Exmoor was designated as a National Park in 1954. Since then the co-ordination of work to achieve National Park purposes in the area has been undertaken by local government – first by the county councils and, since 1997, by a free-standing authority.

 

The authority decides what measures can be taken to achieve these purposes, which are:

To conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the National Parks

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To promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the Parks by the public.