The islands were designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1975, the purpose of this designation is to help maintain and enhance their 'natural beauty'. Natural beauty isn't just the look of the landscape, but includes geology, plants and animals, landscape features and the rich history of human settlement.
The AONB designation recognises that the landscape character of Scilly has been created and maintained by human activity and that it is crucial to sustain the local community so that this careful stewardship can continue. The co-operation of people, especially farmers, landowners and those involved in local industry and commerce, is vital to the protection of the AONB and the maintenance of the natural beauty that is so attractive to visitors.
In 2000 an Act of Parliament, the Countryside and Rights of Way Act strengthened the AONB designation. Now a statutory designation, all public bodies and statutory undertakers must 'have regard' for the purposes of the AONB in carrying out their work. This Act placed a duty on Local Authorities to produce and regularly review an AONB Management Plan.
In May 2001 an AONB Officer was employed by the Council to develop a Management Plan. Her work is guided by a partnership of local and national organisations called a joint Advisory Group. Details of organisations involved in the JAC and other work of the AONB staff unit is available on the Isles of Scilly AONB website Opens in a new window. The AONB Management Plan is reviewed every five years.
The Management Plan contains more than just policy and objectives. It identifies the actions or projects that will take objectives forward highlighting the organisation responsible for carrying out projects and the timetable within which work is to be completed. The Plan also provides a supportive document for related project funding applications.
Relevant links
Isles of Scilly AONB Opens in a new window
Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust Opens in a new window
Countryside Agency Opens in a new window
National Association for Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty Opens in a new window
Wildlife Trusts Opens in a new window
