Exmoor National Park Authority - Get Involved

Main Activity:  
The Exmoor Local Access Forum is an independent statutory advisory body set up by Exmoor National Park Authority in 2002 under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000.   

The purpose of the Forum is to provide advice to Exmoor National Park Authority and other specified bodies about how to improve public access to land for open-air recreation and enjoyment.  In providing advice, the Forum must have regard to the needs of land management and conservation of the natural beauty of the landscape.    The Forum meets twice a year and its membership includes two representatives of the Authority. 

Location:
Each year, there are two Forum meetings and associated site visits are held at different locations around the National Park. Meetings are usually held in village halls and site visits tend to be held on the morning prior to the meeting. Site visits are specifically related to an item on the meeting agenda.   

Time Commitment:
Two meetings a year and associated site visits. Meeting papers and consultation documents are circulated prior to meetings for comment and extra time can be involved when contributing to working groups, which are formed to discuss specific strategic aims of the Forum.  

Duration:
Members serve a term of 3 years 

Skills/Ability needed:  
We are looking for members who are passionate about access and rights of way, which may include representatives from local interest groups such as walkers, horse riders, cyclists and off-road motorists. Also, owners or occupiers of land which has a public right of access or those who are interested tourism, nature heritage conservation, coastal issues, health, public transport or community safety.  
 
Other skills:
 - Good communication skills – a willingness to listen carefully to others point of view 

 - A good understanding of their relevant interest area 

 - An ability to understand technical documents and information 

 - Commitment to work within the Guidance on Local Access Forums in England 

 - Ability to devote necessary time to meetings and project work 

 - Willingness to attend training sessions and network with a wide range of people       outside meetings 

 - IT literate, including the ability to respond to emails 

 - Physically fit and able to attend site visits 

What you need to bring:
A passion for access and public rights of way, whether you have a background in recreational pursuits or an owner or occupier of land with access rights. It is important to have an open mind and be able to listen to and collaborate on strategic issues with members who may have a different opinion than your own.  

What’s in it for you:
An opportunity to meet with other members who are interested in access and discuss how to improve access on Exmoor and feedback this advice in a clear and useful way. A great chance to build working relationships with the Access & Recreation team at Exmoor National Park Authority and develop a deeper understanding of the work involved in access and rights of way work.  

Further info and application form: Sue Applegate on access@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk