Peak District National Park Authority seeks new members

People with specialist experience in engaging with businesses commercially or skills in fund raising and sponsorship to grow engagement and support for the National Park are being sought to become new Members of the Peak District National Park Authority.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is inviting applications from suitably experienced people to be appointed to the Authority’s governing body by the Secretary of State. The deadline is Wednesday March 22.

Authority Members are made up of eight Secretary of State appointees, 16 councillors from the county, city and district councils in the national park and six parish councillors representing the 125 parishes in the national park.

Secretary of State Members are appointed for their specific expertise in different aspects of the national park, and their specialist knowledge and insight is invaluable in decision-making.

Chair of the Authority Lesley Roberts said: “We are looking for passionate and committed people who want to be involved in shaping the strategic direction of the Peak District National Park and put it at the heart of how we think about the environment.

“We want people to apply who would like to play a leading role in conserving and enhancing the natural beauty and special qualities of this treasured landscape to make it one of the best in the world.

“This is an opportunity to make a real contribution to our wonderful National Park, to act as an ambassador, championing its landscapes and communities, and help manage it for future generations.”

Two new Secretary of State appointees are needed to take the places of Emma Sayer who resigned last year when she relocated and Suzanne Leckie who will reach the end of her second 4-year term on the Authority on March 31.

Members devote an estimated three days a month to Authority business, serving on committees or attending workshops or training. They must promote the conservation, understanding and enjoyment of the national park and support the social and economic well-being of local communities. The posts are non-salaried, though Members may claim certain allowances and expenses.

The deadline for applications is March 22 and interviews will take place in April. The initial appointment will start on July 1 for up to four years, though this may be extended.

For details of how to apply, go to: www.publicappointments.cabinetoffice.gov.uk or phone Jason Spencer, democratic services manager 01629 816344 or email jason.spencer@peakdistrict.gov.uk