Dales National Park expansion moves a step closer to fruition

Final recommendations will now go to the Secretary of State for approval. If they go through it will mark the end of a saga which has rumbled on for five years.

The project has already cost more than £150,000, despite Natural England facing cuts of £40m.

The decision is set to spark outcry among rural communities after leading councillors warned it would “dilute the character of the Dales”.

However, The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority (YDNPA) has welcomed the move.

YDNPA chief executive David Butterworth said last night: “We are delighted that Natural England’s Board is now taking forward the process to extend the boundary of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

“As part of this process, Natural England has undertaken extensive consultation and we are delighted that it shows that the majority of residents who responded are enthusiastic about the proposals and recognise the many and varied benefits that designation will bring.

“It’s a real victory for common sense in looking at National Park boundaries in terms of the quality of the landscape rather than outmoded and short-term administrative or political issues.

“We now look to the Government to recognise the points we made in our submission regarding providing the necessary funding to allow us to manage the new areas and to ensure appropriate representation for local communities on the National Park Authority.”

Natural England is looking to include beauty spots in Cumbria and Lancashire within the boundaries of the national park.

While it already includes part of Cumbria, it would be the first time that a small part of Lancashire would be included.

The national park would increase in size from 680 square miles to 842 square miles as a result.

Poul Christensen, chairman of Natural England, said: “The board’s decision is the result of many years of detailed assessment work and public consultation. It represents an important opportunity to ensure that these special landscapes are looked after for future generations to enjoy.”