By KLTV Newsdesk –

From national foundations to West Yorkshire’s green belt, the campaign’s century-long legacy continues to shape rural protection

This December marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of what is now widely regarded as one of England’s most important environmental organisations: the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE).

Initially founded in London, the organisation has played a significant role in the creation and preservation of England’s national parks.

Over the past century, it has expanded into a network of regional and county branches, including CPRE West Yorkshire.

CPRE West Yorkshire – A Local Legacy

According to gov.uk: “The West Yorkshire branch of the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) achieved its formal charity registration on October 21, 1971.

“This followed the establishment of the national parent body, which was founded as the Council for the Preservation of Rural England on December 7, 1926”

That places the West Yorkshire branch at 55 years of formal charitable status, compared with the national organisation’s 100-year history.

As CPRE reaches this major milestone, its mission remains particularly relevant in regions such as West Yorkshire.

Protecting a Changing Landscape

In West Yorkshire, where expanding towns sit alongside moorland, farmland and historic villages, CPRE’s work continues to highlight the balance between development and conservation.

The organisation emphasises that protecting the countryside is not about opposing progress, but about shaping development in a way that allows both communities and nature to thrive.

A key part of this work includes safeguarding the county’s Green Belt, supporting cleaner air, greener spaces and more sustainable communities.

A Century-Long Mission

As CPRE celebrates 100 years since its founding, its influence continues to be felt across England’s rural and urban fringe landscapes.

For West Yorkshire, that legacy remains a reminder that the countryside is not only a landscape to admire, but a shared resource worth preserving for generations to come.