Great news from Peter Fellows of the IW AONB partnership. Ed
Supporters of the Isle of Wight’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Partnership are celebrating after receiving confirmation of a new four-year funding agreement from central government worth up to £500,000.
This very welcome commitment will enable the AONB team to continue its work with landowners and local communities to conserve and enhance the Island’s protected landscapes.
Supporting long term initiatives
This includes long term initiatives geared to protect the Island’s precious dark skies, as well as practical conservation works to improve the quality of heathland, chalk downs, sea cliffs, wetland and woodlands that together make the Island one of the richest areas for wildlife in the UK.
Crucially, the government funding will also enable the AONB team to continue working to secure further external support for projects which promote and celebrate the Island’s unique and varied landscape which over the last five years has brought more than £4m to the Island.
Richard Grogan, Chair of the AONB Partnership said:
“This is a welcome announcement, particularly in the current economic climate, and we are pleased the team can continue with security and confidence to provide the help to a wide range of partners to conserve and enhance the special nature of the Island’s AONB.”
Pete Fellows, AONB Acting Lead Officer added:
“This agreement is terrific news for the Island and is recognition of the inherent value of a well-managed, functioning landscape both for people’s health and well-being and for the incredible range of natural and cultural heritage assets that it contains.”
Image: © John Brownscombe
