The Chilterns Conservation Board (CCB) has welcomed the government's commitment to enhance safeguarding of protected landscapes.
This follows an announcement outlining several steps, including a response to Julian Glover’s Landscapes Review, 34 new landscape recovery projects, and £2.5m aimed at enabling more disadvantaged children to enjoy outdoor benefits.
An additional £15 million funding uplift collectively for Protected Landscapes was also announced, along with the government’s recommitment to designate a new National Park, another decision welcomed by the CCB.
Dr Elaine King, chief executive for the CCB, said: "Today’s announcement is welcome.
"A £15m cash injection absolutely takes us in the right direction, but it must represent a meaningful levelling up for National Landscapes in line with the recommendations outlined in the Landscapes Review."
"England’s 10 National Parks receive seven times the funding of National Landscapes, yet National Landscapes cover double the land area, and welcome double the number of visitors a year."
Colin Courtney, chairman for the CCB, said: “This £15m uplift for Protected Landscapes is most welcome, but it’s not clear whether this announcement marks a real commitment to providing the security of long-term funding.
"We need to be able to plan ahead so we can fully deliver our statutory purposes to conserve and enhance our natural and historic environment, and enable more people to experience and benefit from this wonderful landscape."
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