My original thoughts on this has been widely supported by all Peninsula Parish Councils, Ward councillors Cllr. Filmer, Cllr. Pendergast , Medway Cllr Simon Curry and our MP Kelly Tolhurst (Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Transport).
RSPB, Kent Wildlife Trust and officers at Medway Council have also been very helpful and supportive. Of course, progress has taken a bit of backward step because of the Coronavirus emergency.
It has become evident after much discussion that an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty [AONB] would be a better and more appropriate designation.
So what is the difference between an AONB and a National Park ?
AONBs and National Parks are actually of equal importance for landscape and scenic beauty, the difference is that AONBs exist for the purpose of conserving and enhancing their natural beauty. National Parks, in addition to this, have a second purpose – To promote understanding and enjoyment of the area’s special qualities by the public. Because of this extra (and substantial) layer of responsibility they have their own independent National Park authorities with full planning powers running them.
AONB designation usually covers a wide area and many types and uses of land. Not all parts of an AONB are necessarily open to the public. In fact, most are not, as they are privately owned just like anywhere else. Towns and villages are sometimes included, and often small areas which are not at all beautiful get included too, with a secondary aim of meeting the need for quiet enjoyment of the countryside and having regard for the interests of those who live and work there.
We are continuing with the work behind the scenes and hope to bring you news as it develops. In the meantime please indicate your support be completing the survey if you haven’t done so already. [formidable id=1]