3 JUNE 1949, Page 15

Defeated Plans

It is pointed out by the most energetic of all branches of the C.P.R.E., the Sheffield and Peak District Branch, that at the date of the passing of the National Parks Bill—a rather anaemic measure—the selected grounds have been more ruthlessly treated than at any time in their history. Dartmoor, the North York moors, the Roman Wall, North Wales and the Peak are all quoted. This is true ; and we have as yet small proof that the National Parks will be well administered. This means that both the Council for the Preservation of Rural England itself and the local branches need more, not less, support than of old. Many people have been lulled into false security by the planning of green belts, so called. The desecration of the Hope Valley is an outstanding example of the uselessness of a mere plan.