Natural England has submitted a proposal to the
Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
to designate a brand-new Area of Outstanding
Natural Beauty (AONB) in the Yorkshire Wolds, to be known as the
Yorkshire Wolds National Landscape.
The proposal, submitted on 8 September 2026, would see
approximately 463km² of the Yorkshire Wolds recognised for its
outstanding natural beauty. If confirmed, this would be the first
new AONB to be designated anywhere in England in over
30 years.
Paul Duncan, Deputy Director for Natural England in
Yorkshire, said:
Submitting this proposal marks a hugely significant milestone,
not just for the Yorkshire Wolds, but for landscape conservation
across England. This has been years in the making, and reflects
the passion and dedication of local communities, landowners and
stakeholders who have helped shape these plans.
The Yorkshire Wolds is a landscape of real distinction, and we
believe it deserves the recognition, protection and investment
that National Landscape status can bring.
The proposal follows years of technical assessment and public
consultation, including a formal Notice Period allowing anyone
to submit representations. Support across consultations
has been strong, ranging from 80 to 95 per cent, alongside some
objections, all of which have been carefully considered.
The Secretary of State will now review the evidence and decide
whether to confirm, amend or refuse the Order. There is no set
timescale for this decision, and the Yorkshire Wolds gains no new
status unless and until it is confirmed.
Natural England carries out this work under the Countryside and
Rights of Way Act 2000, to conserve and enhance England's finest
landscapes for future generations. Designation would also support
nature recovery, climate resilience, public health and wellbeing,
and local tourism, and would deliver the area's first coordinated
management plan, helping focus conservation efforts and unlock
further funding.
Natural England would like to thank everyone who has contributed
to this project so far and looks forward to the next stage of the
process.
Notes
-
The proposal was submitted alongside a separate
proposal to extend the Surrey Hills AONB, as both projects
form part of Natural England's landscape designation
programme.
-
AONBs (National Landscapes) are designated solely
for the purpose of conserving and enhancing the natural
beauty of a landscape.
-
Further information on the Yorkshire Wolds project is
available at Yorkshire Wolds Designation
Project
