Campaign calls for Somerset Levels National Park status

CPRE Somerset, part of the countryside charity Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE), has launched the proposal as part of the organisation’s centenary celebrations, following months of discussions with key stakeholders in the region.

The charity is now seeking the views of the public and will host a Question Time-style event to explore the idea in more depth.

It will take place at Glastonbury Town Hall at 7.30pm on Thursday, October 1.

Becky Collier, CPRE Somerset manager, said: “A Somerset Levels National Park is a big idea, but isn’t it about time we did something big to celebrate and protect this unique and wonderful place?

“We know it will be a long and complex road to try to get National Park status, and we are just at the very beginning.

“It’s important that local people have a voice in the process.

“That’s why we want as many people as possible to come along on the night to ask questions – and to listen to each other’s ideas.

“We look forward to seeing you there.”

The event will focus on the unique qualities of the Somerset Levels and examine what National Park status could mean for the landscape, nature, and local communities.

CPRE chair Simon Murray will host the event.

The panel will include representatives from the farming community, Somerset Wildlife Trust, Somerset Eel Recovery Project, Visit Somerset, and The Somerset Leveller magazine.

Guests will discuss the possible benefits and impacts of National Park designation, and members of the public are encouraged to attend with questions and an open mind.

The event is free to attend, but booking is recommended.

More information about the campaign, including frequently asked questions, a public survey, and personal essays from residents, is available on the CPRE Somerset website.

CPRE has campaigned for countryside protection for 100 years and played a key role in the creation of the UK’s National Parks.