Successor named as Northumberland National Park chief retires after 20 years
New leader to take over ‘England’s last great wilderness.’ Tony Henderson reports
The new chief executive of Northumberland National Park has been chosen to replace Tony Gates, who is retiring after 20 years in the post.
David Renwick will take over in what is the 70th anniversary of the park, which he describes as England’s “last great wilderness.”
Mr Renwick has over 20 years of senior experience across the environment, heritage and landscape sectors and is currently Natural England’s regional director for the North of England.
In that role, he has led major programmes focused on nature recovery, community engagement and landscape-scale partnerships.
Prior to Natural England, Mr Renwick served as director for England North at the National Lottery Heritage Fund, helping to secure significant investment in cultural and environmental projects across the region.
Earlier in his career, he worked with the North York Moors National Park Authority.
He said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be taking up the reins as the new chief executive of Northumberland National Park Authority.
“Northumberland is arguably the most tranquil national park in England – its last great wilderness. This is a landscape shaped not only by nature, but by the people, communities and traditions that make it such an extraordinary place to live, work and visit.
“I can’t wait to get started and I’m excited to listen, to learn and to work alongside the many individuals and organisations who care so deeply for the national park. It’s an honour to have the opportunity to help continue the excellent work that Tony Gates and the team have delivered so far.
“I’m passionate about making sure everyone can benefit from this special North East landscape, now and forever, and to celebrate it as we move into 2026, Northumberland National Park’s 70th birthday.”
Denis Mullan, chairman of Northumberland National Park Authority, said: “David, who has strong local connections, will bring his considerable skills and experience to benefit Northumberland National Park, its communities and visitors, and his strong and confident leadership will help ensure NNPA remains a key player in our region.
“I would like to thank Tony Gates for his 20 years of service to the park, and we wish him well for the future as he begins a new chapter in his life.”
Mr Renwick will formally take up the role on May 4.