 From 1954 on , local government was the responsibility of the district and county councils , which remain responsible for the social and economic well @-@ being of the local community . Since 1997 the Exmoor National Park Authority , which is known as a ' single purpose ' authority , has taken over some functions to meet its aims to " conserve and enhance the natural beauty , wildlife and cultural heritage of the National Parks " and " promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the parks by the public " , including responsibility for the conservation of the historic environment . 
