AONB Management Review

Management of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in NMDDC and ANDBC: A Comprehensive Review

Welcome to the in-depth report examining the current (2019) management arrangements for three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) within Newry, Mourne and Down District Council (NMDDC) and Ards and North Down Borough Council (ANDBC) – namely, Ring of Gullion AONB, Strangford and Lecale AONB, and Mourne AONB.

Key Highlights:

1. Contextual Overview: The report places current AONB management arrangements in the broader context of relevant policies, frameworks, and the changing landscape management context in Northern Ireland.
2. Governance and Value for Money Assessment: An exploration of governance structures and a comprehensive value-for-money assessment for AONB Management in NMDDC and ANDBC, including achievements, strengths, weaknesses, and a financial overview.
3. Unique Management Approach for Mourne AONB: Recognizing the distinct management approach for Mourne AONB, managed through a service level agreement with the Mourne Heritage Trust (MHT). This section details arrangements, achievements, and organizational resilience.
4. Funding Mechanisms: An analysis of the funding streams required for AONB operational sustainability, including current support for AONB management plans and work programs.
5. Case Studies: Insights from case studies in other regions, showcasing successful implementation of relevant policies and practices. Examples include Social Return on Investment in Pentland Hills Regional Park (Scotland), AONB and Geopark Management in North Pennines AONB, Stakeholder Groups and Annual Business Plans in Wye Valley, and Management Topics and Local Authority Engagement in Suffolk Coasts and Heaths AONB.

Specific Recommendations to Local Authorities:

The report concludes with specific recommendations to NMDDC and ANDBC, addressing governance, relationships with stakeholders, communication strategies, funding consistency, policy alignment, and the establishment of AONB offices and focal points.

Your Involvement Matters:

We encourage you to review the recommendations and actively engage in their implementation. Your commitment will contribute to the sustained success of AONB management and further enhance the natural beauty of these exceptional landscapes.