ARC Paper 3 Annex 1 DRAFT_Annual report and accounts 2025-26

This document contains the Cairngorms National Park Authority's Annual Report and Accounts for 2025/26, detailing significant progress across its goals for nature, people, and place. Key achievements include the approval of a pioneering new fire byelaw and substantial advancements in the £42 million Cairngorms 2030 programme, which saw 475 hectares of native woodland planted, over 1,800 hectares of peatland restored, and extensive community engagement, all contributing to the park's ambition to become the UK's first net zero national park. Nature conservation efforts, bolstered by a £1.2 million grant, made strides in protecting threatened species and fostering beaver populations, while local development and visitor infrastructure planning also progressed. Financially, the Park Authority's grant-in-aid increased to £17.7 million, with overall income up 70% since 2021/22, demonstrating effective management of its budget and risks, and maintaining a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and staff well-being. The Authority continues to drive strategic alignment with partners to deliver its objectives and enhance the Cairngorms National Park for future generations.