In a time when we there is increased demand for National Landscapes and National Parks to deliver benefits for nature and people, it is disappointing that Natural England has announced its decision to cancel the review of the Chilterns National Landscape boundary and abandon the plans for a new National Landscape for the Cheshire Sandstone Ridge.

While we appreciate this decision was made following Defra cutting funding for Natural England’s landscape designations programme, the news is a heavy blow for the people and organisations that have invested hundreds of hours of work to develop both of these programmes; the communities that would have benefitted from them and of course, the landscape itself.

John Watkins, Chief Executive of the National Landscapes Association, said: “We are very disappointed with the decision to cancel both the boundary review of Chilterns National Landscape, and the consideration of Cheshire Sandstone Ridge for potential designation as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (National Landscape).

“These cancellations deny both landscapes the recognition they deserve. Both reviews were well supported by local communities, and people will rightly feel let down by this decision. At a time when green spaces are under increased threat, it’s ever more important that people from all walks of life are able to enjoy these iconic places with the security of knowing they have been designated by the nation for us all to share.”

National Landscapes and National Parks deliver essential benefits for nature, people and the economy. Long-term management of their beautiful scenery and unique geological, ecological and cultural features supports tourism and farming, enhances people’s physical and mental health and provides a stable foundation for nature recovery.

Designating new areas to extend the Chilterns National Landscape would have secured more of these unique natural and cultural areas, contributing directly to key government commitments including to protect 30% of land for nature by 2030, and to ensure more people, particularly from disadvantaged urban backgrounds, can experience nature. 

Dr Elaine King, Chief Executive of the Chilterns National Landscape, said: “This is a devastating decision. We were on the cusp of supporting Natural England with its public consultation on an extended boundary, with all landscape assessments completed and strong support across our local authorities, partner organisations and local residents. The time, effort, and hope invested by so many people has simply been swept away. 

The Chilterns is in a strong position to connect its growing local communities with the joys of this special landscape – this is not just a missed opportunity, it’s a step backwards.” 

The Chilterns National Landscape team has also acknowledged, and valued hugely, the dedication and professionalism of the local Natural England teams involved.  

“We will be working closely with Natural England’s local teams to ensure the evidence collected during the project is used to better protect and inform decisions about the Chilterns,” said Dr King. “We are also determined to continue the rich conversations this project started – with partners, experts, and communities – to explore how we can continue to enhance and care for this special landscape.”

“This decision is deeply disappointing, but we will not give up. We will hold Natural England and Defra to their commitments and urge Ministers to identify funding to complete this work,” Dr King concluded. 

While the boundary review at The Chilterns National Landscape and the abandonment of a new National Landscape for the Cheshire Sandstone Ridge have been scrapped, John Watkins said he welcomes the commitment to progressing the Surrey Hills National Landscape boundary extension and the consideration of the Yorkshire Wolds for AONB designation.