We have had another busy and successful year in 2017/18 working in close partnership with others to conserve and enhance the AONB.

Here are just a few of the highlights, but please do read our latest Annual Review (a 5.8MB file) to find out more.

• carrying out practical conservation work throughout the AONB with the help of our dedicated AONB volunteers. There have been over 50 tasks during the last 12 months
• running a series of pilot events aimed at young families and children to help them discover , learn about and, most importantly, enjoy the countryside. Information gathered will help us develop our WILD! Project
• organising our 7th AONB Apple Day – held to celebrate the orchards of the AONB, their value in the landscape, as an important habitat for wildlife and for their contribution to the local economy. Over 800 visitors came along.
• working with the Arnside/Silverdale AONB Landscape Trust to offer an AONB Grants Fund and supporting 4 local projects that directly conserve and enhance the special qualities of the area, facilitate quiet enjoyment and/or connect people to the landscape
• working closely with South Lakeland District Council and Lancaster City Council on finalising a Joint Development Plan Document for the AONB – the first of its kind in the country
• organising and hosting a very successful conference, attended by over 70 delegates. The keynote speaker was Howard Davies, Chief Executive of the National Association for AONBs. He spoke about the impact of climate change on the environment, the great work being done by AONBs across the country and the Government’s 25 year environment plan

Looking ahead our priorities remain to foster collaboration, secure protection and enhancement of the special qualities of the AONB and to encourage people to enjoy and connect with the area. The AONB Management Plan, which will guide our work from 2019-24, is due to be published in the Spring.