Welcome to Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Designating somewhere an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty means we have to look after, enhance and protect it. Covering 380 square miles of Wiltshire, Dorset, Hampshire and Somerset, the area is the sixth largest of the UK's 47 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

AONB designation gives strong statutory protection for the future, especially important in the South, where development and economic pressures are intense. The AONB team aims to ensure that the right balance is maintained, so that these fine landscapes remain here for future generations. Conserving and enhancing the area whilst maintaining it as a living and working environment.

This website provides detail on landscape character, heritage and wildlife as well as local information for visitors and residents. Together we can enhance our knowledge of local history, share best practice, canvass support from associated agencies and jointly make the AONB a more vibrant, sustainable community for us all.

2010 has been declared the International Year of Biodiversity (IYB) by the United Nations. The IYB has over 200 partners ranging from universities and museums to theatre companies and artists who have come together to promote the understanding of biodiversity. This will help us learn more about the rich tapestry of life around us, discover why it’s important for a healthy environment and get involved in monitoring and conserving our local wildlife.

For up to date project and event news go online to www.biodiversity.net. We will showcase our own events throughout the year.


Other interesting websites:
Explore the historic landscape and find out about Historic Environment Action Plans - www.historiclandscape.co.uk
See the Wood for the Trees at the largest regional Woodfair October 2011 www.woodfair.org.uk
Discover more on other AONB's in our family of protected landscapes www.aonb.org.uk