Peak District Priorities

During a walk on the trails in Macclesfield Forest, local MP, David Rutley, had the opportunity to meet, Phil Mulligan, the new Chief Executive of the Peak District National Park Authority, to discuss his priorities and future plans for the National Park.

At the top of the agenda was Mr Mulligan’s aim to continue protecting the much-loved landscapes in the National Park and to promote sustainable transport to and from the Peak District. Looking at more sustainable travel options for visitors from neighbouring towns and cities is essential to limit air pollution and improve air quality around the Peak District, and help to tackle climate change.

During the meeting, David and Mr Mulligan also discussed how best to encourage new visitors to enjoy and be inspired by all that the National Park has to offer, while at the same time respecting the beautiful countryside. This is particularly important after the pandemic saw more people come to the Peak District. David was pleased to hear that a number of schools in the Macclesfield area have taken part in a range of activities provided by the Learning and Discovery Team at Macclesfield Forest.

Macclesfield is very fortunate to have the Peak District on its doorstep and is a natural gateway for more people to visit the Park. The Peak District National Park is 555 square miles (1,438 square kilometres) in size, and covers parts of the counties of Derbyshire and Staffordshire, as well as Cheshire.

Mr Mulligan has moved to the Authority, following four years as a Director at the Canal & River Trust and takes over the role from Sarah Fowler, who had been in position since 2015. Mr Mulligan has an extensive background across the voluntary and environmental sectors having held executive and board positions in organisations ranging from The Conservation Volunteers (TCV), the United Nations Association UK, the Landscape Institute, Environmental Protection UK and as a member of the National Trust’s Council.

Speaking after the meeting, David said “It was grateful for the chance to meet Mr Mulligan and to discuss his aims and plans for the Peak District for the months and years ahead. It was a great opportunity to introduce him to the unique countryside at Macclesfield Forest and celebrate the beauty of the Cheshire Peak District.  I look forward to continuing to work with Mr Mulligan on plans to protect our local landscapes and seek to find more sustainable transport solutions.”

Pictured - David Rutley MP with Phil Mulligan.