Strangford and Lecale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Strangford Lough and Lecale Coast Areas of Oustanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) were redesignated under the Nature Conservation and Amenity Lands (NI) Order 1985.
This legislation gives greater opportunities for positive action towards the conservation and enjoyment of landscapes, heritage and wildlife and the promotion of public access.
AONBs are landscape areas officially recognised for their high scenic quality in Northern Ireland. They are designated under countryside legislation by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) on behalf of the Department of the Environment. AONB-designated land remains the property of its existing owners, designation doesn’t demand a change in management of land and there is no change in public access to it.
Development is not prohibited because of AONB designation. The designation indicates that these landscapes are of high value to society and merit extra care to keep their outstanding qualities for future generations to enjoy.
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Picture courtesy of Michael Collins