Yorkshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty: Consultation Set to Begin

Natural England is preparing to launch an exciting and potentially transformative project—the proposal to designate the Yorkshire Wolds as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

With the consultation period set to begin on 8th October 2024 and extend through to 13th January 2025, this initiative could significantly enhance the protection and recognition of one of the region’s most beautiful landscapes. Public and statutory consultations are key to this process, allowing local residents, organisations, and stakeholders to contribute their views on the proposal.

What is an AONB?

An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a designated landscape in the UK, recognised for its exceptional scenic beauty. While the term AONB was recently rebranded to "National Landscapes," the legal process still requires Natural England to designate it as an AONB. Should the designation be granted, it will officially carry the branding of a National Landscape, reflecting its significance on a national scale.

The Yorkshire Wolds, known for its rolling chalk hills, rich history, and diverse wildlife, is seen by many as an ideal candidate for such a designation. The proposed AONB status would afford the region enhanced protection against inappropriate development, preserve its natural beauty, and promote sustainable land use practices.

Consultation details and how to participate

Natural England's consultation will run for 14 weeks, during which there will be multiple opportunities for the public to engage and provide feedback. This period offers an important chance for those who live, work, or simply enjoy the Yorkshire Wolds to share their thoughts.

Key elements of the consultation include:

• Duration: 8th October 2024 – 13th January 2025
• Method: Both online and in-person events, as well as written submissions
• Access: A full schedule of events is available on the project’s website, with opportunities to attend webinars and drop-in sessions.

You can view the full event schedule on the 'Have your say' section of the project website here. For those interested in attending an online webinar, registration is available via Eventbrite, and details can be found in the attached letter from Natural England.

Events and public engagement

In order to make the consultation as accessible as possible, Natural England has organised a number of face-to-face events across the region, alongside online webinars for those unable to attend in person. These events are designed to provide more detailed information about the proposed AONB and allow participants to ask questions directly to the project team.

Drop-in sessions will be held at various locations across the Yorkshire Wolds, providing residents with the chance to engage with the consultation in a more informal setting. Additionally, those who prefer an online format can sign up for webinars, where they will be able to hear directly from Natural England officials and ask questions.

Key information sources

Participants in the consultation can find a variety of resources to help them understand the scope of the project. The project website is the main hub for all materials related to the proposal. There, you can access:

• Full details on the proposal and its implications
• The schedule of events and webinars
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to provide background on the AONB designation process

All materials related to the consultation will refer to the area as an AONB, given that Natural England can only officially designate under this title, despite the rebranding to National Landscapes.

What happens after the consultation?

If the consultation process results in the designation of the Yorkshire Wolds as an AONB, the area will benefit from legal protection aimed at preserving its natural beauty and ensuring sustainable development. This would be a monumental step for the region, putting it on par with other well-known AONBs and National Parks in the UK. The designation could also potentially boost tourism, attract conservation funding, and foster greater community engagement in the stewardship of the local environment.

Protecting personal data

For those engaging in the consultation process, it is important to note that Natural England's Personal Information Charter sets out clear guidelines on how personal data will be handled. This ensures that any information shared during the consultation will be treated with care and confidentiality.

If you no longer wish to receive updates about the Yorkshire Wolds AONB project, there is an option to unsubscribe via the link included in your correspondence. You can also contact Natural England directly using the contact information provided at the bottom of the consultation documents.

This consultation represents a unique opportunity for residents and stakeholders to shape the future of the Yorkshire Wolds, ensuring that its stunning landscapes are preserved for generations to come. If you have an interest in the future of this remarkable area, now is the time to get involved and make your voice heard.