Decision details

To consider the request of the Mendip Hills AONB Partnership to adopt the Mendip Hills AONB Management Plan and consider the request of the Cotswold Conservation Board to endorse their AONB Management Plan.

The Cabinet Member agrees that B&NES:

i)  Adopt the Mendip Hills AONB Management Plan 2019 – 2024 as the basis for safeguarding and managing the unique beauty and distinctive character of the AONB.

ii)  Do not endorse the Cotswold AONB Management Plan 2018-2023 at this time given that the Management Plan’s stated ambition to promote the case to be designated as England’s next National Park has not been properly assessed and is not adequately justified.

The adoption of a Management Plan for the Mendips Hills AONB is a statutory requirement to meet the Council’s duty under the CRoW Act. 

Whilst not endorsing the Cotswolds AONB Management Plan, the Council will still fulfil its duties under the provisions of Section 85 of the CRoW Act for local authorities to have regard to the conservation and enhancement of the AONB when carrying out their operations and statutory duties within the AONB. The Council will continue to acknowledge the Plan as a material consideration when determining planning applications and drafting planning policy.

Failure to approve and have a Management Plan in place for the Mendip Hills AONB will leave the Council in breach of its statutory duty under the CRoW Act.