New Secretary of State member announced

The Peak District National Park Authority is governed by 30 members with 14 of them appointed directly by the Secretary of State, specifically through the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

Members play a vital role in overseeing the strategic management of the National Park, contributing to decisions on planning, nature recovery, climate resilience, conservation, accessibility and sustainable tourism. They also act as ambassadors for the Peak District, working collaboratively with local communities, partner organisations and stakeholders.

The Peak District National Park Authority is delighted to welcome new Secretary of State member Sara Javid.

Sara said: “I am delighted to be taking up this role and to have the opportunity to contribute to the future of the Peak District National Park. Having spent much of my career working in public health, I have a strong appreciation of the relationship between our environment, our health and our quality of life. National Parks are an important part of our wider health infrastructure. They provide opportunities for physical activity, support mental wellbeing, connect people with nature and contribute to healthier communities.

“I am particularly interested in how we can make these benefits accessible to everyone. We know that access to green space and opportunities to enjoy the natural environment are not equally distributed, and that this is closely linked to wider health inequalities. I believe National Parks have an important role to play in prevention, improving population health and creating opportunities for people and communities to thrive.

“Alongside my professional work, I am Chair of the BMC Hillwalking Committee, reflecting my personal commitment to walking, the outdoors and encouraging more people to enjoy these environments. I look forward to bringing both my public health experience and my involvement in the outdoor sector to support the National Park and help more people benefit from everything it has to offer.”