A place in England, Wales or Northern Ireland that has received a conservation designation due to its landscape and scenic value is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The relevant public authority recognises areas based on their importance to the nation. The three are: Natural England, Natural Resources Wales and Northern Ireland Environment Agency. The UK has 46 AONBs, of which 34 are located in England.
The UK National Parks are similar in that they offer a high level of protection against development. However, the above public authorities do not possess their own planning power. Local authorities are permitted to act to preserve and enhance AONBs within their areas.
The “natural beauty criteria” must be met before the public authority can decide whether or not an area is an AONB. It may include a number of different factors.
- Landscapes of good quality, whether man-made or naturally created.
- The scenery is stunning, with striking landforms along the coast.
- Wildness relative to the housing area, for example, distances from roads or a lack of road access.
- Natural sounds such as bird song or flowing streams are predominant in a relative tranquillity.
- Features of the natural heritage, including geology and species.
- This can be the environment surrounding the building, or the buildings themselves that are unique. It can be historic parkland, archaeological remains or even a combination of both. For Cotswolds Private Tours to appreciate this AONB, visit co.uk/cotswolds-private-tours/
An AONB can span several planning authorities and ensure that a consistency of approach and continuity in advice is maintained. AONB Boards often meet and discuss issues relating to planning applications. These applications are assessed against AONB-specific policies in a local plan.
