CAMPAIGNERS looking after Dorset's protected landscapes have welcomed a review which aims to improve such areas.

Environment Secretary Michael Gove said he was committed to conserve and enhance England’s finest landscapes as he launched a review of England’s National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

An independent panel will look at how these areas meet our needs in the 21st century – including whether there is scope for the current network of 34 AONBs and 10 National Parks to expand.

It will also explore how access to these landscapes can be improved, how those who live and work in them can be better supported, and their role in growing the rural economy.

It is said that weakening or undermining their existing protections or geographic scope will not be part of the review, – it will instead focus on how designated areas can boost wildlife, support the recovery of natural habitats and connect more people with nature.

Dorset has two AONBs – Cranborne Chase in the north east and Dorset AONB in the south and west. It is the English county most covered by these landscape protections, in recognition of its outstanding beauty. The designations and the county’s inherent natural beauty are a key contributor to Dorset’s environmental economy, recently valued at £1.5bn per annum.

Dorset AONB Chairman Jim White MBE said: “We’re delighted that the Environment Secretary has underlined his commitment to protected landscapes and look forward to fully participating in the review. Since the Dorset AONB was designated in 1959, the world has moved on and it’s right that we should look into how these areas fulfil a basic human need for beautiful, inspiring places in which to live, work, and relax.”