Yorkshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Plans Progress

Natural England has announced a significant step forward in the proposal to designate the Yorkshire Wolds as a new Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), following a comprehensive review of public and statutory evidence

The project, which would see the landscape rebranded as a National Landscape upon formal designation, has received a clear weight of evidence supporting its outstanding natural beauty.

An analysis of the public consultation, published this week, revealed a high level of enthusiasm for the plan, particularly regarding the region’s dramatic shoreline. According to the report, 85% of respondents agreed that the proposed Coastal Area should be designated, while 78% supported the inclusion of the inland area. Statutory bodies, including East Riding of Yorkshire Council and North Yorkshire Council, have also indicated broad in-principle support for the designation.

Councillor Paul West, a cabinet member for environment and transport at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, described the progress as "fantastic news," noting that the region’s stunning natural landscapes already attract millions of visitors annually. He stated that the council would continue to advocate for the region’s formal recognition. Similarly, the Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority has unanimously backed the proposal, citing the potential for enhanced protection, nature recovery, and sustainable development.

For the coastal communities, the designation promises to formalise the identity of "spectacular" landmarks such as Bempton Cliffs and Flamborough Head. Respondents in the consultation highlighted the importance of these areas as a "haven for wildlife," specifically noting the presence of gannets, puffins, and seals. Supporters hope the status will unlock additional resources for environmental improvements and help manage the impact of erosion along the cliffs.

However, the plans have not been met with universal acclaim, with some local stakeholders raising concerns about the potential for increased bureaucracy and planning restrictions.

• Some members of the farming community expressed fears that AONB status could "pickle" the working landscape, potentially hindering food production and the development of modern agricultural infrastructure.
• Concerns were also raised regarding the loss of certain Permitted Development Rights, which some landowners believe could lead to economic stagnation.
• Others worried that the "label" might encourage an unmanageable influx of tourists to quiet areas, putting further pressure on narrow rural roads and local housing prices.

In response to these concerns, Natural England has emphasised that AONB designation is not intended to prohibit development or stifle farming. The agency maintains that the status provides a "valuable framework" for addressing issues like intensive land management and habitat loss through collaborative partnership rather than strict regulation.

The agency says the proposed boundaries have been carefully scrutinised, with some refinements made to exclude areas heavily influenced by existing development. While some respondents wished to see the boundary extended to the fringes of Bridlington and Filey, Natural England concluded that these areas are more heavily influenced by "urban fringe land uses" and do not always meet the strict criteria for outstanding natural beauty. Documents also show that the former Scarborough Borough Council's local plan had previously identified some of these areas for protection, though the new AONB status would provide the "highest level of protection" in national planning policy.

The project is now entering a statutory notice period, closing on 6 March 2026, during which the public can make further representations. Residents have been encouraged to view the final maps and technical assessments at local libraries and council offices.

Natural England remains of the opinion that the designation is a "proactive investment" that will celebrate and conserve the diversity of the Yorkshire Wolds for future generations.