benefits of establishing one or more National Parks in Northern Ireland. The study identified a number of areas worthy of designation and concluded that the Mourne area was best suited for designation as Northern Ireland's first National Park. Following this study, the former Minister of the Environment, Mr Dermot Nesbitt, announced his intention to progress towards a Mourne National Park. The current Minister, Mrs Arlene Foster MLA, is considering the proposal.

What is a National Park?

The term National Park is used to describe different models of protected areas throughout the world - from vast areas of uninhabited wilderness in the USA, to smaller, lightly populated areas in England and Wales where the landscape is partly a product of traditional farming practices. However, the main concept behind most National Parks throughout the world is one of conservation and facilitating enjoyment of outstanding natural areas for the good of the nation as a whole.

As yet, a model for National Parks in Northern Ireland has not been chosen. It would need to suit our particular circumstances, and would be shaped through the process of public consultation. It should be acceptable to local communities, but must also do justice to the significance of a National Park designation.

Why do we need a National Park in the Mourne Area?

• Due to its natural beauty, the Mourne landscape is coming under increasing pressure. More and more people want to live in the area or visit it for recreational purposes. However there is a real danger that inappropriate development and uncontrolled recreation will damage the qualities which make this sensitive area so special. This could have far reaching implications for the environment, cultural heritage and economy of the area.
• The proposal for a Mourne National Park would seek to address these issues by:
• Identifying the fact that this is one of the most outstanding landscapes in Northern Ireland and underlining the sense of pride which we have in the Mourne area, both locally and nationally.
• Highlighting the fact that the special qualities of the Mourne area are easily damaged and need to be carefully managed to safeguard then for the future generations.
• Identifying the fact that this is one of the most outstanding landscapes in Northern Ireland and underlining the sense of pride which we have in the Mourne area, both locally and nationally.
• Highlighting the fact that the special qualities of the Mourne area are easily damaged and need to be carefully managed to safeguard then for the future generations.
• Enabling people to work together, so that a more co-ordinated approach to the management of the area can be taken.
• Allowing local people to become more involved in decisions affecting the area in which they live and work.
• Helping to attract national and international funding to strengthen the environment, culture and economy of the local area.
• Recognising the importance of the Mourne area by using the National Park 'label'. This term is known throughout the world and could help to attract investment and tourism to the Mourne area. However, this would need to be carefully planned to ensure that it is done in a sustainable manner.

How is the proposal for a Mourne National Park being taken forward?

Although current Northern Ireland legislation allows for the creation of National Parks, it does not provide an adequate basis for their management. Therefore, in order to designate a Mourne National Park, or any other National Park in Northern Ireland, new primary legislation is required. The Department published a discussion paper on National Park policy and legislation in October 2004.
Once the new National Park legislation is in place, it will then be possible for the Department to proceed with the designation of a Mourne National Park, if appropriate.