SOME of south east England's most beautiful landscapes have a more secure future as a result of new funding and support announced by the Countryside Agency this week.
The agency is channelling almost £18 million countrywide into Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) over the next three years so local authorities have the resources they need to manage them.
Duncan MacKay, Countryside Agency regional director for the South East and London, said: "The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 created a new framework to bring AONB conservation up to the same standards as National Parks.
"Our Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty should be living and working landscapes which everyone can enjoy.
"A beautiful landscape can provide real opportunities for rural business and communities. The new funds will be allocated to AONBs in our region following an objective review of each area's needs."
The Countryside Agency will offer grants of up to 75 per cent of the costs of management structure of AONBs, provide grants of up to 50 per cent for demonstration projects and publish guidance for management.
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