Landscape Review on AONBs and National parks
Nearly 70 years after the country’s National Parks were first established, opening up the countryside and allowing more people to connect with nature, an independent panel is looking at how these iconic landscapes meet our needs in the 21st century – including whether there is scope for the current network of 34 AONBs and 10 National Parks to expand.
The review, led by writer Julian Glover, is also exploring how access to these beloved landscapes can be improved, how those who live and work in them can be better supported, and their role in growing the rural economy.
Weakening or undermining their existing protections or geographic scope is not part of the review, which will instead focus on how designated areas can boost wildlife, support the recovery of natural habitats and connect more people with nature.
Undertaking this review is one of the key commitments of the government’s 25 Year Environment Plan, which outlines their vision for improving the environment over a generation by connecting people with nature and helping wildlife to thrive.
As part of the review DEFRA has launched a “Call for Evidence” to give people a chance to contribute. The “Call for Evidence” closes on the 18th December and the review itself will report in early 2019. For more information see https://consult.defra.gov.uk/land-use/landscapes-review-call-for-evidence/
