The Value of an AONB
The Mendip Hills are naturally beautiful and nationally protected for us all to enjoy. But the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is under growing pressure from modern life. In the coming months we can all play a part in the future of this precious area.
Weston-super-Mare is lucky enough to sit on the edge of the Mendip Hills AONB. The hills are the backdrop to the seaside town. Locals and holiday-makers know and love the footpaths, woodlands and combes even if they do not know or understand the official designation of AONB. Did you know AONBs offer the same level of protection from damaging developments in planning law as National Parks?
The AONB Management Plan plan points the direction for work to conserve and enhance the area. The plan sets out a vision of where the Partnership wants the AONB to be in 20 years time, objectives that specify what the Partnership wants to achieve and actions stating how they will get things done.
The Partnership is a group of organisations dedicated to the conservation and care of the Mendip Hills. It includes the five local authorities that cover the AONB and statutory bodies such as Natural England, together with parish councils and other organisations and groups that have an interest in the area.
The Partnership Committee meets three times a year. A key item at these meetings is the Partnerships Annual Delivery Plan. An Annual Forum is also held for the wider community. Both are important to encourage debate and to spread best practice in finding solutions to management issues.
The Partnership has a number of working groups to advise and develop its work. Currently these are the Planning Group, Heritage Group and Black Down Advisory Group
The Partnership funds an AONB staff unit to carry out core AONB activities and develop project work to progress the Management Plan.
The Value of an AONB