Proposal submitted for new Yorkshire Wolds National Landscape
A proposal to designate a new Yorkshire Wolds National Landscape, marking the first new Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in England for over 30 years, has been submitted.
A family take a bike ride through the Yorkshire Wolds landscape
Natural England has submitted a proposal to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to designate a brand-new Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in the Yorkshire Wolds, to be known as the Yorkshire Wolds National Landscape.
The proposal, submitted on 8 September 2026, would see approximately 463km² of the Yorkshire Wolds recognised for its outstanding natural beauty. If confirmed, this would be the first new AONB to be designated anywhere in England in over 30 years.
Paul Duncan, Deputy Director for Natural England in Yorkshire, said:
Submitting this proposal marks a hugely significant milestone, not just for the Yorkshire Wolds, but for landscape conservation across England. This has been years in the making, and reflects the passion and dedication of local communities, landowners and stakeholders who have helped shape these plans.
The Yorkshire Wolds is a landscape of real distinction, and we believe it deserves the recognition, protection and investment that National Landscape status can bring.
The proposal follows years of technical assessment and public consultation, including a formal Notice Period allowing anyone to submit representations. Support across consultations has been strong, ranging from 80 to 95 per cent, alongside some objections, all of which have been carefully considered.
The Secretary of State will now review the evidence and decide whether to confirm, amend or refuse the Order. There is no set timescale for this decision, and the Yorkshire Wolds gains no new status unless and until it is confirmed.
Natural England carries out this work under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, to conserve and enhance England’s finest landscapes for future generations. Designation would also support nature recovery, climate resilience, public health and wellbeing, and local tourism, and would deliver the area’s first coordinated management plan, helping focus conservation efforts and unlock further funding.
Natural England would like to thank everyone who has contributed to this project so far and looks forward to the next stage of the process.
Notes
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The proposal was submitted alongside a separate proposal to extend the Surrey Hills AONB, as both projects form part of Natural England’s landscape designation programme.
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AONBs (National Landscapes) are designated solely for the purpose of conserving and enhancing the natural beauty of a landscape.
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Further information on the Yorkshire Wolds project is available at Yorkshire Wolds Designation Project