Decision details

To formally adopt, on behalf of Wiltshire Council, the Final Draft of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Management Plan 2014-19 (see Appendix 1).

Following consultation with officers I give notice that I intend to make the decision set out in the attached report.  If you would like to make any representations to me on this issue please do so by 22 May 2014. 

To ensure that the reviewed AONB Management Plan for the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is adopted by the Council to enable its submission to the Secretary of State.

Adoption of the reviewed AONB Management Plan, leading to submission to the Secretary of State, will fulfil the Council’s statutory obligations.

The Draft Management Plan has been through an extensive consultation process with all members of the AONB Partnership, which includes:

·         Nine relevant local authorities

·         Natural England

·         English Heritage

·         Environment Agency

·         Forestry Commission

·         South West Tourism

·         Wiltshire and Dorset Associations of Town and Parish Councils

·         National Farmers Union (NFU)

·         Country Land and Business Association (CLA)

·         Campaign for the Protection of Rural England (CPRE)

The results of extensive public consultation from the previous Management Plan have also been considered in the construction of the reviewed plan.