The AONB is a resource to be enjoyed by all sectors of our diverse society. Walking, cycling, horse riding, as well as people enjoying the tranquillity of the AONB are all popular activities undertaken informally and as part of organised events. However greater use of the AONB also brings added pressure to the landscape, which needs to be managed appropriately.
Events Code of Conduct
In recent years an increasing number of large-scale events have been taking place in the AONB. These events are having an impact on the environment and on other people’s enjoyment of the area.The AONB Partnership has produced the following guidelines with the aim of ensuring that events within the AONB are appropriate, well planned, well located and well organised.
Current Project Work Last Update 05/10. For more details on any of the projects please email mendiphills@somerset.gov.uk
Management of public access on Black Down as part of wider Black Down management project to ensure the historic landscape and wildlife is protected and enhanced the Black Down Advisory Group is working towards reducing the erosion and protecting and conserving the special features of the site. Members include the landowner, Burrington Conservators, Natural England, English Heritage and local authority Rights of Way teams.
AONB Volunteers have completed an erosion survey of paths on Black Down and an audit of the alignment and waymarking of bridleways.
Working with the Black Down Advisory group the AONB Unit has installed vehicle barriers at the main entry points to the site. This will tackle the problem of illegal off road driving which is the largest cause of damage affecting the site. With this work completed work can begin to better manage access for the legitimate users of the site.
The AONB Unit is now developing a bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund for a project to improve access on Black Down and Burrington Ham while protecting the natural and cultural features of the sites. This project will also encourage better understanding of the sites wildlife and history.
Promote the Avon and Somerset Police Pathwatch scheme This scheme was launched in winter 2009 to target areas known for illegal use by off road vehicles including Black Down. Information on the scheme is available from the Avon and Somerset Police web site.
You can help by reporting illegal use of ROW by off road vehicles via the pathwatch website or by telephoning 0845 456 7000 and providing details of the vehicle and location.
1SW Off Road Cycling project. The Mendip Hills AONB are part of this regional initiative to secure funding to map all off road trails within protected landscapes focusing on routes suitable for those with little or no experience of off road cycling. The project is an opportunity to raise the profile of routes such as the Strawberry Line and to manage sustainable off road cycling.
8 Wild Walks has been published this year. The spiral bound book of 8 walks provides an introduction to the variety of landscapes rich biodiversity of the area. The book is available from a number of local outlets and more information can be found on our Publications page.
The Mendip Hills AONB Visitor Guide has been updated and and is now available by contacting us on 01761 462338 or emailing Mendip Hills
