URL: https://democracy.northdevon.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=4392

Decision Maker: Strategy and Resources Committee

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: Councillors Milton and Patrinos declared other registerable interests in this item, but remained in the room during the consideration of the item as it was in relation to the endorsement of the Exmoor National Park Management Plan.   The Committee considered a report by the Senior Planning Officer (circulated previously) regarding the endorsement of the Exmoor National Park Management Plan.   The Head of Place, Property and Regeneration highlighted the following:   ·       The Exmoor National Park Authority had adopted a new Management Plan: Exmoor National Park Management Plan 2025 -2030 - The ‘Partnership Plan for Exmoor’ in July 2025 and have requested that their key partners, including North Devon Council, formally endorse the Plan. ·       As a ‘relevant authority' there was a legal duty on the Council to further the purposes of the National Park when making decisions or carrying out activities relating to or affecting land within the National Park (section 245 (Protected Landscapes) of the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023. In addition, government guidance also states that relevant authorities should consider participating in the preparation, review and implementation of the management plan.   In response to questions from the Committee, the Head of Place, Property and Regeneration advised the following:   ·       That the Economic Development Team worked closely with Exmoor National Park Authority and would raise the issues discussed by the Committee in relation to Lynton and Lynmouth’s reliance on tourism,  limited employment opportunities and reduction in population.   RESOLVED:   (a)  That the Exmoor National Park Management Plan 2025 – 2030 be endorsed. (b)   That the Council work with the Exmoor National Park Authority to ensure appropriate input from them and appropriately consider the impact on Exmoor during the review of the North Devon and Torridge Local Plan.

Date of Decision: November 3, 2025