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

In carrying out these purposes the Authority has a duty to seek to foster the economic and social well-being of local communities within the national parks

All planning applications within the National Park area are determined by the National Park Authority and applications are dealt with at our offices in Dulverton.  Planning policies are there to ensure both rural prosperity and the protection and enhancement of the special character of Exmoor.