Strengthened protection for Essex and Suffolk countryside

Natural England is proposing to extend the Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB  for the first time in almost 50 years.  The move would see the AONB increase by nearly 10%, stretching down to include the Stour Estuary, Samford Valley and Freston Brook Valley areas. Parts of Essex will also be recognised for their natural beauty for the first time. A notice period will now run until 22 March 2019 where the public can respond to the proposals.

Interim Chief Executive of Natural England Marian Spain said:

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty represent some of the country’s most valued landscapes, designated to conserve and enhance natural beauty. The extension of Suffolk Coast and Heaths AONB would ensure magnificent estuary, valley and woodland views in this part of Suffolk and Essex are given added protection. The support and input from the public and stakeholders has been vital in developing these plans, and we look forward to working closely together as we hopefully see them become a reality.

The UK’s 46 AONBs represent some of country’s finest countryside, spanning from Cornwall to the North Pennines, offering a wealth of opportunities for both people and wildlife to benefit from the countryside.  This comes as Julian Glover leads the government’s ongoing review into protected landscapes and how they meet the nation’s needs in the 21st century. Click here to read more