In a boost for lovers of the outdoors across the county, Jeremy Hunt MP has voiced strong support for the Surrey Hills to be nominated as a new National Park.
Jeremy's longstanding commitment to preserving green spaces has been a hallmark of his local campaigning to become the next Member of Parliament for Godalming and Ash. His dedication comes from a personal connection to the Surrey Hills, an area he describes as "stunningly beautiful" and a place he has enjoyed throughout his life having grown-up in the county and attended Charterhouse School in Godalming.
This passion led him to successfully persuade Natural England last year to consider extending the boundaries of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) alongside other Surrey MPs, now rebranded as a National Landscape, to include more of the Surrey Hills.
As the Chancellor, Jeremy has committed to prioritising funding for the search for a new National Park, underscoring the government's commitment to environmental preservation and public access to natural spaces. Although he acknowledges his position as an interested party prevents him from influencing the decision directly, his advocacy speaks volumes about his dedication to the cause.
Jeremy's efforts have culminated in a petition to make the Surrey Hills a National Park, a campaign that has garnered substantial public support. The petition offers residents and supporters a direct way to contribute to this green initiative.
This campaign not only highlights the beauty and ecological importance of the Surrey Hills, but also sets a precedent for how local leadership can mobilise national resources for the conservation of natural landscapes. As the responses to the consultation on the AONB extension are currently under review, there is hopeful anticipation for a positive outcome that will secure the Surrey Hills' future as a cherished national park.
Waverley Borough Councillor for Bramley & Wonersh, Cllr Jane Austin said:
"Jeremy has made significant achievements in this area, with years of dedicated campaigning leading to the current consultation on the Surrey Hills AONB extension.
"This consultation, the results of which are eagerly awaited in the coming months, promises to extend the boundaries of the Surrey Hills even further, offering enhanced protections for this magnificent area. Jeremy's work has been instrumental in advancing these conservation efforts, ensuring the Surrey Hills receive the recognition and safeguarding they deserve."
In rallying support for the Surrey Hills, Jeremy Hunt's efforts exemplify a profound commitment to enhancing green spaces for future generations.
You can sign the petition here to help the Surrey Hills achieve National Park status.
Pictured, Jeremy Hunt MP, Conservative candidate for Godalming and Ash
