The Park Authority

The Cairngorms National Park Authority was set up to ensure that the unique aspects of the Cairngorms - both the natural environment and local communities - are cared for, sustained and enhanced for current and future generations to enjoy.

The Cairngorms National Park Authority provides leadership to all those involved in the Cairngorms and works in partnership with a range of communities, businesses, land managers, non-governmental organisations and public sector partners to deliver practical solutions on the ground.  We have two statutory duties: planning and outdoor access.

• Your Future Here careers event James Lee

  

  
• The peatland team at work Ed Smith

  

  
• Talking to a ranger Ed Smith

  

  

Planning 

As a planning authority, we are committed to ensuring that the National Park’s communities remain healthy and sustainable. Working alongside the five local authorities which operate in the National Park, our planning service helps get development in the right places by promoting investment, protecting and enhancing the natural and cultural heritage and by creating places that we can all value and enjoy. 

Outdoor access

As an access authority with the responsibility of upholding access rights as set out in the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003, our goal is to encourage responsible sharing of outdoor space between different users while reducing the impact on our protected species and habitats. 

Partnership Plan

Every five years the Park Authority produces a National Park Partnership Plan – approved by Scottish Ministers – which sets the framework for all public bodies that work within the Cairngorms. This includes the five local authorities that overlap the National Park boundary, as well as organisations from NatureScot to Transport Scotland, Highlands and Islands Enterprise to Skills Development Scotland. The plan is also supported and delivered by a range of private and voluntary organisations.