Yorkshire Wolds AONB plan submitted to government

A proposal to make the Yorkshire Wolds an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) has been submitted to the government.

If approved, it would mean the area would be given some legal protections regarding development and conservation.

Natural England has submitted the plan to Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Secretary Dame Angela Eagle.

If the idea goes ahead, the AONB would cover about 180 sq miles (465 sq km).

The proposal is supported by East Riding of Yorkshire Council as well as the Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority.

The inland area includes the Wolds north and west slopes, the foothills south of Malton and the High Wolds and their valleys.

The coastal area runs around Flamborough Head, from Reighton and Sewerby Rocks.

Natural England carried out a survey earlier this year which found that 85% of people questioned supported AONB status for the coastal area, while 78% of people supported it for the inland area.

East Riding council leader Anne Handley said: "This is a key milestone, and we're delighted that Natural England is submitting it to the secretary of state.

"The Yorkshire Wolds are a stunning area of natural landscapes that fully deserve national recognition."

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