DEFRA's consultation on governance of English national parks has limited its content to calls for more local responsiveness and lower spending, but the review has revived fears the result will be weakened protection and more greenfield development in what are supposed to be the country's most protected landscapes.
Campaign for National Parks deputy chief executive Ruth Chambers said she feared the authorities could face a 30% cut in spending.
"It's all connected to the funding," she said.
"If we have got less well-resourced bodies implementing these purposes on the ground, they are ripe for exploitation."
Environment minister Richard Benyon pointed out that national parks are not just beautiful and historic areas of countryside, but areas where people live and work.
"They are an asset to our country, helping to boost the economy and attract new visitors, businesses and investment," he said.
Views on the consultation are required by 1 February.
