Much of the Suffolk
Coastal district is nationally recognised for its high
landscape quality and was designated in 1969 by the
Countryside Commission (now
the Countryside Agency (new window)) as the
Suffolk Coast & Heaths Area of Outstanding
Natural Beauty (AONB)(new window).
The Council is required to exercise special care in
protecting and enhancing the character of the AONB. Policies in the
Suffolk County Structure Plan (new window)
and in the
Suffolk Coastal Local Plan reflect this. The
Council works with a number of partners to manage the AONB. The
Suffolk Coast and Heaths Unit (new
window) helps co-ordinate this work.
The Suffolk River
Valleys, which extend inland from the AONB, are also of
considerable landscape importance. Policies in the adopted
Suffolk Coastal Local Plan have defined the
most sensitive areas as Special Landscape Areas. Policies seek
to ensure that development does not detract from the character
of these valleys.
The Suffolk River Valleys are mostly designated
Environmentally Sensitive Areas (new window)
for which traditional management is supported by grants
available from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural
Affairs (Defra).
The landscape quality of areas not subject to special
designations is also important. Local Plan policies reflect this;
specialist guidance and advice is given to ensure the landscape is
treated sensitively.
For more information contact the Landscape Officer on
01394 444420 or email
community&economic@suffolkcoastal.gov.uk