GUEST CONTRIBUTOR
T
he Cotswolds look like the Cotswolds because of farming. It is a core part of the area’s economy and has shaped its appearance over centuries, creating the distinctive and much-loved landscape that was protected for the nation in 1966 as a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) – now the Cotswolds National Landscape. Farming has also created several of the highly valued special qualities of the Cotswolds AONB, including the large, open High Wolds, with its big skies, long-distance views, distinctive drystone walls and flower-rich grasslands. By definition, AONBs are landscapes whose distinctive character and natural
beauty are so outstanding that it is in the nation’s interest to safeguard them. The primary purpose of AONB designation is to “conserve and enhance natural beauty”, and the ongoing viability of farming is vital for the future of the Cotswolds landscape, and for delivering the purpose of designation. Farming and landscape have evolved over time and continue to do so. That evolution is accelerating due to climate change, global economic pressures and subsidy reform, particularly the withdrawal of the Basic Payment Scheme and emerging opportunities such as carbon sequestration and biodiversity net gain. Farm businesses look to diversification to remain viable, but often feel
constrained by the AONB designation. It is true that the hurdle is set higher for gaining planning permission or navigating environmental impact assessment (EIA) screening within an AONB. However, it’s far from impossible - it’s about putting the right thing in the right place, whether it’s a new building, farm shop, woodland or campsite, and ensuring it’s designed and located in a way that is compatible with the AONB designation and sufficiently avoids or minimises adverse impacts.
Policies, guidance and considerations One secret to success is being aware of the relevant policies, information and guidance, and seeking honest, good
Balancing farming and
landscape Mark Connelly, Land Management Lead at the Cotswolds National Landscape, explains how farm diversifications can succeed within an AONB designation
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cla.org.uk
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