Views sought on extending Surrey conservation area

Natural England has launched a statutory and public consultation for proposed extensions to the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Local authorities and other interested groups and individuals will be able to comment on the proposed extensions for the next 14 weeks.

The proposal to extend the Surrey Hills AONB is part of a programme of landscape designation and is one of four new designation projects to aimed at delivering on the Government’s commitment to safeguard more of England’s landscapes for future generations.

Allison Potts, Natural England area manager, said: "This launch of the statutory and public consultation marks an exciting step forward in Natural England’s ambitious landscape designation programme.

"The local community have already played a fantastic part responding to our earlier call for evidence to support extensions to the AONB and we are now looking forward to hearing what people think of the formal proposals.

"We’re inviting anyone interested in this fantastic landscape to take the time to examine the proposals and have their say on the consultation hub."

It is expected that expanding the area could conserve and enhance the natural and cultural heritage and the views and beauty of the area, as well as improve access to nature and boost people's health and wellbeing. It is also anticipated that it could boost economic growth and local tourism.