Definition of 'Thriving and Sustainable Communities' in the context of the Peak District National Park Management Plan

This definition has been developed specifically in relation to resident communities in the Peak District National Park.

Thriving communities

A thriving community is one where people of all generations can live healthy and fulfilled lives and can grow, flourish and prosper, now and in the future. A thriving community is one in which:

• the diverse population is resilient, resourceful and adaptable to change, with a sense of pride in itself

• its people and institutions are welcoming and demonstrate mutual care and respect, and where informed decision-making strives for equality, fairness and inclusivity

• people are connected to others to share, collaborate and learn

• the environment is safe and healthy

• people, institutions and businesses respond positively to climate change (the net zero commitment) and the biodiversity crisis in a way that does not harm, and actively promotes the restoration of, functioning ecosystems and natural processes

• its cultural heritage is respected, cared for and celebrated

• there are sufficient resources and infrastructure, including appropriate new development

• there are high quality, long-term employment opportunities so that local people do not have to move away.

Sustainable communities

Sustainable development can help communities to thrive by meeting today's needs in a way that harmonises economic growth, social inclusion and environmental protection, ensuring that the needs of future generations are not compromised.

A sustainable community is therefore likely to include (all or most of):

Social

• the provision of a sufficient supply of safe, energy efficient homes in a mixture of tenures so that:

  • a diverse population can be sustained

  • those with local roots can remain or return

  • family groups across the generations can stay together for mutual support

• opportunities to develop and participate in community activities

• access to nature and outdoor green space for sport, play and recreation

• essential services, including shops, entertainment and medical facilities

• the ability to sustain those things that are important to it (e.g. schools, places of worship, community-run buildings, pubs, and cultural activities)

• access to the highest quality life-long education

• consistent high-quality super-fast broadband and communications

• convenient, attractive, affordable public transport alongside safe opportunities for active travel.

Environment

• people working together to conserve and enhance their area

• land and natural resource management that safeguards communities, biodiversity and ecosystems

• a radical shift in patterns of consumption towards reuse, repair & recycling and shorter supply chains that do not degrade any natural resources

• unpolluted air, water and soil

• development that achieves biodiversity net-gain

• an environment where flood and other major risks are regularly risk-assessed and proactively mitigated

• renewable energy that is available to all

• systems to ensure that waste does not exist.

Economy

• sustainable, innovative workplaces

• access to good-quality apprenticeships and training

• the right conditions and infrastructure for businesses to flourish and innovate so that

  • the best workers are attracted

  • local people can stay and compete in the national and global market for jobs

  • there is a shift away from commuting towards local employment and self-employment

• sustainable products and services.