Yorkshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty: proposed designation

Natural England proposes to designate an area of approximately 463 square kilometres as a new Area of Outstanding Beauty (AONB) in the Yorkshire Wolds.  AONBs were rebranded as National Landscapes in 2023, but are still legally referred to as AONBs.

The notice gives details of:

• how to make representations in relation to the draft order
• locations where you may examine hard copies of the draft order and maps
• how to view and/or download copies of the draft order and maps online

The draft designation maps (maps 1 to 3) indicate the land being proposed as a new Yorkshire Wolds AONB.

A formal statutory and public consultation on the proposed designation of a new AONB in the Yorkshire Wolds was held from October 2024 to January 2025.  The consultation received 251 responses.  Natural England considered the responses received during the consultation, including issues raised and requests for changes to the proposal.  A report on Natural England’s analysis of the responses received can be viewed following the link included above. 

You can also find the 3 updated technical assessments (natural beauty, desirability and boundary) on the Yorkshire Wolds AONB consultation page.

On 26 November 2025, Natural England’s Board reviewed the proposals and formally approved:

• the final technical assessments of whether Natural England should designate a new Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the Yorkshire Wolds
• a draft Order with regard to the designation of a new Yorkshire Wolds AONB
• proceeding to a formal period of notice (the Notice Period)

AnyThe representationclosing date for representations with reference to the draft Order, whether objecting to or in support of the draft Order, or proposing an amendment to the proposed boundary, maywas beFriday sent6 inMarch writing,2026.