The importance of protecting the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape

Designated Landscapes cover 25% of Wales and include National Parks and National Landscapes (formerly Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty AONB). The importance of these landscapes is recognised worldwide.

There are several key challenges that our landscape and communities face in the coming years, the following four key themes reflect these challenges.

Nature, Landscape and Heritage:

• Addressing decline in species and the impact of climate change on the habitats and landscapes of the National Landscape. 
• Preservation of the unique cultural heritage features. 
• Changes in land management practice.

Adapting to a Changing Climate:

The resilience of the National Landscape’s special qualities and features to climate change. The likely impact of our response to climate change on these special features and qualities– ensuring that our response to climate change takes into consideration the need to conserve landscape equality. 

Recreation, Health and Wellbeing:

• The value of the National Landscape in supporting physical and mental well-being. 
• Pressures of recreation and tourism on sensitive landscapes and rural communities. 

The Rural Economy:

Opportunities and challenges facing the rural economy within the National Landscape in terms of agricultural reform and climate change adaptation and mitigation requirements.