The British government is planning legislation next year to create a national park in the Mourne Mountains area of Co Down.
The North's Environment Minister, Lord Rooker, confirmed today that legislation would be put before the House of Commons next autumn.
The Mournes will be the pilot area, but there is potential for the creation of further national parks covering the Glens of Antrim, Lakes of Fermanagh, The Sperrin Mountains and Strangford Lough in Co Down.
Creating national parks was not just about conservation, said the minister. "It is not about ossifying the landscape. It is about development being managed. It is about supporting communities in an integrated way so that any designated area has life and vibrancy."
Lord Rooker said it was clear there was a public desire for the establishment of national parks in the North. He added national parks would be run by a national parks authority.
