For the past year the local Conservatives and I have been working to secure the extension of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) to cover parts of our beautiful North Hertfordshire countryside.
With swathes of historic woodland, rolling pastures and precious chalk streams that we call home, much of this area falls within the Chilterns geographic area, but lie outside of the existing AONB. Inclusion within the Chilterns AONB would recognise this area as one of England’s key natural landscapes. These heartlands of Hertfordshire deserve to be preserved for future generations.
Land within an AONB is not just recognised with this status, it is protected from inappropriate development. Being awarded AONB status would unlock new opportunities to enhance our natural environment. From our unique chalk streams to our broadleaf woodlands, the constituency of Hitchin & Harpenden is blessed with stunning, uninterrupted vistas and flourishing flora and fauna. This status would also help our local economy. Being in an AONB would create new benefits for our local farmers, landowners, and communities, and boost local businesses.
Sign this petition to join the campaign to extend the Chilterns AONB.
