Natural England

A fund to boost sustainable development in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) has succeeded in getting more than four hundred environmentally friendly, community focussed and economically beneficial projects up and running across the country.

In the Norfolk Coast AONB 24 projects received a total of £134,823. North Norfolk Reedcutters Association received £13,805 to buy equipment to help develop this traditional industry in an environmentally sound way, while helping to maintain important habitats along the coast. A further £5,729 was given to Norfolk County Council’s Coastal Futures project which aims to use the Norfolk coast to show teachers how this inspirational area can be used to raise achievements and aspirations.

Defra asked Natural England to set up a Sustainable Development Fund to help protect AONBs, while ensuring local communities prosper. Natural England is working with local AONB partnerships on issuing funds and finding the best ways of making the money work for individual sites.

Shaun Thomas, East of England Regional Director for Natural England, said: “This funding helps create a sustainable way of life for people living in areas of finest countryside. AONBs prosper when communities work together to support the local economy and care for the sensitive and unique environment.

“It’s great to see so many people powered projects working for a healthy and sustainable natural environment.”

Barry Gardiner, Minister for Biodiversity, Landscape and Rural Affairs said: "I am pleased with the success of the Sustainable Development Fund for Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the many varied and interesting projects which have benefited from it.

“Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are good for our health and wellbeing, and with our support the people living in and around them can help to combat climate change and take us a step closer to what we call One Planet Living."