Section 3

3.1 Introduction

The purpose of the AONB designation is to conserve the natural beauty of the landscape. Yet the landscape, along with the rest of the English countryside, is not just a result of natural forces. It is constantly evolving as a result of the many social and economic forces placed upon it. The vision for the Surrey Hills recognises that the landscape will change but it needs to ensure that it changes in a way that conserves and enhances the special qualities described in Section 2 of this document. In doing so, it also needs to maintain the social and economic viability of the Surrey Hills in a sustainable manner.

The Management Plan is aspirational. The 20 year vision statement sets the context and guides the Management Plan policies that are set out on a topic basis in this Section.

3.2 The Vision for 2030

The Vision for the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for all local partners to embrace and work towards is:

Farming is a viable enterprise that plays a positive role in maintaining the outstanding and diverse character of the Surrey Hills

Ancient woodlands and other woodlands of high environmental quality are sustainably managed and linked in ways that protect and enhance the landscape, ecological, archaeological and recreational value of the wider Surrey Hills landscape.

The biodiversity of the Surrey Hills is enhanced through the management of important habitats and their extension in the wider landscape.

The historic and cultural heritage that defines the distinctive sense of place within the Surrey Hills is recorded, protected, managed and celebrated.

Local visitors and tourists enjoy and cherish the Surrey Hills as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for its own intrinsic qualities and in ways that contribute to the economy of the area, without having a significant adverse impact on local communities and the quality of the environment

Development enhances local character and has a minimal impact on the environmental quality of the nationally important landscape setting.

Transport measures reinforce the rural character of the area and provide safe and convenient access for people who live in, work in or visit the Surrey Hills.

The Surrey Hills is an attractive, affordable and sustainable place to live, work and enjoy for all members of the local community.