Richard Benyon Minister for the Natural Environment and Fisheries on Monday 4th April confirmed government backing for England's 34 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), which includes the High Weald AONB.
Speaking from Berry Head National Nature Reserve in the South Devon AONB, the Minister announced that the responsibility for funding and strategic oversight of the English AONBs has transferred to the Department for Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). This represents a new era for Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, confirming them as highly valued members of the UK's protected landscape family.
By the change of sponsorship, Her Majesty's coalition government is acknowledging that AONBs are strategic national assets and that local AONB partnerships such as the High Weald AONB Joint Advisory Committee are key players in managing positive landscape change.
Councillor Mrs Sylvia Tidy, Chairman of the High Weald AONB Committee said "I'm delighted by the Minister's announcement, which recognizes the fundamental role AONB partnerships play in meeting local and national environmental objectives ranging from food production, sustainable energy generation, nature conservation, education, and outdoor recreation."