Decision details

To consider the setting up of a partnership to explore an AONB for the Exe Valley and other issues.

The Cabinet had before it a *report of the Head of Planning, Economy and Regeneration previously considered by the Environment and Economy Policy Development Groups regarding the feasibility of obtaining Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) status for the Exe Valley.

The Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Regeneration outlined the contents of the report stating that the Council recognised the natural beauty of the Exe Valley and how the environmental quality of the area could be protected.  There was a need to look at the process of designating such an area, the financial implications and maintenance costs.  He outlined the 4 options that had been considered by the Environment and Economy Policy Development Groups (PDG) and reported that both groups had come to very different conclusions.  In May of this year the Environment Secretary had sought a review of National Parks and AONBs to see how best designation could be achieved, the outcome of the review was expected from DEFRA in 2019.

The Leader read a letter from the Chairman of the Economy PDG which outlined the views of the Group which included:

·         The possibly inflationary effect on house prices in the area

·         Whether the whole of the area warranted such a designation

·         Cost implications for the project

·         The possible effect on agriculture

The Chairman of the Environment Policy Development Group was invited to address the meeting, he stated that the vote in favour of option 1 was not unanimous, he did not support the option as he felt that although the Exe Valley was a lovely area it was not under threat and the cost in terms of project development had not been budgeted for; he would therefore urge the Cabinet not to proceed with such a designation.

Discussion took place regarding:

·         The proposed review of National Parks and AONBs and whether it would be worthwhile to wait for the outcome of the review

·         The beauty of the area and whether such a designation would increase tourism

·         Financial implications and the lack of an agreed budget for the project

·         Whether AONB protection  would be beneficial to the area

·         The proposed area to be designated and whether it was too vast

·         The possibility of extending the Exmoor National Park to take in some of the proposed area

·         Whether another AONB in the area would impact on contributions made to the Blackdown Hills  AONB

RESOLVED that in the light of views from the Council’s policy development groups for the Environment and Economy being substantially different, that officers be asked to bring back a revised options paper once the Government’s review of National Parks and AONBs has concluded, in order to reconsider the options in light of any recommendations or changes that arise from this.  

(Proposed by Cllr R J Chesterton and seconded by Cllr Mrs M E Squires)

Notes: 

i)          Cllr R L Stanley requested that his vote against the decision be recorded;

ii)         *Report previously circulated, copy attached to minutes.