Howardian Hills AONB Annex , Item

HOWARDIAN HILLS AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY

TEXT-ONLY VERSION

MANAGEMENT PLAN

2014 – 2019

the need to manage ecosystems in an integrated fashion, linking goals on wildlife, water, soil and landscape, and working at a scale that respects natural systems.

This management plan also makes the important connection between people and nature. I am pleased to hear that local communities have been central to the development of the plan, and will be at the heart of its delivery. From volunteers on nature conservation projects, to businesses working to promote sustainable tourism, it’s great to hear of the enthusiasm and commitment of the local people who hold their AONBs so dear. Ministerial Foreword AONBs are, and will continue to be, landscapes of change. Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) are some of our finest Management plans such as this are vital in ensuring these changes landscapes. They are cherished by residents and visitors alike and are for the better. I would like to thank all those who were involved in allow millions of people from all walks of life to understand and bringing this plan together and I wish you every success in bringing it connect with nature. to fruition.

I am pleased to see that this management plan demonstrates how AONB Partnerships can continue to protect these precious environments despite the significant challenges they face. With a changing climate, the increasing demands of a growing population and in difficult economic times, I believe AONBs represent just the sort of community driven, collaborative approach needed to ensure our natural environment is maintained for generations to come. Lord de Mauley MP AONB Partnerships have been the architects of a landscape-scale Minister for Natural Environment and Fisheries approach to land management. This approach is a key feature of the Government’s Natural Environment White Paper and emphasises

CONTENTS

Page Foreword

Part One Introduction

1.1 The Howardian Hills AONB

1.2 Special Qualities

1.3 The AONB Partnership

1.4 The AONB Management Plan

1.5 Landscape character

Part Two Achieving a Vision

2.1 A Vision for a Living Landscape

2.2 The Ecosystem Approach

2.3 A Rich Heritage

2.3.1 Natural Environment 2.3.2 Historic Environment

2.4 Living and Working in the Howardian Hills

2.4.1 Local Communities 2.4.2 Agriculture 2.4.3 Forestry and Woodland

2.4.4 Development & the Rural Economy 2.4.5 Roads, Transport and Traffic Management

2.5 Enjoying the AONB

2.5.1 Recreation, Access and Tourism

2.6 Awareness and Promotion

Part Three Implementation

3.1 Putting the Plan into Action

3.2 Monitoring

3.3 Action Programme

Glossary

Landscape Management & Priority Sites

[The Evidence Base and Priority Sites descriptions & map are on the CD on the inside of the back cover]

1.1 THE HOWARDIAN HILLS Derwent Valley, it extends to the rising ground Particular regard should be paid to of the Yorkshire Wolds. Roughly rectangular in promoting sustainable forms of social and AREA OF OUTSTANDING shape and up to 16 miles (25km) long by 6 economic development that in themselves NATURAL BEAUTY miles (10km) wide, it covers 79 square miles conserve and enhance the environment. (204 sq. km). Section 2.3 (A Rich Heritage) describes the landscape and its characteristic  Recreation is not an objective of The Howardian Hills is one of 46 areas in features in more detail. designation, but the demand for England, Wales and Northern Ireland that have recreation should be met so far as this is been designated as Areas of Outstanding Administratively, the AONB falls within the consistent with the conservation of Natural Beauty (AONB). AONBs, together with County of North Yorkshire and is divided natural beauty and the needs of National Parks and Heritage Coasts, cover some between the Districts of Ryedale and agriculture, forestry and other uses. of the most spectacular and unspoilt Hambleton. Containing all or part of 44 landscapes in the country. The designation was Parishes, which are administered by 29 Parish Natural beauty is defined as including flora, confirmed by the Secretary of State for the Councils or Meetings, the designated area has fauna and geological as well as landscape Environment on 19th October 1987. As one of a population of approximately 6,100 people. A features. The conservation of archaeological, seven protected landscape areas in North further 3,200 live in villages just outside the architectural and vernacular features is also Yorkshire, the Howardian Hills AONB plays an designated boundary (1). important, since the landscape is continually important role in both local and regional being shaped by human influence. Whilst the landscape and wildlife conservation, as well as The purpose of designation character of AONBs often differs from that of in tourism, leisure and the rural economy. It Government guidance (2) describes the National Parks, in landscape and legal terms also ranks alongside some of the world's best‐ purpose of designation as follows: they have equal status and protection. known landscapes, such as the USA's National Parks and the Amazon Rainforest, as part of the  The primary purpose of designation is to Section 85 of the Countryside and Rights of International Union for the Conservation of conserve and enhance natural beauty. Way (CRoW) Act 2000 places a 'duty of care' on Nature’s family of Protected Areas. relevant bodies, by stating that:  In pursuing the primary purpose of The Howardian Hills AONB designation, account should be taken of "In exercising or performing any function in Lying between the Vale of Pickering and the the needs of agriculture, forestry, and relation to, or so as to affect, land in an area Vale of York, the Howardian Hills AONB forms a other rural industries and of the economic of outstanding natural beauty, a relevant clearly defined geographical area of well‐ and social needs of communities. authority shall have regard to the purpose of wooded rolling countryside (see Figure 1). In conserving and enhancing the natural beauty the north west the AONB abuts the North York (1) Mid‐Year Estimates for 2010; ONS; Crown Copyright of the area of outstanding natural beauty." Moors National Park; in the east, along the (2) Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty: A Policy Statement, Countryside Commission, CCP 352, 1992 5

Central to the management of the AONB is the In order to satisfy both the Section 85 CRoW concept of sustainable development, as Act Duty to Have Regard and the principles of defined in the Brundtland Report: sustainable development, all policies within

“development that meets the needs of the other plans, strategies and programmes should present without compromising the ability of adequately reflect the national importance of future generations to meet their own needs.” the AONB.

Figure 1: AONB general area

1.2 SPECIAL QUALITIES the landscape together. The strongest of these  A landscape of high visual quality is the dominance of woodland, which seems to The variety of landform and land use form a green web across the whole area. The produces a contrast in scale, colour, texture The primary purpose of AONB designation is “to open sweeping views from the ridge tops and and form. The settings of the historic conserve and enhance natural beauty”. It is the quiet intimacy of the enclosed valleys are houses, the extensive woodlands, the broad therefore essential to define as clearly as experiences which constantly recur whilst sweeping views and the unspoilt farming possible the character of the landscape, travelling through the area. The sheer landscapes and traditional building styles recognising both its Special Qualities and the complexity of the land cover, with its rich have a special aesthetic appeal. forces for change that act upon it. patchwork of crops, pastures, woods, trees and hedgerows is another consistent quality across  A remarkable heritage Although the Howardian Hills landscape is most of the area.” The Howardian Hills has a concentration of heavily‐wooded it is essentially a farmed archaeological and historic features, ranging landscape, so agricultural and forestry practices More specifically, the key Special Qualities are from Iron Age earthworks on prominent play a dominant role in shaping its appearance. considered to be: hilltops to the castles and monasteries of the medieval period. The numerous grand The evolution of the landscape of the area since  An unusual landform houses and designed landscapes, such as prehistoric times, and the forces for change The Howardian Hills is the only area of Castle Howard, Newburgh Priory, which continue to shape it, are described in Jurassic limestone landscape in the north of Hovingham Hall, Gilling Castle and detail in The Howardian Hills Landscape, a England to be designated as an AONB. The Nunnington Hall, have a dramatic effect report prepared by consultants in 1995 (3). The deeply incised Kirkham Gorge is a unique upon the landscape. report summarised the Special Qualities of the glacial overflow channel of great scientific AONB as follows: importance.  An important wildlife resource The AONB contains a section of the unique “The Howardian Hills have a strong unity of  A richly varied landscape River Derwent, with its outstanding wild visual character, not least because they are The landform consists of a complex system plants and animals. Other habitats of physically separated from the surrounding of ridges, hills and valleys (see Figure 2). national importance include fens and countryside, but also because there are a These are clothed with a mosaic of relatively extensive remnants of Ancient number of common characteristics which bind woodland, rolling arable fields, small‐scale Semi‐Natural Woodland. pasture, fens, hedges and walls, formal parkland and scattered settlements. Whilst each of these attributes is important in (3) The Howardian Hills Landscape, Cobham Resource its own right, it is their combination in a Consultants, Countryside Commission, 1995

relatively small area that has produced a landscape of national significance.

Tranquillity AONBs and National Parks are increasingly seen as calm and tranquil areas, where people can relax and get away from the rush of modern life.

Whilst agricultural and forestry operations are generally seen as being part of rural life, features such as traffic noise, minerals workings, excessive lighting and aircraft noise can all be detrimental to the feeling of tranquillity.

Although the Howardian Hills are not especially tranquil in national terms, this means it is particularly important to protect those parts of the AONB that do still have relatively high levels of tranquillity. In 2006 55% of the AONB was categorised as having a relatively High or Very High level of tranquillity for its area. (4)

(4) CPRE/Natural England, 2013 9

Designated Sites

SITE DESIGNATION European significance Special Area of Conservation (SAC) 1 National significance Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) 8 Scheduled Monument (SM) 79 Registered Park and Garden (RPG) 5 Listed Building 373 Local significance Conservation Area 11 Site of Importance for Nature Conservation 70 (SINC)

Figure 2: Topography

1.3 THE AONB PARTNERSHIP recreation and environmental management day basis, as well as monitoring the allocation issues affecting the AONB; of grants from the JAC’s various grant schemes.

A Joint Advisory Committee (JAC) was  Consider and advise on development and The AONB Partnership Group involves a wider established for the Howardian Hills AONB in spatial plan policies, proposals and reviews range of organisations and specialisms not 1992 to help agree a co‐ordinated approach. Its as they relate to the AONB; currently represented on either the JAC or Core members include representatives of the Funders Group. It acts as a co‐ordinated following organisations:  Discuss major issues affecting the character delivery and monitoring mechanism for the of the AONB and, where appropriate, make Management Plan at officer level. It also North Yorkshire County Council recommendations; provides a forum for Parish Councils to engage Ryedale District Council with the AONB Unit and other organisations in Hambleton District Council  Act as a forum where the three local the wider AONB Partnership. Ryedale Parish Councils authorities can discuss and co‐ordinate Hambleton Parish Councils their activities; Natural England Forestry Commission  Suggest priorities for action, agree and National Farmers Union monitor an annual work programme and Country Land and Business Association identify the resources required to carry out Ramblers the work.

The main work of the JAC is to: The Joint Advisory Committee normally meets three times a year, in order to make formal  Advise and steer the preparation and policy decisions and monitor the work of the implementation of a Management Plan; AONB Unit and AONB Partnership.

 Promote awareness and understanding of A small Working Group of officers from the the AONB for the purposes for which it was local authorities and Natural England meets designated; regularly with the AONB Unit and also provides the JAC with support. This Core Funders Group  Advise local authorities and other bodies considers budget and policy issues on a day‐to‐ on countryside conservation, informal

1.4 THE AONB MANAGEMENT and opportunities that these pressures bring benefit AONB objectives, particularly in relation are addressed and guided in a way that to work with communities, countryside PLAN conserves and enhances the landscape of the management advice and development control. AONB. The policy and strategy context The Countryside and Rights of Way (CRoW) Act There are a large number of plans and The basis for the Management Plan 2000 placed a statutory duty on all local strategies that impact on the landscape, The Howardian Hills contains a wide range of authorities to prepare and adopt Management economy and communities of the Howardian features – woodland, parkland, farmland, rivers Plans for AONBs within their areas. The Plan Hills. They operate at an international level, and lakes; all of which provide a variety of must provide a Vision, together with a set of e.g. the European Landscape Convention, wildlife habitats. Objectives and Actions, which formulate the national level e.g. National Planning Policy local authority policies for the AONB and help Framework (NPPF), a county level e.g. Minerals Changing demands on agricultural land, the to define their functions in relation to it. It and Waste Local Development Frameworks economics of woodland management and a should also raise the profile of AONB and a local level e.g. Local Development variety of environmental factors constantly management issues and demonstrate the Frameworks, Biodiversity Action Plans (BAPs), alter the relationship between different land commitment of all public bodies, statutory and Community Strategies. uses, bringing changes to the landscape. A undertakers and other interested organisations number of tourist attractions lie within the to the management of the area. The The important focus of the AONB Management AONB and it also has many villages, large constituent local authorities agreed that the Plan, and what differentiates it from these country houses and Estates that are popular Joint Advisory Committee should co‐ordinate other plans and strategies, is the primary with visitors. Several tourist routes cross the the preparation of the Management Plan on purpose to conserve and enhance the natural area, whilst the major attractions of York, the their behalf. The three local authorities must beauty of the Howardian Hills. The North York Moors National Park and the coast adopt this revised Plan by 1st April 2014. Management Plan ‘adds value’, by informing are also nearby. In the past there have been other plans and indicating how their policies few threats from major development Although the Management Plan is written can be implemented within the AONB. proposals. With development of the rural specifically for the designated area of the economy, increased levels of traffic and AONB, activities adjacent to the formal In terms of development control, the AONB lies pressure for housing, there is no guarantee boundary can have an impact on the AONB within areas covered by the Ryedale and that this fortunate situation will continue. The itself or its setting. The work of the Joint Hambleton District Councils, who are Management Plan, in combination with the Advisory Committee may therefore take it responsible for local planning matters. The area spatial plans covering the area, provides a outside the formal boundary when this would is also covered by North Yorkshire County useful means for ensuring that the problems

Council, which has responsibility for minerals Because many of the activities which can the situation within the AONB is constantly and waste planning. The formal plans that radically alter the character of the landscape changing and the Management Plan can only guide the day‐to‐day planning decisions taken do not fall within planning control, the AONB be a ‘snap‐shot’ of the time at which it was by these Councils can be obtained from them. Management Plan provides an essential tool to written. help guide future land management activity, The Howardian Hills AONB Management Plan funding, development and recreational use. The Plan therefore will be under constant As described above, the AONB Management review to ensure that its overall aims are being Plan has a clearly defined purpose and role Achieving a consensus for this type of approach achieved, and the next formal review will take within the suite of other plans and strategies. It naturally involves all who own or work the place in 2018/19. provides a framework for partnership, by land, as well as the local authorities, helping all those who have an interest and Government departments and agencies, involvement in the AONB to see ways in which voluntary groups, local residents and the many their individual or collective efforts and individuals who enjoy the area. decisions can contribute to looking after the area. A primary aim is to gain their support and For this review of the Management Plan a to this end the Plan provides a focus for: series of Topic Groups considered how well the 2009‐2014 Plan had performed and identified  Drawing together up‐to‐date information the issues likely to be encountered over the on the AONB. next five years. The information was then used to revise and update the Objectives and  Considering conflicting pressures and Actions for the 2014‐2019 Plan. issues. A number of technical research documents and  Establishing clear and practical Objectives statistics were also used – these can be found and Actions to guide integrated decision‐ in the Evidence Base under the respective making and progress on the ground. chapter headings.

 Recommending priorities for action. The policies and priorities of other organisations are constantly evolving and the  Identifying the resources and funding AONB Management Plan doesn’t aim to required. reference or summarise all of them. Likewise,

1.5 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER c. North Ridge d. Caulkleys Bank

4. Vales Variations in landscape character a. Vale of York By analysing various landscape elements, a b. Vale of Pickering number of broad landscape character types c. Crayke have been identified. Each has its own unique combination of characteristics which give it a 5. Castle Howard Basin special sense of place. A full description of the individual landscape types is contained in The 6. Central Hills and Valleys Howardian Hills Landscape report. (5) 7. Derwent Gorge The landscape character types are illustrated in Figure 3. The AONB has seven types with, in places, local sub‐divisions: As these landscape character types reflect differences in landform, vegetation and land 1. Plateau management, they have been used as a basis for dividing the AONB into the Management 2. Upland Fringes Zones referred to in the Landscape a. Northern Plateau Fringe Management & Priority Sites section of the b. Western Plateau Fringe Plan. c. Southern Plateau Fringe d. Southern Moors Fringe e. Eastern Moors Fringe

3. Ridges a. South Ridge b. South East Ridge

(5) The Howardian Hills Landscape, Cobham Resource Consultants, Countryside Commission, 1995 15

Figure 3: Landscape character areas

2.1 A VISION FOR A LIVING conditions are beginning to influence still be notable for its extensive woodland, management decisions that affect the AONB. rolling agricultural fields, large country houses LANDSCAPE and designed parklands. The threats to the Of vital importance are the local communities natural and cultural resources of the AONB within the AONB, as only by acting jointly can will have been addressed and these assets will Section 2.3 (A Rich Heritage) describes the any significant progress be made on some be sympathetically managed within a diverse physical character of the AONB landscape and issues. The work of community development and prosperous rural economy. Active and the elements that contribute to its Special organisations has led to a noticeable increase resilient communities will have increased Qualities. Apart from the geology and natural in community activity over the last five years. opportunities for people of all ages to live and landform of the Howardian Hills, all the other Affordable/local needs housing for key local work in the area. Residents and visitors alike factors that influence the way the AONB looks workers and providing services to the relatively will be able to enjoy and appreciate the AONB and feels are largely governed by human dispersed communities of the Howardian Hills in an environmentally sustainable way. activity (past and present). It is the actions of remain as significant challenges however. people, acting as both individuals and Key Vision Aims: communities, which shapes the area and gives The Vision for the Howardian Hills must  Farming, forestry and local businesses will it its ‘sense of place’. therefore recognise that the landscape will be environmentally, socially and change, but it needs to ensure that it does so in economically sustainable, thriving and All the issues and factors described in a way that conserves and enhances its Special developing due to the Special Qualities of subsequent sections of this Plan combine in a Qualities. This will be a particular challenge the AONB. constantly variable pattern to define the over the next 5‐year period, given the difficult  All SSSIs will be in Favourable Condition, character of the Howardian Hills. It is therefore economic conditions and the Government’s with the long‐standing water quality issues the activities, hopes and aspirations of the likely policies in response to that. on the River Derwent resolved. people who live and work in the area or enjoy  All Ancient Woodland SINCs will have been it for leisure and recreation that will ultimately The Vision restored, or be in the process of determine its future. The policies in the AONB Management Plan restoration, to native broadleaves.

need to be guided by a long‐term goal. The  All grassland SINCs will be in sustainable In addition to ‘everyday’ human factors there Vision for local people and partner grazing/cutting management regimes. are the unpredictable impacts of climate organisations to work towards for 2035 is:  Habitats within the AONB will be linked to change. Invasive species of plants and animals, the wider landscape, to form a coherent new diseases affecting tree species, and the The Howardian Hills will continue to be a network of green infrastructure. impact of severe/prolonged localised weather tranquil and well‐managed rural area. It will

 Designated Heritage Assets (Scheduled be in place to cater for the majority of physical and mental stimulation they Monuments, Listed Buildings, Registered needs. provide. Parks & Gardens, etc) will be in sustainable  Personal transport is still likely to be management, in the Low/Not at Risk important, but will be powered by more The Management Plan contains Objectives category as defined by English Heritage. sustainable fuels. and Actions for the period 2014‐2019 under  There will be a more diverse mix of  All Rights of Way will be easy to use, with three broad themes: A Rich Heritage; Living housing units/tenures and more services the minimum of barriers to all types of and Working in the Howardian Hills; and will be delivered at community level or user. Enjoying the AONB. Achievement of the remotely e.g. via the internet, thereby  A wide cross‐section of society will enjoy Objectives and Actions for this 5‐year period reducing the need to travel. and appreciate the Special Qualities of the should contribute to the ultimate  Where travel is necessary, a network of AONB, for their intrinsic value and for the achievement of the Vision. public and community transport links will

2.2 THE ECOSYSTEM 1. Taking a more holistic approach to policy‐ Howardian Hills) contains a list of the making and delivery, with the focus on ecosystem services that the NCA provides. 75% APPROACH maintaining healthy ecosystems and of the AONB is within NCA 29, with 10% in the ecosystem services. Vale of Pickering NCA, 8% in the Vale of York 2. Ensuring that the value of ecosystem NCA and 2% in the North York Moors & One of the key documents guiding this revision services is fully reflected in decision‐ Cleveland Hills NCA. of the AONB Management Plan is Biodiversity making. 2020: a strategy for England’s wildlife and 3. Ensuring that environmental limits are The principal ecosystems services provided by ecosystem services. respected in the context of sustainable NCA 29, and their condition/issues, are

development, taking into account considered to be: Outcome 1C is of particular relevance to ecosystem functioning. AONBs and sets out the challenge that we are 4. Taking decisions at the appropriate Provisioning services (food, fibre and water helping to meet: spatial scale, while recognising the supply)

cumulative impacts of those decisions.  Food provision: Over 82% of the NCA is Outcome 1C: By 2020, at least 17% of land and 5. Promoting adaptive management of the cultivated – mostly crops and fallow, with inland water, especially areas of particular natural environment to respond to smaller areas of permanent grassland. The importance for biodiversity and ecosystem changing pressures, including climate fertile soils are mostly grade 2 or 3 services, [will be] conserved through effective, change. agricultural land. Holdings are largely given integrated and joined up approaches to 6. Identifying and involving all relevant over to the production of cereals, mixed safeguard biodiversity and ecosystem services stakeholders in the decision and plan‐ and general cropping, lowland sheep and including through management of our existing making process. cattle. systems of protected areas and the  Timber provision: The NCA has a high establishment of nature improvement areas. The 2009‐2014 Management Plan was already proportion of woodland cover and includes

built on these principles. One of the key tasks substantial areas of timber production, The milestone for this action is that Biodiversity for the 2014‐2019 Plan period however is to much of it from conifer plantation. 2020 and ecosystem targets will be integrated better understand how individual projects and  Biomass energy: Defra maps show a into AONB Management Plans by March 2014. developments impact on the various medium potential yield for short rotation ecosystem services that the AONB provides. In 2010 Defra published six principles which coppice and miscanthus. underpin an Ecosystem Approach.  Water availability: The NCA overlies a The National Character Area (NCA) profile minor post‐Carboniferous rock aquifer. produced by Natural England for NCA 29 (the Land management practices influence the

extent to which water at the surface will good soil management practices to Cultural services (inspiration, education and infiltrate and recharge groundwater maintain soil structure. The NCA’s slowly wellbeing) supplies. There is no water available for permeable soils are at risk of suffering  Sense of place/inspiration: The sense of further abstraction from the River compaction and reduced infiltration, which place is framed by the landform – a belt of Derwent, largely to protect downstream can result in diffuse pollution/ complex rounded limestone and flow levels outside the NCA. sedimentation. calcareous sandstone ridges rising above  Regulating water quality: The NCA the surrounding vales. The landscape is a Regulating services (water purification, air straddles two of Defra’s priority diverse mosaic of sheltered valleys, quality maintenance and climate regulation) catchments (Yorkshire Derwent and woodland, parkland and villages, with  Climate regulation: The soils tend to have Yorkshire Ouse, Nidd & Swale), with only open arable and large‐scale plantations on a low carbon content, of between 0 and ‘moderate’ water quality and identified the intervening ridges and plateaux, 5%. There is a higher carbon content in the problems of diffuse agricultural pollution offering extensive views over the vales. woodland soils and in semi‐natural from phosphates and nitrates from areas The extent of designed parkland is a habitats (particularly wetlands), with under cultivation. These issues can be defining characteristic. opportunities to increase carbon addressed through good nutrient and soil  Sense of history: A sense of history is storage/sequestration through enhanced management, and through measures to evident in the remains of Bronze Age burial management of these. buffer watercourses and trap sediment, mounds, Iron Age earthworks circling  Regulating soil erosion: In over 50% of the including appropriately sited woodland prominent hills, and deserted medieval area the soils are classed as being prone to creation. settlements. There is significant evidence erosion. The NCA straddles two of Defra’s  Regulating water flow: There is some of Roman occupation, and a strong pattern priority catchments (Yorkshire Derwent flood risk associated with the River of medieval nucleated settlement in the and Yorkshire Ouse, Nidd & Swale), where Derwent and its tributaries. Land valleys. Historic designed parkland the sedimentation of watercourses as a management within the wider catchment associated with country houses is a strong result of soil erosion is an identified (woodland planting, wetland feature of the landscape. problem. The problem can be regulated restoration/creation) can significantly  Tranquillity: The area is an important through appropriate land management reduce this risk by increasing the land’s resource for tranquillity, with 85% of it practices. capacity to hold rainfall and by slowing its classed as ‘undisturbed’.  Regulating soil quality: Free‐draining soils flow into watercourses.  Recreation: Recreation and access are cover 44% of the NCA and play a valuable supported by the Ebor Way long distance role in groundwater recharge. This route, a network of footpaths and enhanced infiltration is achieved through

bridleways, and a small amount of open is climate change. The general long‐term two areas, to maximise the area covered access land. prediction is for hotter drier summers and by an ecosystem approach.  Biodiversity: There is 1 internationally warmer wetter winters, with more frequent designated site within the NCA, part of the and extreme weather events. Some of the OBJECTIVES – THE ECOSYSTEM APPROACH River Derwent Special Area of effects could include more frequent and severe Conservation (SAC) – 75 ha of which lies flooding of farmland, damage to archaeological Please see the Action Programme for details of within this NCA. There are 8 Sites of remains by soil erosion and weathering, loss of specific Actions for each Objective. Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in the NCA, fertile topsoil from fields, windblow of mature making up less than 1% (142 ha) of the trees, new species moving in, or extinction of ES1 Gain a better understanding of the area. These designated sites, and other existing species unable to move within the AONB’s contribution to ecosystem areas of priority habitat (such as ancient landscape. Both research information and services. woodlands), will be at the core of efforts practical observations will be important in to increase the resilience of native flora deciding how to manage these impacts. [For ES2 Promote sustainability and support and fauna to future environmental change. the period 2009‐2014 patterns of prolonged appropriate projects that benefit the There are 70 locally designated Sites of and extreme weather, e.g. snow/frost, AONB’s ecosystems services and Importance for Nature Conservation drought, cold easterly winds and heavy rainfall Special Qualities. (SINC). have been experienced].  Geodiversity: There are 3 geological SSSIs ES3 Understand potential climate change within the NCA. Kirkham Gorge is of Key Issues 2014 – 2019 trends and scenarios and monitor scientific importance as a renowned  Improvement in the understanding of the impacts on the AONB. example of a glacial overflow channel. ecosystem services that the AONB provides, the impact of management/ Many of the ecosystem services that the development decisions and the AONB provides are closely linked to the interactions with the AONB’s Special Special Qualities for which the area was Qualities. originally designated.  Observation of weather patterns, to assess possible long‐term implications and any Climate Change changes to the AONB. One over‐arching factor that has the potential  Partnership working with the North York to impact heavily on the Special Qualities of the Moors National Park, given the overlap of AONB, and the ecosystem services it provides, farmland types and habitats between the

2.3 A RICH HERITAGE

Photos

761ha of botanically much poorer semi‐  Both Ryedale and Hambleton Districts 2.3.1 NATURAL improved grassland. (7) have Local Biodiversity Action Plans  It also recorded 14.5ha of mire. Most of (LBAPs) in place, although they are both ENVIRONMENT this habitat type is found along streams due for review. and rivers, particularly near Coulton and in  The AONB contains: 1 Special Area for the Derwent Valley. Conservation (SAC); 8 Sites of Special

 85ha of open water was recorded, with the Scientific Interest (SSSI) (5 Biological, 3 Key Facts largest water bodies being the lakes at Geological); 70 Sites of Importance for  The AONB is a key area for a number of Castle Howard, Wiganthorpe, Newburgh Nature Conservation (SINC). nationally important Biodiversity Action Priory and Pond Head (Oulston) Reservoir.  The AONB is a Priority Area in the North Plan (BAP) Priority Habitats including  A survey of road verges in 1997 found Yorkshire & York Local Nature Partnership lowland broadleaved woodland, wood nearly 38ha of species‐rich grassland (NY&Y LNP) Strategy. pasture and veteran trees, limestone and habitat on 132 separate stretches of verge.  Further information and statistics can be neutral grasslands and fen meadows. (8) found in the Evidence Base.  Characteristic species include brown hare,  In 2013 there was 3,332ha of woodland in lapwing, tree sparrow and barn owl, as the AONB; 1,532ha was classified as General Principles well as several local rarities such as Ancient, with 163ha classified as Ancient  National Character Area (NCA) 29 knapweed broomrape and baneberry. Semi‐Natural. (9) Statement of Environmental Opportunity:  Nearly 80% of the habitats in the AONB are  In 2013 8% of the AONB’s rivers and Support sustainable management of the either farmland or are associated with streams and 50% of its groundwater agricultural landscape to retain important human settlement. BAP Priority Habitats bodies were classified as being in Good rates of food provision, while enhancing (which show the strongest semi‐natural Ecological Status. (10) the network of semi‐natural habitats characteristics) represent only 8% of the within pastoral and arable landscapes, total area of the AONB. (6) protecting the wildlife and water quality of  A habitat survey in 1992 recorded 362ha of the River Derwent, optimising carbon high quality neutral grassland, 11.5ha of (7) Southern Ryedale and Howardian Hills AONB Phase I storage, soil quality and regulation of peak unimproved calcareous grassland and Survey, A Weston, University of York/English Nature, flow events, and strengthening the sense 1992 (8) Howardian Hills AONB Roadside Verge and Hedgerow of place. (11) Survey, Bullen Consultants, Howardian Hills AONB Joint Advisory Committee, 1998 (9) Forestry Commission, 2013 (11) National Character Area 29 Profile: Howardian Hills, (6) Natural England, 2011 (10)Environment Agency, 2013 Natural England, 2012 23

 Biodiversity 2020 (BD2020) objectives for  The status of the AONB’s water bodies, as agri‐environment scheme, to maximise the AONB’s SSSIs, Priority Habitats and measured by the Environment Agency’s action for biodiversity in the AONB. Species should be promoted and delivered. Water Framework Directive (WFD)  The continued spread, and as yet unknown  The principle of bigger, better, more and indicators, should be improved. impact, of infectious plant diseases and joined‐up, as developed in Prof. Sir John  Awareness and understanding amongst non‐native plant/animal species. Lawton’s report (12), should be used to local people and visitors of how important guide habitat management action and the AONB is as a biodiversity and OBJECTIVES – NATURAL ENVIRONMENT create a more wildlife‐friendly matrix of geodiversity resource should be increased. habitats across the wider countryside,  Advice, assistance and (where appropriate) Please see the Action Programme for details of including within villages and gardens. grant aid should be provided to help land specific Actions for each Objective. For Actions  An Ecosystem Approach to delivery of managers improve biodiversity and relating to community involvement please see projects and consultation responses should geodiversity on their land. Objective LC2; for skills training see Objective be developed, in line with Biodiversity  The incidence of invasive non‐native D6; for promotion and raising awareness see 2020 Outcome 1C. species should be monitored and Objective AP2.  The North Yorkshire & York Local Nature management action taken where Partnership (NY&Y LNP) should be used as appropriate. NE1 Continually improve knowledge of the a forum to develop and deliver integrated wildlife resources in the AONB. projects both within the Howardian Hills Key Issues 2014 – 2019 and linking outwards.  The continued management of SINCs, as NE2 Ensure that appropriate protection is  Partnership working with the North York they form the AONB’s principal network of given to the best nature conservation Moors National Park should be important biodiversity sites. sites in the AONB. encouraged, given the overlap of farmland  The progression of river catchment‐based types and habitats between the AONB and partnerships, to provide an integrated NE3 Assist with the implementation of National Park. framework for action in delivering mutual LBAP/BD2020/WFD targets for priority  Knowledge about habitat and species objectives. habitats in the AONB (broadleaved status within the AONB, particularly for  How well the new agri‐environment woodland; grasslands; wetlands) to farmland birds, should be improved. scheme can improve the biodiversity value improve condition and increase of both important sites and the wider network connectivity. farmed landscape of the AONB. (12) Making Space for Nature: A review of England’s  The availability of other funding to NE4 Assist with the implementation of Wildlife Sites and Ecological Network, Prof. Sir John supplement/fill any gaps within the new LBAP/BD2020 targets for priority Lawton, Defra, 2010 24

species for which the AONB is important.

NE5 Assist with the implementation of LBAP/BD2020 targets for wildlife within villages.

NE6 Monitor and where appropriate support control of invasive non‐native species in the AONB.

NE7 Encourage the identification and conservation of important geodiversity sites and features in the AONB.

NE8 Provide assistance to farmers and land managers, to help them manage their land sympathetically.

NE9 Ensure continued recognition of the Howardian Hills as a priority area for biodiversity in North Yorkshire, as part of the NY&Y LNP.

Figure 4 (Natural Environment Priority Sites)

2.3.2 HISTORIC ENVIRONMENT  The monasteries were important consisting of both broadleaved Ancient landowners with widespread farms, so at Woodland and more recent conifer the time of the Dissolution in 1537 land plantations on former heathland. As

unploughed heathland that survived and building materials were sold cheaply. agricultural improvement, a wealth of Key Facts This enabled the rise of landed gentry whose big estates and country houses prehistoric burial mounds and other  A rich history of human activity is evident features are now preserved within the in the Howardian Hills, from Mesolithic flint form arguably the most visible theme of scatters to Roman bath houses to medieval the Howardian Hills today. Estates and plantations. monasteries to railways. The area has good grand houses at Castle Howard, Gilling,  The history of religious and private Estates soils for farming, with the geology and Hovingham, Howsham, Nunnington, in the Howardian Hills has resulted in a extensive woodlands providing stone and Brandsby, Kirkham, Whitwell, High Hutton, large stock of traditional stone‐and‐pantile timber for building. The area’s proximity to Ganthorpe, Swinton, Hildenley, farmhouses, farm buildings, cottages and Malton with its fort means that some of Wiganthorpe, Dalby and Sproxton are all village houses, many of them in ‘estate the Roman remains are likely to be from still recognisable to a greater or lesser villages’. villas or farming communities. These extent today.  As well as the physical remains there are would have provided food and other  The complex geology allowed only small‐ also the cultural traditions that have goods, such as pottery from Crambeck, to scale operations of extractive industries developed over the centuries. Traditional the fort. such as stone quarrying, coal mining, lime values associated with a long history of  A strong theme of the Howardian Hills is burning (for building mortar and land religious activity and farming are still the scatter of nucleated medieval villages, improvement), brick and tile making and strong. which place name evidence shows pottery manufacture. The Derwent is the  An archaeological survey of the AONB was originated in the Saxon and Scandinavian only navigable river in the AONB and carried out in 1993 and a Historic periods. The Saxon minster at Stonegrave provided limited use for transport of goods Landscape Characterisation survey was and the open strip fields of ridge and owing to poor access. Three railways completed in 2011. A community furrow still visible at Crambe are some of served the area, with only the York to archaeology group working on Yearsley the best preserved remains. Scarborough line now remaining open. Moor have demonstrated the wealth of  Monastic orders were drawn to the area,  Agricultural improvement changed the features from all periods that can be found with monasteries established at Kirkham landscape significantly, with the old when focus is tightly concentrated on a and Newburgh. The tradition continues common fields enclosed and the land specific area. today with Ampleforth Abbey. improved for the production of sheep and  The AONB contains: 373 Listed Buildings; crops. Woodland is still important, 11 Conservation Areas; 79 Scheduled

Monuments. The 5 Registered Historic history, and protecting natural resources.  Conservation/management plans should Parks and Gardens comprise 11% of all (14) be prepared for all designed landscapes, to North Yorkshire’s registered parks (outside  Community groups and other researchers help develop a better understanding and the two National Parks), demonstrating should be supported in discovering and appreciation of their significance and to how important they are to the character of understanding the heritage of the AONB, guide their future management. the AONB. and feeding the results into the North  The 2013 English Heritage ‘Heritage at Risk Yorkshire Historic Environment Record Key Issues 2014 – 2019 Register’ identified the following nationally (HER).  The unpredictable availability of resources significant assets as being At Risk in the  All nationally important heritage assets in for historic environment conservation AONB: 4 Listed Buildings, 27 Scheduled the AONB should be appropriately work, from both the public and private Monuments and the Registered Historic conserved and enhanced. sectors, particularly with the ending of the Park and Garden at Castle Howard (13). A  The significance of all aspects of the Environmental Stewardship Scheme. further 10 Grade II Listed Buildings at Risk historic environment should have a high  Small but incremental changes to heritage are recorded on District Council registers. profile amongst residents, land managers assets, due to amendments to Permitted  Further information and statistics can be and visitors, to ensure that it is respected. Development Rights and potentially fewer found in the Evidence Base.  Advice, assistance and (where appropriate) resources for Planning Enforcement work. grant aid should be provided to help  The condition of sites on English Heritage’s General Principles owners recognise and better manage ‘Heritage at Risk Register’, particularly  National Character Area (NCA) 29 historic environment features on their Scheduled Monuments affected by arable Statement of Environmental Opportunity: land. cultivation or damaging plant growth, the Protect the geological and historic  Designated Heritage Assets on English Registered Park & Garden at Castle landscape features that are characteristic Heritage’s ‘Heritage at Risk Register’ Howard and the Grade I Listed structures of the area, including its distinct landform, should be priorities for management at Castle Howard. Proposals for Enabling prehistoric earthworks, medieval action, to ultimately ensure that no Assets Development may come forward to monasteries, grand houses with designed appear on the Register and that a address the latter issue. parkland, and settlement pattern. Manage sustainable future has been secured for all  The condition of non‐designated sites, these features to provide diverse public designated and non‐designated heritage particularly designed landscapes not on benefits, enhancing the sense of place and assets in the AONB. the English Heritage Register.  The length of time since the last comprehensive survey of archaeology in (14) National Character Area 29 Profile: Howardian Hills, the AONB in 1993. Current data sources (13) English Heritage, 2013 Natural England, 2012 28

need to be thoroughly assessed, to draw out themes where there is a lack of knowledge and where they contribute to the overall understanding of history and significance in the Howardian Hills.

OBJECTIVES – HISTORIC ENVIRONMENT

Please see the Action Programme for details of specific Actions for each Objective. For Actions relating to community involvement please see Objective LC2; for skills training see Objective D6; for promotion and raising awareness see Objective AP2.

HE1 Improve understanding of the AONB’s historic environment and its significance.

HE2 Sustain and enhance the significance of the AONB’s historic environment.

HE3 Help local people to identify the non‐ designated heritage assets which contribute to the character of their area and support the development of management strategies for their conservation and enhancement.

Figure 5 (Historic Environment Priority Sites)

2.4 LIVING AND WORKING IN THE HOWARDIAN HILLS

Photos

2.4.1 LOCAL COMMUNITIES Yorkshire & Humber region (33.5%) and substantial improvements recently to England as a whole (34.3%). (16) make them more useable and sustainable.  The percentage of people aged 65‐84  The LEADER Local Action Group and AONB (20%) is higher than for the Yorkshire & Sustainable Development Fund have been Key Facts Humber region (14.4%) and England as a significant sources of funding for these  The Howardian Hills is sparsely populated, whole (14.1%). projects. with approximately 6,100 people living  The market towns of Easingwold, Malton  Significant programmes of education work within the AONB boundary itself, and and Helmsley provide the main focus for have been completed with the 10 primary 9,400 when the villages within its ‘socio‐ local employment, shopping, health schools covering the AONB. economic envelope’ immediately adjacent facilities and recreational activity, with  The Key Facts on employment and the are included. (15) only limited services available in individual economy of the AONB are contained in the  The majority of the population is villages. Development & Rural Economy section of concentrated within a number of small  The main issues that emerge from the Management Plan. villages and hamlets. Ampleforth (including community consultations are volume of  Further information and statistics can also the Abbey and College) is the largest traffic (particularly HCVs), speeding traffic, be found in the Evidence Base. village, with 1,400 residents. Only four declining services within villages, housing other villages contain more than 500 (lack of affordable, but also new Local Plan General Principles people. The scattering of villages is targets for house building), lack of local  The AONB should have flexible and interspersed with numerous individual employment and lack of public transport. resilient communities that are better farms. There is also recognition however of the placed to adapt to the evolving challenges  Many villages are ‘estate villages’, where tranquillity and natural beauty of the they face. the principal estates still own a significant AONB.  Knowledge‐sharing should be encouraged, proportion of the properties (e.g.  The number of communities with Parish to help communities to develop and Coneysthorpe, Welburn, Hovingham and Plans has significantly increased in the last potentially collaborate on projects. Nunnington). 5 years, as has the number of community  Parish Planning should be supported as a  The percentage of people aged 20‐44 projects that have been instigated as a useful way of developing projects that (21.2%) is significantly lower than for the result of them. have buy‐in from all sections of the  At least 35% of the village halls serving community. AONB communities have undergone  Advice, assistance and (where appropriate) grant aid should be provided for appropriate community projects. (15) Mid‐Year Estimates for 2010; ONS; Crown Copyright (16) Census 2011, ONS, Crown Copyright 32

 The continued coverage of the AONB by  Levels of rural crime such as illegal initiatives such as LEADER should be a high coursing and the theft of farm machinery, priority, as they can provide significant livestock, heating oil, etc. social and economic benefits for  Perceptions of the volume and speed of communities. traffic passing through villages.  The linkages between the local market  Less public sector support and funding for towns and their hinterland in the AONB community projects, with fewer should be developed, to maximise the ‘development officers’ and less grant aid. social and economic development  In light of the above, the continued opportunities they bring. coverage of the AONB by a new LEADER programme for rural development. Key Issues 2014 – 2019  An ageing population profile, potentially OBJECTIVES – LOCAL COMMUNITIES resulting in fewer economically active people. Please see the Action Programme for details of  Service provision linked to the ageing specific Actions for each Objective. For Actions population profile, with potentially greater relating to skills training please see Objective reliance on services being delivered by D6; for promotion and raising awareness see communities themselves rather than by Objective AP2. the public sector.  The increasing importance of LC1 Assist local communities with environmental sustainability as a way of identifying and implementing projects reducing living costs, for example by that maintain and enhance their energy conservation and waste reduction. character, sustainability and sense of  The potential loss of rural skills. community.  The possible loss of identity and community cohesion for some rural LC2 Encourage voluntary and community communities, due to the turnover rate of engagement with the local natural and house occupation. historic environment of the AONB.

2.4.2 AGRICULTURE  Farming in the AONB consists overwhelmingly of arable cropping, with General Principles associated sheep and cattle enterprises.  National Character Area (NCA) 29 Indoor pig rearing is increasing and there Statement of Environmental Opportunity: Key Facts are a small number of poultry farms. Dairy Support sustainable management of the  Around 70% of the AONB is categorised as farming is continuing to decline. (17) agricultural landscape to retain important farmland and agricultural practices  Agri‐environment schemes have generally rates of food provision, while enhancing therefore have a major influence on the been popular in the AONB, with the the network of semi‐natural habitats appearance of the landscape. Countryside Stewardship Scheme resulting within pastoral and arable landscapes,  Farming is a major industry and in significant restoration of hedgerows and protecting the wildlife and water quality of employment sector within the AONB, and creation of large areas of grass margins. At the River Derwent, optimising carbon many families have been farming their its height, approximately 45% of the total storage, soil quality and regulation of peak land for several generations. AONB area was covered by Countryside flow events, and strengthening the sense of place. (19)  Around 30% of the farmed land is rented, Stewardship Agreements. principally from the large Estates, and this  In 2013, 55% of the agricultural land area  A profitable and thriving agricultural and has a generally stabilising effect on major of the AONB was in Entry Level land management industry should be land use change. Stewardship and 20% in Entry Level + encouraged, as this is vital to the economic, environmental and social  During the period of agricultural Higher Level Stewardship. In total these wellbeing of the Howardian Hills. intensification after World War Two a agreements, over their 10 year lifespans,

significant proportion of the grassland in will be worth over £7 million to the land  Farm diversification enterprises should be the AONB was converted to arable management economy of the AONB. (18) supported where possible, although in cropping. Hedgerow removal was  Farm diversification enterprises within the general they are likely to remain secondary significant in some parts of the AONB but AONB include visitor accommodation (B&B to the production of livestock and arable less marked in others. or self‐catering), contracting, development crops for many of the AONB’s farmers.  The land is predominantly classed as Grade of offices/workshops, specialist  The new agri‐environment scheme in 3, with some areas of Grade 2 along the cropping/livestock, game shooting and Defra’s next Rural Development Plan limestone ridge between Malton and energy crop production. should address the farmland conservation Hovingham. Permanent pasture is now  Further information and statistics can be management issues in the AONB, largely confined to the steeper slopes and found in the Evidence Base. particularly in relation to Biodiversity poorer soils. (17) Defra June Census statistics, 2011 (19) National Character Area 29 Profile: Howardian Hills, (18) Natural England, 2013 Natural England, 2012 34

Action Plan (BAP) Priority Habitats and measures (including the new agri‐ AG2 Support farm businesses in the AONB Species. environment scheme being developed). by providing advice and appropriate  Advice should be available to land  The Environmental Stewardship Scheme assistance. managers on conservation management closes to new entrants in December 2014 and sources of funding, particularly the and no agreements under the new AG3 Ensure high standards of design and new agri‐environment scheme. programme will start until January 2016. careful siting of all new farm buildings  Grant assistance should be provided for This will have implications for landscape/ and infrastructure. conservation management tasks, where wildlife conservation and farming cash‐ appropriate. flow in the AONB.  Partnership working with the North York  The area coverage of the new agri‐ Moors National Park should be environment scheme is predicted to be encouraged, given the overlap of farmland much lower than for the expiring types and habitats between the AONB and Environmental Stewardship Scheme. This National Park. again will have implications for landscape/  New farm buildings and infrastructure wildlife conservation and farming cash‐ projects should be supported, where they flow. follow the principles of the AONB Farm Buildings Design Guidance. OBJECTIVES – AGRICULTURE

Key Issues 2014 – 2019 Please see the Action Programme for details of  Continued volatility in the relative prices of specific Actions for each Objective. For Actions inputs and crops. relating to community involvement please see  Greater pressure on land due to an Objective LC2; for skills training see Objective increasing world population – food D6; for promotion and raising awareness see provision is an important ecosystem Objective AP2. service provided by the AONB. AG1 Encourage the development and  The final details of the EU Common uptake of Government support Agricultural Policy (CAP) reforms, in mechanisms that achieve sustainable particular the balance between direct farm and rural business development. support payments and rural development

2.4.3 FORESTRY & WOODLAND  Clearfelling rates are approximately 10‐ retain the well‐wooded appearance of the 20ha per year. AONB landscape.  Approximately 60% of the woodland in the  A move towards greater use of continuous AONB is certified under the UK Woodland cover management systems should be Key Facts Assurance Scheme (UKWAS). encouraged, where conditions are suitable.  Woodland cover, at approximately 18%, is  The primary woodland management  Multi‐objective management of woodland one of the defining features of the objectives are generally timber/wood should be encouraged, using site Howardian Hills landscape. production and game shooting. management plans to recognise and  46% of the woodland is classified as  The local market for broadleaved firewood incorporate other conservation objectives Ancient Woodland. (20) logs is good and has encouraged more e.g. historic environment, access, etc.  There are also significant numbers of in‐ management activity within woods  The incidence and impact of pests and field and boundary trees, designed recently. diseases should be monitored, particularly parklands and areas of wood pasture, with  70% of the woodland in the AONB is in in relation to native tree species and many veteran and ancient trees. active management. (21) Ancient Woodland.  The AONB, together with the adjoining  Further information and statistics can be  The restoration of Plantations on Ancient south west corner of the North York Moors found in the Evidence Base. Woodland Sites (PAWS) to native National Park, is the most heavily wooded broadleaved species should be encouraged area in the north of England. General Principles and supported.  In 2013, it was estimated that the AONB’s  National Character Area (NCA) 29  Owners should be encouraged to bring soils and biomass had a store of Statement of Environmental Opportunity: under‐managed woods back into active approximately 1.3 million tonnes of Manage the wooded character of the NCA management. carbon, and that its land use pattern was and its important historic parklands to  Restocking by natural regeneration should sequestering at a rate of approximately optimise carbon storage, water quality and be encouraged, where this would be 85,000 tonnes of carbon per year. The regulation of peak flow events, and to appropriate and viable. large majority of this is due to the strengthen habitat networks, enhancing  The use of known provenance planting significant area of woodland. the sense of place and history. (22) stock should be promoted in commercial  80% of woodland is in private ownership,  Woodland cover should be maintained woodlands, with local provenance material with the remaining 20% owned/leased by and, where possible, increased, so as to in Ancient Woodlands and for in‐field/ the Forestry Commission. boundary trees. (21) Forestry Commission, 2013  Development of the local woodfuel market (22) National Character Area 29 Profile: Howardian Hills, should be supported. (20) Forestry Commission, 2013 Natural England, 2012 36

 The new woodland grants package in widespread infection would have FW2 Encourage a multi‐objective approach Defra’s next Rural Development Plan significant implications for the AONB’s to woodland management in the should address the management issues landscape, biodiversity and woodland AONB. found in the AONB, particularly in relation management economy. to restoration of Plantations on Ancient  The impact of other infectious plant FW3 Monitor and manage the incidence and Woodland Sites (PAWS). diseases and both native and non‐native impacts of pests and diseases in the  Advice should be available to owners on plant/animal species, e.g. Red Band Needle AONB. woodland management and sources of Blight, roe deer, Himalayan balsam, grey funding. squirrel, muntjac deer, etc. FW4 Encourage the use of known provenance  Grant assistance should be provided for  Uncertainty over future grant incentives trees and shrubs when planting or re‐ conservation management tasks, where for woodland management in Defra’s new stocking. appropriate. Rural Development Programme due to  Partnership working with the North York begin in 2015/16. FW5 Encourage new areas of woodland Moors National Park should be where these would conserve or encouraged, given the national significance OBJECTIVES – FORESTRY & WOODLAND enhance the Special Qualities of the of woodland within the AONB/National AONB or improve habitat networks. Park area. Please see the Action Programme for details of specific Actions for each Objective. For Actions FW6 Encourage the continued development of Key Issues 2014 – 2019 relating to community involvement please see markets for wood and timber.

 The unknown impact of Chalara fraxinea Objective LC2; for skills training see Objective FW7 Encourage the development of grant (Ash Dieback) on woodland and individual D6; for promotion and raising awareness see and advice mechanisms that achieve trees in the AONB, and its potential Objective AP2. AONB Management Plan objectives for implications for woodland management, woodland management and creation. landscape and biodiversity. FW1 Ensure that all woodland felling,

 The unknown timescale for any arrival of management and creation proposals

Phytopthora ramorum (Sudden Oak Death) recognise the Special Qualities of the in the AONB. Larch species currently AONB. appear to be the most susceptible –

Figure 6: Distribution and type of woodland

2.4.4 DEVELOPMENT & THE RURAL  42% of the businesses within the AONB are Deprived category in that section of the ECONOMY in the category Agriculture/Forestry/ Index of Multiple Deprivation. (25) Fishing, and they account for 24% of the  The AONB in general has not been under as employment numbers. This is over twice much development pressure as some other the proportion for the Rural area of the AONBs, but existing and emerging issues Key Facts Yorkshire & Humber region (10%). (24) include large new agricultural buildings,  The primary focus of local economic  Tourism businesses account for 8% of the hydro‐carbon exploration drilling, more activity is the market towns of Malton, total number of businesses in the AONB, extensive housing developments than in Easingwold and Helmsley, all of which are and 22% of the employment numbers. the past, upgrading of the A64, new in close proximity but outside the AONB. Again, this is nearly twice the proportion telecommunications infrastructure and They act as the main centres for for the Rural area of the Yorkshire & recreational developments. employment, shopping, leisure and health Humber region (12%). (23)  Further information and statistics can be found services.  Over half of the total employee numbers in in the Evidence Base.  The AONB has a ‘Sparse’ population living the AONB are believed to be associated in Villages and Hamlets/Isolated Dwellings, with a small number of relatively large General Principles as defined by Defra’s Rural Definition 2004. businesses, e.g. Castle Howard, Ampleforth  All new development should be fully (23) Abbey & College, etc. (23) sustainable in environmental, economic  There is a low unemployment rate but also  Household income levels within the AONB and social terms, recognising the Special a low‐wage economy. Most people work are generally higher than the regional Qualities of the AONB. within the general locality, with out‐ average (23), but mask low wage levels in  Existing intrusive features should be commuting also to employment centres the general locality and amongst some ameliorated where possible, such as the such as the local market towns and York. sectors of the workforce (notably in the undergrounding of overhead electricity  There are high self‐employment and VAT primary industries). lines and better screening for other Registration rates, which is typical of  The housing affordability ratio in the AONB buildings/installations. sparsely populated rural areas that are is 8.8, significantly higher that the Yorkshire  High levels of tranquillity should be dependent upon agriculture, forestry and & Humber regional average of 5.0. (23) maintained in the AONB, by resisting tourism.  Accessibility to services is very low, with the increases in noise and light pollution. whole of the AONB falling into the Most  Mineral extraction in the AONB should be (23) http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/2011021 tightly controlled, in line with Government 5111010/http://ons.gov.uk/about‐ statistics/geography/products/area‐classifications/rural‐ (24) Howardian Hills AONB Economic Profile – Revised, (25) LEADER Local Development Strategy: urban‐definition‐and‐la‐classification/index.html Defra Rural Statistics Unit, 2012 http://www.moors.uk.net/content.php?nID=698

policy. Exceptions may be made where it  The current programme to roll‐out high‐  The lack of affordable and local‐needs can be shown that a local building stone is speed broadband will be supported as a housing for local workers. needed to facilitate the repair of buildings vital component of business and  The pressure for significant developments and structures in the local area. community development, where of market housing, and the dilemma that  Enhancements to the A64 to improve installations follow the agreed industry affordable housing may only be provided accessibility both locally and regionally Code of Practice. in conjunction with market housing. should be supported, subject to minimising  New telecommunications masts will be  The potential decline of villages as impact on the AONB. supported where they are carefully coherent communities in the face of  Appropriate renewable energy sited/designed and offer benefits to the conflicting pressures such as expensive installations should be supported. widest number of users. market housing, poorer village and  Development proposals that benefit the  Local‐needs housing (controlled via local transport services and the lack of local‐ local economy and provide nearby needs occupancy conditions) should be needs housing. employment (particularly in better paid promoted as an important component of  Hydro‐carbon exploration/production, jobs) should be supported. sustainable communities. Affordable particularly for gas, petroleum and possibly  More small‐scale rural business space housing however is only likely to be shale‐gas. should be provided, either by the re‐use of facilitated through the limited provision of existing buildings or by appropriate new‐ market housing. OBJECTIVES – DEVELOPMENT & THE RURAL build. ECONOMY  The visitor economy of the AONB should Key Issues 2014 – 2019 be developed in a sustainable way, as part  The balance between economic growth Please see the Action Programme for details of of the wider North York Moors area, and conserving/enhancing the AONB’s specific Actions for each Objective. For Actions particularly using initiatives such as the Special Qualities, within the context of an relating to community involvement please see LEADER approach. evolving planning policy framework. Objective LC2; for promotion and raising  Access to/training in a wide variety of  The continuing development of a high‐ awareness see Objective AP2. topics including land management, historic speed rural broadband service and mobile buildings conservation, business telecommunications coverage. D1 Ensure that any new development is management and ICT skills should be  The development of a sustainable visitor compatible with the aims of AONB supported, to provide local people with economy in the Howardian Hills. designation and has regard to social, better all‐round opportunities for  The provision of new rural business space. economic and environmental employment.  Improvement of the A64 to enhance road sustainability. safety and accessibility.

D2 Encourage high standards in both the D8 Encourage the increased provision of design of new development within the local‐needs/ affordable housing in the AONB and the management of existing AONB. buildings/features.

D3 Encourage the mitigation of intrusive features, to enhance the local landscape character and tranquillity of the AONB.

D4 Support appropriate minerals‐working proposals which conserve and enhance the Special Qualities of the AONB.

D5 Support appropriate renewable energy installations that do not have adverse impacts on the Special Qualities of the AONB.

D6 Support rural business, local employment/training and farm diversification activities that do not have adverse impacts on the Special Qualities of the AONB.

D7 Encourage the expansion of modern telecommunications technology, whilst safeguarding the Special Qualities and tranquillity of the AONB.

2.4.5 ROADS, TRANSPORT AND open ground of the Plateau landscape parts of the country, but local residents TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT character area. have strong concerns about through‐traffic  Mature trees are features of major (especially HCVs) and driver behaviour significance on many roads, including the (principally speeding). sycamore avenue between Caulkleys Bank  Regular daily bus services within the AONB Key Facts and Nunnington, the four mile (6.4km) are only found in the Malton – Helmsley  The network of roads in the Howardian avenue of lime and beech at Castle corridor, and car ownership levels are Hills has evolved over many centuries, in Howard and the informal oak‐lined eastern significantly higher (over 90%) than the line with the distribution of human approach to Terrington. national average (75%) (27). settlement and the requirements of the  Some routes, particularly the Castle  Service Centre Transportation Strategies population. Howard Avenue, have significant heritage (SCTSs) were prepared for Helmsley,  The busy A64 Leeds to Scarborough Trunk assets either within or directly adjacent to Malton/Norton and Easingwold as part of Road (managed by the Highways Agency) the highway boundary. the second North Yorkshire Local is the only major arterial route that passes  The AONB still retains a significant number Transport Plan (2006‐2011). through the AONB. It plays an important of highway structures in traditional designs Implementation of transport role in getting people between West such as stone bridges, direction signs and improvements identified in these Yorkshire, York and the Yorkshire coast, as mileposts. strategies is on‐going. well as meeting local transport needs.  Road verges within the AONB are an  Car parking in the AONB is generally of an  Two secondary routes cross the area: the important resource of unimproved informal nature on road verges near to B1257 from Malton to the A170 at grassland, particularly along the B1257 popular walking routes, apart from the Sproxton and the section of the B1363 between Malton and Hovingham. larger car parks at attractions such as between Oswaldkirk and Brandsby.  Traffic levels in North Yorkshire as a whole Nunnington Hall and Castle Howard.  The remainder of the road network decreased by 3% between 2009 and 2012  There is a strong local desire for consists of minor roads either linking (26), but a number of factors could be improvements to the A64. Single villages or crossing the AONB in a north‐ responsible for this including prolonged carriageway sections have a poor safety south direction. All the roads of B Class or snowy winters, poor summer weather and record and significant variations in road lower in the AONB are managed by North the recession. conditions and traffic flows can cause Yorkshire County Council.  The road network could generally be congestion at busy times of the year. The  Roadside boundaries are generally well‐ considered quiet in comparison to other hedged, with drystone walls on the higher

(26) North Yorkshire County Council, 2013 (27) Census 2011, ONS, Crown Copyright 42

A64 also has a number of sub‐standard adjacent to the highway should continue and beyond. The prioritised schemes will junctions with a history of accidents. to be maintained and restored. aim to improve road safety, journey time  Further information and statistics can be found  Special Interest Road Verges should be reliability and access to Ryedale/the in the Evidence Base. managed to maintain and improve their Yorkshire Coast. biodiversity value, balanced with the needs General Principles of road safety. OBJECTIVES – ROADS, TRANSPORT & TRAFFIC  Inappropriate through‐traffic should not  Any proposals for improvement works to MANAGEMENT be using the AONB as a short‐cut. the A64 should take full account of the  Considerate driver behaviour should be AONB designation. Please see the Action Programme for details of encouraged, particularly in relation to specific Actions for each Objective. For Actions speeding through villages and when Key Issues 2014 – 2019 relating to community involvement please see passing cyclists, horse riders, etc.  Reduced funding at North Yorkshire Objective LC2; for skills training see Objective  Public transport provision and usage County Council for highways management D6; for promotion and raising awareness see should be encouraged, but recognising and public transport support. Objective AP2. that the AONB is a sparsely populated rural  Reduced funding for community transport area and that public sector funding will be initiatives such as minibus brokerage and RT1 Develop solutions to specific traffic under increasing pressure. ‘Wheels to Work’ moped hire schemes. routing issues in and around the AONB,  Alternatives to the private car such as  Funding is likely to be concentrated on the to discourage through‐traffic and community transport, cycling, walking, etc, maintenance of the highway network ensure that other traffic uses the most should be supported. rather than improvements, unless appropriate route.  Sustainable linkages should be encouraged significant road safety issues are involved. both to and within the adjacent market  Significant new house building outside the RT2 Support initiatives to monitor and towns, as they are the principal focus for AONB may increase both commuter and address traffic and driver behaviour delivering local services. visitor traffic levels. issues in the AONB.  Maintenance and improvement works  The Highways Agency will be preparing a should reflect the character of the rural Route‐Based Strategy for the A64, due to RT3 Promote the use of sustainable modes road network and the special status of the be completed by March 2015. North of transport as alternatives to the AONB. Yorkshire and Ryedale Councils are private car.

 Traditional direction signs, mileposts and working with other Councils to promote a other historic structures within and number of enhancements to the A64 between York and Scarborough up to 2021

RT4 Maintain the existing rural character of the road network in the AONB.

RT5 Ensure that any proposals for improvement of the A64 trunk road through the AONB are fully justified and adopt appropriate local standards of design. Taking account of significant safety concerns, proposals should aim to make maximum use of the existing road alignment and have minimum environmental impact.

2.5 ENJOYING THE AONB

Photos

2.5.1 RECREATION, ACCESS &  Visitors and Users Surveys indicate that that will maintain and enhance the AONB’s people are attracted by the unspoilt Special Qualities and character, and its

TOURISM landscape, the peace and tranquillity and tranquillity, and that will support the the sense of ‘discovery’ of a relatively essential underpinning ecosystem services,

unknown area of England. (28) the quality of soils and water, and carbon

 Because the Howardian Hills has not storage. (29) Key Facts historically been a major visitor destination  The primary Purpose of Designation is the  A wide range of outdoor recreational there is a relative lack of facilities. There conservation and enhancement of the activities including walking, horse riding, are no formal country parks or picnic sites, AONB’s Special Qualities, but sustainable mountain biking, country sports, road‐ car parking facilities are limited and toilets access and recreational activities/ cycle racing and touring, motorcycle are only located at the village pubs/cafes, developments should be supported where scrambling and orienteering are conducted village halls or larger visitor attractions. appropriate. in the AONB. Activity is generally  Visitor accommodation is available in  Public Rights of Way should be managed to adequately dispersed or at low frequency, village hotels/pubs and in farmhouse bed‐ a high standard, maintaining both path so serious or prolonged impact is rare. and‐breakfasts. There are a number of furniture and condition to ensure ease of  The area is rich in heritage and the five small farm‐based caravan sites, together use. main historic houses open to the public with several larger sites for camping and  The Public Rights of Way network should attract large numbers of visitors – Castle both static and touring caravans. More up‐ be improved where appropriate, using Howard, Nunnington Hall, Kirkham Priory, market facilities such as camping pods are Diversions, Creations/Deletions and Hovingham Hall and Newburgh Priory. starting to be developed. permissive routes to develop a more  The AONB has an extensive network of  Further information and statistics can be coherent and universal network. Public Rights of Way, with 126 miles found in the Evidence Base.  All sectors of society should be able to (203km) of footpaths and 57 miles (92km) enjoy the AONB, so constraints preventing of bridleways. General Principles Under‐Represented Groups from visiting or  Several Long Distance walks cross the area,  National Character Area (NCA) 29 using the area should be reduced as much giving opportunities for longer walking Statement of Environmental Opportunity: as possible. trips. Promote enhanced access to and  Information in a variety of formats should  A comprehensive programme of enjoyment of the Howardian Hills in ways be provided for a wide range of users, to improvements to path furniture throughout the AONB was carried out (28) The Howardian Hills AONB Visitors and Users between 2000 and 2006, and maintenance Surveys, Bowles Green Ltd, Howardian Hills AONB Joint (29) National Character Area 29 Profile: Howardian Hills, is on‐going. Advisory Committee, 2003 & 2012 Natural England, 2012 46

allow them to enjoy and appreciate the for recording all Public Rights of Way on RA1 Encourage sustainable recreational AONB. the Definitive Map. activities that do not conflict with the  Working in partnership to promote the  Diminishing resources at North Yorkshire Special Qualities of the AONB. attractions of the wider North York Moors County Council for path maintenance and area should be strengthened, ensuring network development. RA2 Promote the attractions and Special however that the Howardian Hills sub‐  The need to develop better links to the Qualities of the AONB to encourage identity is maintained and enhanced. Howardian Hills for visitors staying in the sustainable use and support the local  Partnerships with local visitor attractions, wider local area, and to improve the visitor economy. accommodation providers and other public identity of the Howardian Hills as a sector organisations should be further separate ‘destination sub‐brand’. RA3 Maintain and improve both the developed, to promote the Howardian Hills  The relative scarcity of B&B, camping and condition and network of Public Rights identity. other visitor accommodation within the of Way in the AONB.  Management work should be carried out Howardian Hills, and the lack of general where appropriate to improve the visitor facilities such as car parking and public RA4 Carry out recreational management experience and minimise conflict with toilets. measures as appropriate, to enhance other Management Plan Objectives or local enjoyment by the public and address interests. The Derwent Valley however is a OBJECTIVES – RECREATION, ACCESS & local issues. particularly sensitive location due to its TOURISM international nature conservation RA5 Develop routes within the AONB for designations. Please see the Action Programme for details of different user groups and provide self‐  Access to recreational opportunities using specific Actions for each Objective. For Actions guided information. public transport or other low‐impact relating to community involvement please see means of travel should be promoted. Objective LC2; for skills training see Objective D6; for promotion and raising awareness see Key Issues 2014 – 2019 Objective AP2.  The need for improvements to the Public Rights of Way network and path condition, to make the AONB more accessible for a wider range of users.  The significance of the next 5 year period in the run‐up to the 2026 cut‐off deadline

Figure 7 (Visitor attractions and Recreation Priority Sites)

2.6 AWARENESS AND  On average the AONB and work within it Key Issues 2014 – 2019 receives approximately 30‐35 press  The decline in more traditional forms of

PROMOTION mentions per year, equivalent to £40k‐50k promotional material and the need to

of advertising space (dependent upon develop information distribution tools for

publication title). new audiences. Key Facts  Reduced resources for ‘promotional’ work, General Principles  The Howardian Hills AONB is still a potentially leading to a loss of awareness  relatively recent designation, having been The public profile of the Howardian Hills about the AONB and hence recreational confirmed in 1987. In comparison the AONB should be maintained and opportunities. adjacent and better‐known North York enhanced, using a variety of mechanisms Moors National Park was designated in and partnerships. OBJECTIVES – AWARENESS & PROMOTION 1952.  New technologies and means of Please see the Action Programme for details of  The principal audiences for awareness‐ communication should be adopted where specific Actions for each Objective. For Actions raising initiatives are local people living feasible, bearing in mind any limitations relating to community involvement please see and working in the AONB, visitors (and (e.g. poor mobile telecommunications Objective LC2; for skills training see Objective potential visitors) to the AONB and staff in coverage, target audience, etc). D6. partner organisations.  Efforts should be made to encourage more

 In 2003 23% of survey respondents could users from currently Under‐Represented AP1 Maintain awareness and understanding specifically say that they were in the Groups to visit and enjoy the AONB. of the AONB designation, its Howardian Hills AONB; in 2012 this  Awareness of the AONB as a venue for importance and the role of the Joint proportion had risen to 68%. (30) quiet enjoyment and outdoor recreation Advisory Committee.  Press releases and publications such as the should be increased.

Annual Report and AONB Newsletter  Events and activities should be used to AP2 Promote awareness of the Special (which is delivered to 9,000 residential and make people aware of the AONB’s Special Qualities of the AONB. business addresses within the AONB and Qualities and to promote appropriate

surrounding area) are the principal management techniques. methods of publicity used.  Working with local schools and communities should continue to be a high priority. (30) The Howardian Hills AONB Visitors and Users Surveys, Bowles Green Ltd, Howardian Hills AONB Joint Advisory Committee, 2003 & 2012 49

3.1 PUTTING THE PLAN INTO many organisations, groups and individuals Key Issues 2014 – 2019 ACTION already active in managing the area.  Declining funding from central Government  A number of sources of grant aid and advice and local authorities. are already available for countryside  A possible reduction in the ‘core staff’ management, farm diversification, business resource of the AONB Unit. Co‐ordination of effort development, community planning and  Pressure to deliver outcomes in both current  The main purpose of the Joint Advisory action, etc. The AONB Management Plan is activity areas and also in new ones, e.g. Committee (JAC) is to focus attention on the the ‘ground‐level’ plan that helps guide health & wellbeing. needs of the AONB and to co‐ordinate the implementation of local and national efforts of local authorities and organisations strategies and funding programmes within OBJECTIVES – IMPLEMENTATION representing various interests. the Howardian Hills AONB.  Although the AONB Unit has a pivotal role to  Maintaining an adequately‐staffed AONB Unit Please see the Action Programme for details of play in co‐ordinating the implementation of is important in ensuring that this co‐ specific Actions for each Objective. the Management Plan, it would be ordination of effort takes place and that inappropriate and impossible for it to directly appropriate partnerships are developed. IM1 Consolidate and develop funding and implement all the Objectives.  A key task of the AONB Unit is to identify partnership mechanisms to achieve  The co‐ordinated delivery of action by individual or linked programmes of projects Management Plan objectives. partner organisations and individuals is the and lever‐in funding or assistance from the key to success. most appropriate source. IM2 Ensure that the AONB partnership has a  The JAC draws up an annual Action  Forms of assistance can include grant robust business model that is resilient Programme each financial year to guide funding, staff assistance or ‘secondments’ for to future challenges. specific actions within that year. Progress specific projects or tasks, volunteering against this is reported at the March meeting mechanisms, technical advice and in‐kind contributions. of the JAC, with new actions being set for the following year.  The Howardian Hills AONB borders the North York Moors National Park and there are Resources significant further opportunities for both  Many of the proposals set out in the joint‐working and cross‐boundary initiatives. Management Plan will be achieved by influencing the efforts and resources of the

3.2 MONITORING are several local Indicators for which data England, they provide consistent data in a is gathered by the AONB Unit – volunteers clear format. could also be used to assist in this process. The effectiveness of the Action Programme  Significantly more data is now available Management Plan Review will be carefully monitored. Reliable and than in previous years, cut more closely to  Section 89(7) of the Countryside & Rights accurate performance information is essential the AONB boundaries. This will therefore of Way (CRoW) Act 2000 stipulates that to allow proper management of the Action allow a realistic ‘State of the AONB’ report AONB Management Plans must be Programme by the AONB Joint Advisory to be compiled, drawing together useful reviewed every five years. Committee (JAC) and other lead agencies, and and relevant statistics.  The next formal review of the Management to provide key stakeholders and the wider Plan will begin in 2018, although the Plan is community with the means to evaluate Partnership monitoring under constant informal review to ensure progress. Performance measurement will take  An annual Action Programme is drawn‐up that its overall aims are being achieved, place on two levels. in order to guide specific actions within and policies are constantly evolving to each financial year. Progress against the reflect changing issues and priorities. AONB Condition monitoring annual Action Programme is reported at  The condition of the AONB’s environment the March meeting of the JAC. A summary OBJECTIVES ‐ MONITORING (in its broad sense) is the key test of the of achievements is also published in Action Programme’s effectiveness in documents such as the Annual Report and Please see the Action Programme for details of implementing the Management Plan. AONB News. specific Actions for each Objective.  Condition monitoring takes place on a 5‐  The performance of the AONB Partnership yearly cycle, linked to Management Plan as a whole will continue to be monitored MN1 Monitor the performance of the AONB reviews. This allows progress to be via the Partnership Indicators that were partnership and AONB unit. assessed and relevant new targets set. developed some years ago by Natural  The list of Indicators shown in Figure 8 is England. These include Indicators on the MN2 Monitor the condition of the AONB. used to measure the Condition of the governance structure of the Partnership, AONB. The data for these Indicators is staff training and development, income largely being made available as part of secured, implementation of Management Natural England’s Framework for Plan Actions, etc. Although these are not Monitoring Environmental Outcomes in now a reporting requirement of Natural Protected Landscapes. In addition there

Figure 8. AONB Condition Indicators

Attribute Indicator Data collection organisation

1. Farmed Landscape a) % of land managed under Countryside Stewardship (CS) a) Natural England b) % of land managed under Higher Level Stewardship + b) Natural England Entry Level Stewardship (HLS + ELS) c) Natural England c) % of land managed under Entry Level Stewardship only d) Defra (June Census) (ELS) d) Changes in farmland type (% of permanent pasture/temporary grassland/arable land)

2. Woodland Landscape a) % of woodland cover Forestry Commission b) % of woodland under management

3. Biodiversity a) Condition of SSSIs a) Natural England b) Delivery of LBAP habitat targets for AONB – Condition b) JAC/NYCC (LAA) of SINCs

4. Historic and Built Environment a) Number of Archaeological features in the At Risk, a) English Heritage Vulnerable and Low/Not at Risk categories b) English Heritage/JAC b) Condition of Registered Parks & Gardens and historic c) English Heritage/ District Councils landscapes d) English Heritage c) Number of Buildings and Structures on ‘at Risk’ e) English Heritage registers f) JAC/NYCC d) Number of Conservation Areas on the ‘At Risk’ Register e) Number of Places of Worship on the 'At Risk' Register f) Condition of non‐designated Historic Environment Priority Sites

5. Water Quality (Rivers) Length of rivers (%) with 'High' or 'Good' Ecological Status Environment Agency (Water Framework Directive).

6. Tranquillity a) Maximum and minimum Tranquillity scores (CPRE/NE CPRE/NE

study). b) % of AONB in the relative High or Very High categories (CPRE/NE study).

7. Enjoying the Countryside ‘Ease of Use’ (%) of PRoW JAC/NYCC

8. Village Services/Amenities % of AONB villages that have a shop, pub, Post Office JAC/District Councils/Local Communities service or community building

9. Awareness of the AONB designation % of survey respondents aware of the Howardian Hills JAC AONB designation

3.3 ACTION PROGRAMME

The Management Plan contains a large number of Objectives and priority Actions. A list of recommended Delivery Partner/s has been identified for each Action – if there is a clear ‘Lead’ Partner they have been put in bold. The list is not exhaustive and it is hoped that other groups will wish to join any partnerships that are formed. The table also gives a provisional timescale and priority rating for each Action. Priority 2 Actions are those that are considered to be less critical, or ones for which significant additional resources are likely to be needed. The table should be read in conjunction with the Landscape Management & Priority Sites section of the Management Plan, which is on the CD inside the back cover.

The Action Programme will form the basis of an annual work programme for the Joint Advisory Committee (JAC) and partner organisations. The March meetings of the JAC will consider work completed in the previous year, as well as approving initiatives and tasks for the next year.

Abbreviations for Delivery Partner/s listed in the Action Programme are as follows:

BCU British Canoe Union NAAONB National Association for AONBs BGS British Geological Survey NE Natural England BHS British Horse Society NEYEDC North & East Yorkshire Ecological Data Centre CFE Campaign for the Farmed NEYGT North East Yorkshire Geology Trust Environment CLA Country Land and Business NFU National Farmers Union Association CoYC City of York Council NPG Northern Powergrid. The Electricity Distribution Network Operator covering the AONB CPRE Campaign to Protect Rural England NT National Trust CSPs Community Safety Partnerships NWDP Native Woodland Development Project CTC Cyclists Touring Club NYCC North Yorkshire County Council Defra Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs

EA Environment Agency NYP North Yorkshire Police EH English Heritage PCs Parish Councils EYRT East Yorkshire Rivers Trust RA Ramblers FC Forestry Commission RAY Rural Action Yorkshire HA Highways Agency RDC Ryedale District Council H&WB Health & Wellbeing Board RFS Royal Forestry Society HDC Hambleton District Council RSPB Royal Society for the Protection of Birds IDBs Internal Drainage Boards RVA Ryedale Voluntary Action JAC Joint Advisory Committee SBC Scarborough Borough Council LANTRA The Rural Skills Training Agency TCV The Conservation Volunteers LEADER North York Moors, Coast & Hills TFA Tenant Farmers Association LEADER Local Action Group LEP Local Enterprise Partnership WtY Welcome to Yorkshire LNP Local Nature Partnership WT Woodland Trust NYGP North Yorkshire Geodiversity YAS Yorkshire Agricultural Society Partnership NYMNPA North York Moors National Park YFWP Yorkshire Farming and Wildlife Authority Partnership NYNET The North Yorkshire broadband Yorwoods The Yorkshire Woodlands Initiative partnership YWT Yorkshire Wildlife Trust

ALTHOUGH NOT SPECIFICALLY MENTIONED IN THE TABLE, ANY OBJECTIVES RELATING TO LAND MANAGEMENT WILL RELY ON THE GOODWILL AND CO‐OPERATION OF FARMERS, LANDOWNERS AND LAND MANAGERS IF THEY ARE TO BE ACHIEVED

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

AN ECOSYSTEM APPROACH

ES1 Gain a better ES1.1 Produce a matrix of the habitats and AONB Unit, HDC, NE, NYCC, RDC Lead 1, 2 1 understanding of the Special Qualities of the AONB, plotted AONB’s contribution to against the ecosystem services that ecosystem services they provide. ES1.2 Produce a matrix of generic types of AONB Unit, EA, HDC, NE, RDC Lead 1, 2 1 ‘project’ (e.g. hedge planting grants, agri‐environment schemes, land use, in‐fill housing development, larger housing developments, habitat management, etc) plotted against the ecosystem services that the AONB provides.

ES2 Promote sustainability ES2.1 Ensure that any Plan, policy or project AONB Unit, EA, FC, HDC, NE, NYCC, Lead & On‐going 1 and support appropriate that could impact on the AONB, RDC Advise projects that benefit the whether positively or negatively, is AONB’s ecosystems assessed for compliance with the services and Special AONB Management Plan. Qualities ES2.2 Use an ecosystems services AONB Unit, HDC, NYCC, RDC Lead 2 onwards 1 assessment to guide consultation responses and assess projects that receive assistance from the JAC.

ES3 Understand potential ES3.1 Keep up‐to‐date on climate change AONB Unit, EA, FC, HDC, NE, NYCC, Lead On‐going 2 climate change trends and information and scenarios. RDC scenarios and monitor ES3.2 Monitor the potential impacts of AONB Unit, EA, FC, HDC, NE, NYCC, Lead On‐going 2 impacts on the AONB climate change on the AONB. NYMNPA, RDC

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

A RICH HERITAGE

Natural Environment

NE1 Continually improve NE1.1 Carry out a rolling programme of AONB Unit, HDC, NE, NEYEDC, NYCC, Support On‐going 2 knowledge of the wildlife monitoring surveys on Sites of RDC resources in the AONB Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs). NE1.2 Carry out detailed surveys of specific AONB Unit, HDC, NE, NYCC, RDC Advise & On‐going 2 BAP habitats or species as necessary, Encourage to fill identified gaps in knowledge. NE1.3 Encourage farmers, land managers and AONB Unit, CLA, HDC, NE, NFU, Support On‐going 1 communities to monitor wildlife and NEYEDC, NYCC, PCs, RDC, RSPB, TCV, report sightings. YFWP, YWT, NE1.4 Commission NEYEDC to compile a AONB Unit, NEYEDC, NYCC Lead 1, 2 2 report of the species records for the AONB.

NE2 Ensure that appropriate NE2.1 Maintain and regularly update a AONB Unit, HDC, NE, NYCC, NEYEDC, Advise & On‐going 1 protection is given to the register of key nature conservation RDC, YWT Support best nature conservation sites. sites in the AONB NE2.2 Ensure effective protection (via HDC, JAC, NE, NYCC, RDC, Support On‐going 2 designation) for the best nature YWT conservation sites. NE2.3 Resist development proposals that AONB Unit, HDC, NE, NYCC, RDC Lead & On‐going 1 may affect key nature conservation Advise sites.

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

NE3 Assist with the NE3.1 Ensure that all Special Interest Road AONB Unit, CLA, EA, FC, HDC, NE, NFU, Lead & On‐going 1 implementation of Verges and sites identified in this Plan NWDP, NYCC, RDC, WT Encourage LBAP/BD2020/WFD as Natural Environment Priority Sites targets for priority are in ‘favourable’ or ‘recovering’ habitats in the AONB condition. (broadleaved woodland; NE3.2 Encourage the extension and buffering AONB Unit, CFE, CLA, EA, FC, NE, NFU, Encourage & On‐going 1 grasslands; wetlands) to of sites identified in this Plan as Natural NWDP, YWT Support improve condition and Environment Priority Sites. increase habitat network NE3.3 Encourage the restoration of habitats AONB Unit, CLA, EA, EYRT, FC, IDBs, NE, Encourage & On‐going 1 connectivity that have declined in interest but still NFU, NWDP, RFS, WT, YWT Support retain significant ecological potential, particularly Plantations on Ancient Woodland Sites, rivers and water bodies not in Good Ecological Status and sites identified in this Plan as Natural Environment Priority Sites. NE3.4 Encourage the creation of new habitat AONB Unit, CFE, CLA, EA, FC, IDBs, LNP, Lead & On‐going 1 where appropriate, in particular the NE, NFU, NWDP, NYMNPA, WT, YWT Encourage less‐intensive management of farmland, to create a wider network of complementary semi‐natural habitats. NE3.5 Identify and promote landscape‐scale AONB Unit, CFE, CLA, EA, FC, LNP, NE, Lead & On‐going 1 habitat corridors, particularly around NFU, NWDP, NYMNPA, WT, YWT Encourage the Derwent valley and linking into the NYMNP.

NE4 Assist with the NE4.1 Ensure that key sites for specific AONB Unit, CFE, CLA, EA, HDC, NE, NFU, Lead & On‐going 1 implementation of species are in ‘favourable’ or NYCC, PCs, RDC, WT, YWT Encourage LBAP/BD2020 targets for ‘recovering’ condition. priority species for which NE4.2 Encourage restoration or creation of AONB Unit, CFE, CLA, EA, HDC, NE, NFU, Encourage On‐going 1 the AONB is important sites where significant ecological NYCC, RDC potential exists. NE4.3 Identify local Target Areas and AONB Unit, CFE, CLA, EA, FC, HDC, LNP, Lead & On‐going 1 encourage co‐ordinated management NE, NFU, NYCC, NYMNPA, RDC Encourage measures.

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

NE5 Assist with the NE5.1 Raise awareness of wildlife within AONB Unit, HDC, NYCC, RDC, TCV, WT, Lead & On‐going 2 implementation of villages and assist communities with YWT Support LBAP/BD2020 targets for creating and managing community wildlife within villages areas for biodiversity.

NE6 Monitor and where NE6.1 Monitor the location and abundance AONB Unit, CLA, EA, FC, HDC, IDBs, NE, Lead & On‐going 1 appropriate support of invasive non‐native species. NFU, NYCC, NYMNPA, RDC Encourage control of invasive non‐ NE6.2 Carry out targeted partnership action AONB Unit, CLA, EA, HDC, IDBs, NFU, Lead & On‐going 1 native species in the AONB to manage invasive non‐native species NYCC, NYMNPA, RDC, RFS Encourage where appropriate.

NE7 Encourage the NE7.1 Develop a network of Regionally BGS, HDC, JAC, NEYGT, NYCC, NYGP, Support & On‐going 1 identification and Important Geological Sites (RIGS). RDC Encourage conservation of important NE7.2 Ensure that sites identified as RIGS are AONB Unit, HDC, RDC, NEYGT, NYGP Lead & On‐going 2 geodiversity sites and in ‘favourable’ or ‘recovering’ Encourage features in the AONB condition. NE7.3 Resist development proposals that AONB Unit, HDC, RDC Lead & On‐going 1 may affect key geodiversity sites. Advise

NE8 Provide assistance to NE8.1 Assist farmers and land managers to AONB Unit, CFE, CLA, HDC, NE, NFU, Lead & On‐going 1 farmers and land enter key sites, particularly those NYCC, RDC, TFA Support managers, to help them identified in this Plan as Natural manage their land Environment Priority Sites, and other sympathetically farmed land into appropriate agri‐ environment schemes. NE8.2 Provide a flexible package of AONB Unit, HDC, NYCC, RDC Lead On‐going 1 assistance including advice, grant aid, direct works and management agreements, as appropriate, to enable owners to identify, manage or enhance biodiversity on their land.

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

NE9 Ensure continued NE9.1 Participate in the LNP, to identify AONB Unit, HDC, LNP, NYCC, Lead On‐going 1 recognition of the opportunities for integrated projects NYMNPA, RDC Howardian Hills as a that achieve LNP and AONB priority area for Management Plan objectives. biodiversity in North Yorkshire, as part of the NY&Y LNP

Historic Environment

HE1 Improve understanding of HE1.1 Re‐assess the archaeology of the AONB Unit, EH, NYCC Support & 2, 3 2 the AONB’s historic AONB to create an up‐to‐date Encourage environment and its evidence base, better understand significance significant sites and inform a research agenda. HE1.2 Consider preparing a Statement of EH, NYCC Support & 3 2 Significance for the AONB. Encourage HE1.3 Carry out research projects to address Community groups, EH, NYCC, Support & On‐going 2 identified gaps in knowledge, including Universities Encourage rural industries, prehistoric burials, patterns of medieval settlement & farming and historic parklands. HE1.4 Carry out regular surveys of built AONB Unit, HDC, NYCC, RDC Advise & On‐going 2 heritage to identify important or Support distinctive building groups, individual structures, architectural features and Buildings at Risk. HE1.5 Promote the recording of local history AONB Unit, HDC, LEADER, RDC Support On‐going 2 and traditions. HE1.6 Encourage information to be recorded AONB Unit, HDC, NYCC, RDC Support & On‐going 1 in the North Yorkshire Historic Encourage Environment Record.

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

HE2 Sustain and enhance the HE2.1 Resist development proposals that AONB Unit, EH, HDC, RDC Lead & On‐going 1 significance of the AONB’s would be likely to harm the Advise historic environment significance of the AONB’s heritage assets. HE2.2 Consider introducing Article 4 HDC, JAC, RDC Support & 2 onwards 2 Directions for Conservation Areas in Encourage the AONB, to preserve historic character and prevent incremental damaging change. HE2.3 Establish a project to survey and AONB Unit, EH, HDC, NYCC, RDC Lead 1 1 manage Heritage at Risk in the AONB. HE2.4 Prepare conservation/management AONB Unit, EH, NYCC Support & On‐going 2 plans for all designed landscapes. Encourage HE2.5 Provide a flexible package of AONB Unit, EH, HDC, NYCC, RDC Lead On‐going 1 assistance including advice, grant aid and direct works, as appropriate, to assist owners with understanding and conserving the historic environment, particularly those features identified in this Plan as Historic Environment Priority Sites. HE2.6 Encourage farmers and land managers AONB Unit, EH, HDC, NE, NYCC, RDC Lead & On‐going 1 to enter archaeological features and Support other historic assets into appropriate options in agri‐environment schemes. HE2.7 Monitor developments in the AONB Unit, EH, HDC, NYCC, RDC Lead On‐going 2 understanding of potential climate change impacts on historic environment features.

HE3 Help local people to HE3.1 Publish criteria and provide assistance EH, HDC, JAC, RDC Lead & 2, 3 2 identify the non‐ to enable local communities to identify Support designated heritage assets the non‐designated heritage assets which contribute to the which contribute to the character of character of their area and their area. support the development HE3.2 Support the development of site‐based AONB Unit, EH, HDC, RDC Support & 3 onwards 2 of management strategies management strategies to conserve Encourage for their conservation and and enhance important non‐ enhancement designated heritage assets identified by local communities.

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

LIVING AND WORKING IN THE HOWARDIAN HILLS

Local Communities

LC1 Assist local communities LC1.1 Lobby Government on relevant NAAONB, JAC, NYCC Lead On‐going 1 with identifying and national rural issues, via the NAAONB. implementing projects that LC1.2 Work as appropriate with partner AONB Unit, CSP H&WB, NYCC, RAY, Lead & On‐going 1 maintain and enhance organisations to develop innovative RVA Advise their character, projects for delivering services to local sustainability and sense of communities. community LC1.3 Prepare/review Parish Plans for AONB HDC, JAC, RAY, RDC, RVA Encourage & On‐going 1 villages. Support LC1.4 Implement projects contained in AONB Unit, HDC, LEADER, RDC Encourage & On‐going 1 Parish Plans or identified by Support communities.

LC2 Encourage voluntary and LC2.1 Work with communities, local groups, AONB Unit, CLA, HDC, NEYEDC, NFU, Lead & On‐going 1 community engagement businesses and land managers to NYCC, PCs, RDC, Schools, TCV, Encourage with the local natural and encourage partnership action for Volunteers, YWT historic environment of the identifying, monitoring, managing, AONB raising awareness of, accessing and enjoying the natural and historic environment.

Agriculture

AG1 Encourage the AG1.1 Lobby Government, via the NAAONB, CLA, JAC, NAAONB, NFU, NYCC, TFA Lead 1 1 development and uptake to ensure that satisfactory rural of Government support support mechanisms and agri‐ mechanisms that achieve environment schemes emerge from sustainable farm and rural CAP reform. business development AG1.2 Investigate Payment for Ecosystems AONB Unit, CLA, NE, NFU, NYMNPA, Lead On‐going 2 Services schemes and assess their TFA potential for the AONB. AG1.3 Lobby to ensure that the Howardian HDC, JAC, NYCC, RDC Lead On‐going 1 Hills AONB remains a priority area for funding from Government agencies.

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

AG2 Support farm businesses AG2.1 Provide specialist advice and ‘sign‐ AONB Unit, HDC, NYMNPA, RDC, Lead On‐going 1 in the AONB by providing posting’ on conservation grants and YFWP advice and appropriate countryside management within the assistance AONB. AG2.2 Provide a flexible package of AONB Unit, HDC, NYCC, RDC Lead On‐going 1 assistance including advice, grant aid and direct works, as appropriate, for landscape conservation projects.

AG3 Ensure high standards of AG3.1 Support the construction of new farm AONB Unit, CLA, CPRE, HDC, NFU, Lead & On‐going 1 design and careful siting of buildings and infrastructure where RDC Advise all new farm buildings and these follow the principles set out in infrastructure the AONB Farm Buildings Design Guidance.

Forestry and Woodland

FW1 Ensure that all woodland FW1.1 Continue the consultation procedure FC, JAC Lead On‐going 1 felling, management and between the JAC and Forestry creation proposals Commission. recognise the Special Qualities of the AONB

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

FW2 Encourage a multi‐ FW2.1 Encourage woodland owners to AONB Unit, FC, NWDP, RFS Support & On‐going 2 objective approach to manage their woodlands in Encourage woodland management in accordance with the UK Forestry the AONB Standard. FW2.2 Encourage woodland owners and AONB Unit, CLA, FC, NE, NFU, NWDP, Support & On‐going 1 managers to enter national grant RFS, WT Encourage schemes, to access the full range of appropriate grants.

FW3 Monitor and manage the FW3.1 Keep up‐to‐date with information on AONB Unit, FC, HDC, NYCC, RDC, Lead On‐going 1 incidence and impacts of invasive woodland pests and diseases, NWDP pests and diseases in the in particular C. fraxinea, P. ramorum AONB and muntjac deer. FW3.2 Encourage vigilance and reporting of AONB Unit, CLA, FC, HDC, NFU, Lead & On‐going 1 suspected sightings. NYCC, RDC, RFS, WT Encourage FW3.3 Carry out appropriate mitigation AONB Unit, CLA, FC, HDC, NFU, Support On‐going 1 strategies to manage the impacts of NYCC, RDC, RFS pests and diseases.

FW4 Encourage the use of FW4.1 Promote the incorporation of natural AONB Unit, FC, HDC, NYCC, NWDP, Advise & On‐going 2 known provenance trees regeneration of appropriate native RDC Encourage and shrubs when planting tree and shrub species into restocking or re‐stocking plans. FW4.2 Promote the use of appropriate AONB Unit, FC, HDC, NYCC, NWDP, Advise & On‐going 1 provenance nursery stock when RDC Encourage restocking. FW4.3 Work with local forest nurseries to AONB Unit, Castle Howard, NWDP, Support On‐going 1 ensure that adequate quantities of RDC local provenance material are available.

FW5 Encourage new areas of FW5.1 Use forestry grant procedures to AONB Unit, FC, HDC, NWDP, RDC Advise On‐going 1 woodland where these advise on the siting and design of new would conserve or areas of woodland, within the enhance the Special guidance provided by the Landscape Qualities of the AONB or Management & Priority Sites section of improve habitat networks this Plan.

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

FW6 Encourage the continued FW6.1 Support the development of a local AONB Unit, FC, HDC, LEP, NYCC, RDC, Support & On‐going 1 development of markets woodfuel market. RFS, Yorwoods Encourage for wood and timber FW6.2 Encourage the use of timber from the AONB Unit, LEP, RFS, Yorwoods Support & On‐going 2 AONB in local industries, e.g. furniture Encourage making, traditional building restoration, etc.

FW7 Encourage the FW7.1 Lobby for grant incentives that Defra, FC, JAC, NAAONB Advise & 1 1 development of grant and realistically assist with priority work Support advice mechanisms that within the AONB to be included in the achieve AONB next Rural Development Programme. Management Plan FW7.2 Support the continuation and FC, JAC, NYMNPA, RFS, WT Support & On‐going 1 objectives for woodland evolution of the Native Woodland Encourage management and creation Development Project.

Development & Rural Economy

D1 Ensure that any new D1.1 Ensure that all relevant Plans, AONB Unit, Defra, HDC, NE, NYCC, Lead & On‐going 1 development is Strategies and Policies recognise, RDC Advise compatible with the aims protect and, where appropriate, of AONB designation and enhance the Special Qualities of the has regard to social, AONB and its setting. economic and D1.2 Maintain effective consultation HDC, JAC, NYCC, RDC Lead & On‐going 1 environmental arrangements between Local Planning Advise sustainability Authorities and the Joint Advisory Committee.

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

D2 Encourage high standards D2.1 Ensure consistent high‐quality rural AONB Unit, HDC, RDC Advise On‐going 1 in both the design of new design standards covering the whole development within the AONB, including building design, AONB and the materials and green infrastructure. management of existing D2.2 Encourage communities to prepare AONB Unit, HDC, PCs, RAY, RDC Encourage & On‐going 2 buildings/features Village Design Statements, to guide the Support design of future development. D2.3 Provide guidance on sustainable AONB Unit, HDC, RDC Support On‐going 2 building restoration techniques, including energy conservation measures. D2.4 Consider undertaking appraisals to Community groups, HDC, PCs, RDC Encourage & On‐going 2 enable the designation of new Support Conservation Areas and the enhancement of existing ones.

D3 Encourage the mitigation D3.1 In co‐operation with landowners and AONB Unit, HDC, RDC Lead & On‐going 2 of intrusive features, to developers, encourage local Encourage enhance the local enhancement works to mitigate the landscape character and impact of visually intrusive tranquillity of the AONB developments. D3.2 Continue liaison arrangements with AONB Unit, HDC, NPG, NYCC, RDC Lead & On‐going 1 Northern Powergrid, to prioritise and Advise implement the undergrounding of electricity cables in prominent locations. D3.3 Maintain links with BT Openreach, to AONB Unit, NAAONB, Openreach Lead & On‐going 1 encourage the undergrounding of Encourage telephone cables in prominent locations. D3.4 Resist developments that increase the AONB Unit, CPRE, HDC, NYCC, RDC Lead & On‐going 1 impact of light or noise pollution on Advise the AONB or its setting.

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

D4 Support appropriate D4.1 Resist any large‐scale minerals‐ CPRE, HDC, JAC, NYCC, RDC Lead & On‐going 1 minerals‐working working operations which are not Advise proposals which conserve compatible with AONB objectives. and enhance the Special D4.2 Support appropriate proposals for AONB Unit, BGS, EH, HDC, NYCC, RDC Advise & On‐going 1 Qualities of the AONB small‐scale quarrying of stone for local Support uses and to assist with repairs to heritage assets. D4.3 Safeguard/obtain supplies of suitable AONB Unit, NYCC Lead On‐going 1 local stone for drystone wall restoration.

D5 Support appropriate D5.1 Provide advice and guidance on AONB Unit, HDC, RDC Lead & On‐going 1 renewable energy renewable energy technologies and Support installations that do not installations likely to be appropriate in have adverse impacts on the AONB. the Special Qualities of the D5.2 Support appropriate proposals that AONB Unit, CPRE, HDC, NYCC, RDC Advise & On‐going 1 AONB follow the ‘4 Rights’ – Technology, Support Scale, Place and Design. D5.3 Promote the benefits of appropriate AONB Unit, HDC, RDC Lead On‐going 2 renewable energy developments and demonstrate examples of ‘best practice’ projects.

D6 Support rural business, D6.1 Promote access to and the provision of AONB Unit, HDC, LANTRA, LEADER, Support On‐going 1 local employment/training ICT, business and rural skills advice, LEP, RDC, YAS and farm diversification courses, demonstrations, etc. activities that do not have D6.2 Encourage local businesses to develop AONB Unit, LEADER, LEP, HDC, RDC Encourage & On‐going 1 adverse impacts on the appropriate new enterprises. Support Special Qualities of the D6.3 Maintain a positive approach to AONB Unit, HDC, NYCC, RDC Lead & On‐going 1 AONB planning control for appropriate farm Advise diversification projects. D6.4 Support appropriate proposals to re‐ AONB Unit, HDC, NYCC, RDC Advise & On‐going 1 use both traditional and modern farm Support buildings, where their historic and wildlife value can be safeguarded. D6.5 Support appropriate proposals for AONB Unit, HDC, NYCC, RDC Advise & On‐going 1 developing new workspace within the Support AONB.

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

D7 Encourage the expansion D7.1 Support the provision of high‐speed AONB Unit, CPRE, HDC, NYNET, RDC Advise & On‐going 1 of modern broadband and mobile phone Support telecommunications installations that do not have adverse technology, whilst impacts on the Special Qualities of the safeguarding the Special AONB. Qualities and tranquillity of the AONB

D8 Encourage the increased D8.1 Maintain up‐to‐date information on HDC, RDC Support On‐going 1 provision of local‐needs/ housing needs within the AONB. affordable housing in the D8.2 Promote the potential benefits of AONB Unit, HDC, RDC Lead & On‐going 2 AONB local‐needs housing to AONB farmers, Support landowners and residents.

Roads, Transport and Traffic Management

RT1 Encourage solutions to RT1.1 Support appropriate proposals for a AONB Unit, HA, NYCC, RDC Encourage & On‐going 2 specific traffic routing full‐movement interchange at the Support issues in and around the A64/B1257 junction. AONB, to discourage RT1.2 Monitor freight issues in the AONB, to AONB Unit, Communities, HDC, NYCC, Support & On‐going 2 through‐traffic and ensure identify any patterns in HCV through‐ RDC Encourage that other traffic uses the traffic. most appropriate route RT1.3 Encourage measures to address any AONB Unit, HDC, NYCC, RDC Advise & On‐going 2 issues raised during freight monitoring. Support

RT2 Support initiatives to RT2.1 In line with the Road Safety CSPs, NYCC, NYP Encourage On‐going 2 monitor and address Partnership speed management traffic and driver protocol, carry out speed‐checks in behaviour issues in the identified locations to investigate AONB reported issues. RT2.2 Consider organising local events that AONB Unit, NYCC, NYP, RAY Encourage & On‐going 2 examine and address traffic and driver Support behaviour issues, in identified problem locations.

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

RT3 Promote the use of RT3.1 Identify transport service, AONB Unit, Communities, HDC, Advise & On‐going 1 sustainable modes of infrastructure and accessibility NYCC, RAY, RDC Support transport as alternatives improvements. to the private car RT3.2 Develop and implement identified Communities, HDC, NYCC, RAY, RDC Encourage On‐going 1 measures as appropriate. RT3.3 Promote the availability of alternative AONB Unit, HDC, NYCC, NYMNPA, Lead & On‐going 1 transport services in AONB literature, RDC Support in local villages and at visitor attractions. RT3.4 Ensure that the next Local Transport AONB Unit, NYCC Advise 2 onwards 1 Plan for North Yorkshire contributes to the implementation of AONB Management Plan Objectives, where appropriate.

RT4 Maintain the existing rural RT4.1 Continue liaison arrangements AONB Unit, NYCC Lead & On‐going 1 character of the road between the Joint Advisory Committee Encourage network in the AONB and highway authority (and its agents) for all proposals in the AONB. RT4.2 Distribute the Howardian Hills Area AONB Unit, NYCC Lead 1 1 Profile to relevant teams within the highway authority. RT4.3 Identify examples of road sign clutter AONB Unit, NYCC Lead & On‐going 2 and seek improvements. Encourage RT4.4 Ensure that the specific locations of AONB Unit, HDC, NYCC, RDC Lead & 1 1 historic roadside furniture are Support recorded on the National Street Gazetteer. RT4.5 Ensure that traditional direction signs, AONB Unit, EH, HDC, NYCC, RDC Lead & On‐going 1 mileposts and other historic structures Support within and adjacent to the highway are maintained and appropriately managed.

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

RT5 Ensure that any proposals RT5.1 Ensure that improvements to the A64 CoYC, JAC, NYCC, RDC, SBC Support On‐going 1 for improvement of the (to enhance road safety, accessibility A64 trunk road through and journey‐time reliability) have the AONB are fully regard to the Special Qualities of the justified and adopt AONB. appropriate local RT5.2 Monitor future proposals and provide AONB Unit, NYCC, RDC Advise On‐going 1 standards of design. comments to the Highways Agency. Taking account of significant safety concerns, proposals should aim to make maximum use of the existing road alignment and have minimum environmental impact. ENJOYING THE AONB

Recreation, Access & Tourism

RA1 Encourage sustainable RA1.1 Use planning policies to support AONB Unit, HDC, RDC Advise & On‐going 1 recreational activities that appropriate recreational business Support do not conflict with the developments. Special Qualities of the RA1.2 Monitor the levels and sustainability of AONB Unit, HDC, RDC Lead & On‐going 2 AONB recreational activities within the Encourage AONB.

RA2 Promote the attractions RA2.1 Work with local partner organisations AONB Unit, HDC, LEADER, NYMNPA, Lead & On‐going 1 and Special Qualities of to promote sustainable tourism and RDC Support the AONB to encourage recreational activities in the sustainable use and Howardian Hills. support the local visitor RA2.2 Develop and implement initiatives to AONB Unit, HDC, H&WB, LEADER, RA, Lead & On‐going 1 economy encourage Under‐Represented Groups RDC Support to enjoy the AONB.

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

RA3 Maintain and improve RA3.1 Ensure the maintenance and AONB Unit, CLA, NFU, NYCC Encourage & On‐going 1 both the condition and improvement of path furniture in the Support network of Public Rights of AONB, as appropriate. Way in the AONB RA3.2 Liaise with local landowners to quickly AONB Unit, CLA, NFU, NYCC Encourage & On‐going 1 rectify identified path condition Support problems, including seasonal overgrowth and ploughing/cropping. RA3.3 Carry out path improvements, AONB Unit, FC, HDC, NYCC, RDC Advise & On‐going 2 particularly via management measures Support such as ride‐widening and the use of alternative routes. RA3.4 Ensure the correct identification of all NYCC Encourage & On‐going 2 Public Rights of Way routes on the Support Definitive Map by 2026. RA3.5 Bring ‘missing routes’ and ‘route status AONB Unit, BHS, HDC, NYCC, RA, RDC Lead & On‐going 1 inconsistencies’ to the attention of the Support highway authority and lobby for action. RA3.6 Support appropriate Public Rights of AONB Unit, BHS, NYCC, RA Advise & On‐going 2 Way diversion, creation and Support extinguishment orders/agreements in response to particular local issues or to improve the local network. RA3.7 Encourage the creation of new access AONB Unit, BHS, HDC, NYCC, RA, RDC Advise & On‐going 1 routes/areas where the Public Rights Support of Way network is less developed.

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

RA4 Carry out recreational RA4.1 Carry out small‐scale management AONB Unit, HDC, NYCC, RDC Lead On‐going 1 management measures as works as necessary, particularly on appropriate, to enhance sites used for car parking and those enjoyment by the public identified in this Plan as Recreation and address local issues Priority Sites. RA4.2 Use planning and other policy controls AONB Unit, BCU, RDC Advise & On‐going 1 to discourage unsustainable Support recreational use of the Derwent valley. RA4.3 Encourage low‐key countryside AONB Unit, FC, LEADER Advise & On‐going 2 management works to improve Support recreation management on Forestry Commission land. RA4.4 Encourage the development/use of AONB Unit, HDC, NYP, PCs, RDC, Lead On‐going 1 designated village parking areas and Village Halls toilet facilities by recreational visitors. RA4.5 Monitor the levels of litter and fly‐ AONB Unit, HDC, RDC Advise & On‐going 1 tipping within the AONB and take Support action as appropriate.

RA5 Develop routes within the RA5.1 Identify appropriate routes, linked to AONB Unit, HDC, NYCC, RA, RDC Lead & On‐going 1 AONB for different user public transport where possible. Support groups and provide self‐ RA5.2 Identify and develop easy‐access paths AONB Unit, HDC, NYCC, RA, RDC Lead & On‐going 1 guided information to enable less agile users to access the Support countryside in the AONB. RA5.3 Publish guide leaflets and information AONB Unit, BHS, HDC, H&WB, NYCC, Lead & On‐going 1 in a variety of formats as appropriate, RA, RDC Support to encourage usage.

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

AWARENESS AND PROMOTION

AP1 Maintain awareness and AP1.1 Maintain the existing ‘gateway signs’ AONB Unit, HA, NYCC Lead On‐going; 2 1 understanding of the on roads entering the AONB and seek AONB designation, its to install signs on the A64. importance and the role of AP1.2 Provide information on the work of the AONB Unit, HDC, NYCC, RDC Lead On‐going 1 the Joint Advisory JAC via various publicity mechanisms, Committee as appropriate. AP1.3 Maintain a public profile in the local AONB Unit, HDC, NYCC, RDC Lead On‐going 1 media and at appropriate local events/shows.

AP2 Promote awareness of the AP2.1 Publish and distribute information AONB Unit, Communities, HDC, Local Lead On‐going 1 Special Qualities of the about the AONB at popular visitor businesses, RDC, WtY AONB destinations, in village shops and in visitor accommodation. AP2.2 Deliver guided walks, talks and AONB Unit, CLA, FC, NE, NFU, RFS, Lead & On‐going 1 demonstrations to explain the Special TFA, YAS Support Qualities of the AONB and promote appropriate management techniques. AP2.3 Continue a programme of activities AONB Unit, YAS, YWT Lead & On‐going 1 with local schools, young people and Support communities.

PUTTING THE PLAN INTO ACTION

Implementation

IM1 Consolidate and develop IM1.1 Seek appropriate sources of funding JAC, HDC, NYCC, RDC Lead On‐going 1 funding and partnership and assistance to implement mechanisms to achieve Management Plan Objectives. Management Plan IM1.2 Continue partnership arrangements JAC, HDC, NYCC, NYMNPA, RDC Lead On‐going 1 objectives with the North York Moors National Park Authority, as appropriate. IM1.3 Involve volunteers wherever possible, AONB Unit, Community Groups, HDC, Lead On‐going 1 to assist with the delivery of H&WB, NT, NYCC, PCs, RDC appropriate tasks and activities.

OBJECTIVE ACTION DELIVERY PARTNER/S ROLE OF FREQUENCY/ PRIORITY JAC YEAR

IM2 Ensure that the AONB IM2.1 Monitor the business requirements AONB Unit, NYCC Lead On‐going 1 partnership has a robust and model of the AONB partnership business model that is and identify improvements as resilient to future appropriate. challenges IM2.2 Incorporate suggested improvements JAC Lead Annual 1 into the annual Action Programme and Budget approval processes.

Monitoring

MN1 Monitor the performance MN1.1 Report annual progress on AONB Unit, EA, FC, HDC, NE, NYCC, Lead Annual 1 of the AONB partnership achievement of Management Plan RDC and AONB unit Objectives to the JAC, AONB Partnership and public. MN1.2 Monitor the performance of the AONB JAC Lead Annual 2 Partnership using the Natural England Partnership Indicators.

MN2 Monitor the condition of MN2.1 Develop a robust mechanism for AONB Unit, EH, HDC, NEYEDC, NYCC, Lead 1, 2 1 the AONB assessing the Condition of the non‐ RDC designated Priority Sites identified in this Plan. MN2.2 Establish baseline data for the AONB AONB Unit, HDC, NYCC, RDC Lead 2 1 Condition Indicators. MN2.3 Compile a ‘State of the AONB’ Report, AONB Unit, Communities, HDC, NYCC, Lead 2 1 including the AONB Condition PCs, RDC Indicators, the Framework for Monitoring Environmental Outcomes in Protected Areas and any other relevant statistics. MN2.4 Maintain a ‘fixed‐point photography’ AONB Unit, Volunteers Lead 1, 2 1 system for monitoring visual landscape change.

DATA SOURCE COPYRIGHT STATEMENTS

Where statistics are credited in the Management Plan as Natural England, Forestry Commission, Environment Agency or English Heritage 2013, these are supplied under the Framework for Monitoring Environmental Outcomes in Protected Landscapes project, to further the statutory purposes of National Parks, AONBs and the Broads. They are subject to the terms of use of the Natural England Open Government Licence, as published at: http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/Images/open ‐government‐licence‐NE_tcm6‐30744.pdf In addition:  Natural England statistics are © Natural England copyright 2013.  Forestry Commission statistics are © Forestry Commission copyright [2013].  Environment Agency statistics are supplied under the terms of the Environment Agency Standard Notice. Contains Environment Agency information © Environment Agency and database right.

LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT & PRIORITY SITES PLATEAU (Zone 1)

Condition/Risk

An assessment of the Condition or Risk category Landscape Management Management Zones of each site is given, where this is known: The landscape character areas identified in SSSI – Natural England information. Retain and reinforce the ‘isolated almost upland’ Section 1.5 form a convenient framework for SINC – Assessment criteria to be agreed. character, resist unsympathetic development and considering specific parts of the AONB in more SM – English Heritage information. explore opportunities to diversify and soften the detail. Other Historic Environment Priority Sites – impact of ‘hard‐edged’ woodlands:

Assessment criteria to be agreed.  As opportunities arise, encourage diversification The Landscape Management sub‐sections deal with the issues in each particular landscape and re‐design of conifer plantations, to increase Condition assessments allow the monitoring of variety and reflect local characteristics and character area. The specific Priority Sites have site condition over time, as well as providing been included because each of them makes a topographical features. Give priority to open information for the Condition Indicators that space, natural regeneration or broadleaved particularly important contribution to the measure the overall health of the component planting along woodland edges and roadsides; also conservation and enhancement of the AONB’s features that make up the AONB’s Special natural regeneration or broadleaved planting Special Qualities. As such they are key sites for Qualities. adjacent to existing fragments of semi‐natural management or restoration (as applicable). The broadleaved woodland. management priorities and suggested actions are Reference numbers in this part of the Plan refer  Encourage sensitive felling operations in terms of not however intended to be prescriptive or to sites located on the large map, which can be scale and phasing, especially in visually prominent exclusive. They should be viewed as strategic found on the CD on the inside of the back cover. locations.  Discourage large‐scale extensions to existing recommendations intended to guide the It should be noted that nearly all these sites are woods. activities of farmers, landowners and the various on private land and access is only available via  Retain fragments of former heathland vegetation agencies that have an influence upon the existing Public Rights of Way or by express management of the Howardian Hills. It is hoped and encourage regeneration wherever possible permission of the landowner. during future woodland management operations. that they will help local communities,  Encourage appropriate planting to integrate the organisations and individuals to work together to Site designations: more prominent buildings and structures into the improve their own environment within an agreed SSSI – Site of Special Scientific Interest. landscape. framework. In combination with the Objectives, (National importance)  Encourage maintenance and, where appropriate, they will also be used to determine priorities for SINC – Site of Importance for Nature the rebuilding of traditional drystone walls where local funding and to decide where additional Conservation. (Local importance) these form a characteristic feature. financial incentives might be needed. SM – Scheduled Monument. (National

importance)

RPG – Registered Park and Garden. (National importance)

Natural Environment Priority Sites Round barrows, Yearsley (2.2) – SM. Vulnerable & Grimston Grange (3.2) – A County Council Low/Not at Risk. Reduce erosion by stock. chippings dump to the north‐west of Grimston Encourage the creation of broadleaved riparian Round barrows, Black Moor (2.3) – SM. At Risk. Grange crossroads. Monitor usage and condition. corridors and restoration of heathland habitats within Control bracken and establish a benign vegetation High Lions Lodge (3.3) – An area of Common Land existing conifer plantations. cover. formerly used as tipping area for soil and rubble. Round barrows, Grimston Moor (2.4) – SM. At Explore opportunities for restoration to more Grimston Moor (1.1) – SINC. Extensive areas of Risk, Vulnerable & Low/Not at Risk. Control tree appropriate use/appearance. heathland vegetation under pine plantations. and scrub growth. Control bracken and establish a Grimston Moor (3.4) – Private road leading to Encourage management as more open heathland benign vegetation cover. Forestry Commission woodland. Improve entrance habitat mosaic. Round barrows, Coney Hills (2.5) – SM. At Risk & gate arrangement/signage to facilitate access. High Lions Wood (1.2) – SINC. A mature secondary Vulnerable. Reduce impact of arable ploughing. birch woodland with an acidic heath flora. Ensure Control scrub growth. Reduce impact of burrowing retention as native broadleaved woodland. animals. NORTHERN PLATEAU FRINGE (Zone 2A) Yearsley Moor Woods (1.5) – SINC. An extensive Field system, Swathgill (2.6) – Encourage site with a patchwork of both semi‐natural and sympathetic management of prehistoric field Landscape Management heavily modified habitats, arising from afforested system & barrow and seek to improve condition open heathland/designed landscape (Gilling within an agricultural regime. Seek opportunities to diversify and soften the impact Castle). Habitats include calcareous ash woodland, Limekiln, Blackdale Plantation (2.7) – Keep of woodlands and restore key elements of the former open water, fen, wet alder woodland, calcareous structure clear of vegetation and produce historic parkland character: and neutral grasslands, flushes, a sphagnum mire, management plan. sessile oak woodland, wood ‘pasture’, veteran Cropmarks of Iron Age/Roman field systems and  As opportunities arise, encourage diversification Scots pines and coniferised oak/birch woodland. enclosures, Grimston Howl (2.8) – Encourage and re‐design of conifer plantations, to increase Conifer regeneration removed from oak woodland continuation of sympathetic management variety and reflect local characteristics and in 2003. Significant on‐going removal of agreement (ELS) and seek to improve condition topographical features. Give priority to open rhododendron since 2011. Ensure retention and within an agricultural regime. Detailed survey of space, natural regeneration or broadleaved appropriate management of existing semi‐natural woodland fringes required to identify whether planting along woodland edges and roadsides; also habitats and encourage restoration of appropriate cropmarks survive as upstanding features. natural regeneration or broadleaved planting areas to heathland and broadleaved woodland. Hollow‐ways, Grimston Moor, Black Moor and adjacent to existing fragments of semi‐natural Yearsley Moor (2.9) – Community survey work broadleaved woodland. Historic Environment Priority Sites completed 2012. Avoid damage by heavy  Encourage sympathetic felling operations in terms machinery. of scale and phasing, especially where visually Many prehistoric burial mounds, most of which are prominent. Scheduled Monuments, lie in this Zone. Evidence also Recreation Priority Sites  Encourage preparation/implementation of long‐ of an extensive system of hollow‐ways. Opportunities term landscape management plans for the historic to encourage greater public appreciation of the Yearsley Moor (3.1) – A popular car parking area grounds of Newburgh Priory and Gilling Castle. historic landscape. for walkers. Parking area expanded and re‐  Where appropriate, maintain and restore surfaced 2012. Information board installed 2013 landscape features associated with former Neolithic long barrow, Black Hill (2.1) – SM. as part of Lime & Ice Yearsley Moor project. parkland, e.g. estate walls, avenues, parkland Vulnerable. Install protective roadside kerbing. Monitor condition. copses/trees and lakes.

 Discourage new woodland planting proposals that Historic Environment Priority Sites changes of use to ensure their long‐term contribution detract from the character of the historic to the cultural heritage of the area: parklands. A variety of prehistoric and later earthwork features  Work with the North York Moors National Park to are present in this Zone. Mill, Newburgh Park (2.17) develop integrated cross‐boundary The Mount, Newburgh Park (2.105) habitat/landscape corridors. Round barrows, Four Acre Wood and adjacent Park House, Newburgh Park (2.106) (2.11) – SM. At Risk & Low/Not at Risk. Control Natural Environment Priority Sites scrub growth. Control bracken and establish a Recreation Priority Sites benign vegetation cover. Reduce impact of arable Encourage the creation of broadleaved riparian ploughing. Reduce erosion by stock. Newburgh Priory Lake (3.5) – A popular surfaced corridors and restoration of heathland habitats within Cross dyke, Roman Plantation (2.12) – SM. At Risk roadside lay‐by giving views over Newburgh Priory existing conifer plantations. & Low/Not at Risk. Control scrub growth. Control Lake. Monitor level of use at peak periods. bracken and establish a benign vegetation cover. Yearsley Moor and Gilling Castle (3.6) – A large Colley Broach Road Pasture (1.3) – SINC. A large Round barrow, Yearsley Moor (2.13) – SM. area of principally conifer woodland, much of field of mainly unimproved neutral and marshy Low/Not at Risk. Minimise impact of forestry. which once formed the designed landscape grassland. Encourage continuation of existing Hollow‐ways, Grimston Moor, Black Moor and associated with Gilling Castle. The majority of the management agreement (HLS) to safeguard Yearsley Moor (2.9) – Community survey work woodland is leased by the Forestry Commission interest. completed 2012. Avoid damage by heavy and well‐used public footpaths link Yearsley Moor Boggs Plantation (1.4) – SINC. The best example of machinery. with the Park Wood fishponds. Extensively used by a semi‐natural valley alder wood in the AONB. The Stripe, Mount Plantation, Roman Plantation mountain bikers, walkers and horse riders. Ensure retention as native broadleaved woodland. & Heron Lye Gill, Newburgh (2.14) – Reduce Information board and sculpture seats installed in Yearsley Moor Woods (1.5) – SINC. An extensive impact of forestry, encourage more sympathetic 2013 as part of Lime & Ice Yearsley Moor project. site with a patchwork of both semi‐natural and management and improve understanding of Liaise with Forestry Commission on heavily modified habitats, arising from afforested features in woodland, initially through a issues/conflicts as appropriate. open heathland/designed landscape (Gilling management plan (see below). Castle). Habitats include calcareous ash woodland, open water, fen, wet alder woodland, calcareous Encourage preparation and implementation of WESTERN PLATEAU FRINGE (Zone 2B) & neutral grasslands, flushes, a sphagnum mire, management plans that identify opportunities for sessile oak woodland, wood ‘pasture’, veteran conserving, enhancing and restoring elements of the Landscape Management Scots pines and coniferised oak/birch woodland. historic landscape, both within and beyond the Conifer regeneration removed from oak woodland registered parkland: Strengthen the existing landscape framework of in 2003. Significant on‐going removal of hedges and hedgerow trees. Protect the open rhododendron since 2011. Ensure retention and Newburgh Priory (2.15) – RPG. Not at Risk character of the higher ground and encourage greater appropriate management of existing semi‐natural Gilling Castle (2.16) – RPG. Not at Risk tree cover on steeper slopes: habitats and encourage restoration of appropriate areas to heathland and broadleaved woodland. In liaison with owners, encourage repair of Listed  Encourage planting of new small to medium‐sized Buildings at Risk using grant resources available from areas of broadleaved or mixed woodland on local authorities and Government agencies. Where steeper slopes and valley shoulders. Discourage appropriate, explore opportunities for suitable

woodland planting on higher flatter ground and  Conserve areas of Ancient Semi‐Natural Woodland retention of native broadleaved woodland and protect long‐distance views. and promote appropriate forms of management. Banks, Hollowencourage‐way restoration& Causeway of replanted sections.  Encourage planting of hedgerow trees and copses  Encourage small‐scale extensions of existing valley using native species, to strengthen existing woodlands and new woodlands on the steeper Historic Environment Priority Sites landscape pattern. slopes of the scarp face and valley shoulders, using  Promote the retention, restoration and native species or mixtures where plantations are Archaeological survey to identify features related to sympathetic management of hedges, particularly already varied in character. woodland management would be highly worthwhile those in the most visible locations and those  In the valleys, maintain the more diverse in this Zone and would aid understanding of the associated with the remnant strip field system at landscape by retaining the small‐scale field pattern origins of the woods. Elsewhere, retain surviving Oulston. and areas of semi‐improved pasture along streams earthworks under a stable grass sward. and on steeper slopes. Historic Environment Priority Sites Cross dyke, Roman Plantation (2.12) – SM. At Risk Natural Environment Priority Sites & Low/Not at Risk. Control scrub growth. Control A variety of prehistoric and later earthwork features bracken and establish a benign vegetation cover. are present in this Zone. Hardy Bank (1.8) – SINC. A small area of Ancient Round barrows, Oulston Moor (2.20) – SM. woodland with an open canopy, reputed to be a Vulnerable. Control tree & scrub growth and Medieval village & field system, Thornton‐on‐the‐ remnant of the Forest of Galtres. Ensure retention bracken. Establish a benign vegetation cover. Hill (2.18) – Manage the whole area of earthworks as native broadleaved woodland. Limekiln, New Piece Moor (2.21) – Trees and under a stable grass sward. Moorside (Black Fir) Plantation (1.9) – SINC. A scrub removed in 2000. Monitor condition. Lynchets, ridge and furrow field system and other mature oak woodland, probably on an Ancient earthworks, Oulston (2.19) – Manage the whole site. Ensure retention as native broadleaved Recreation Priority Sites area of earthworks under a stable grass sward. woodland. Oulston Reservoir (1.10) – SINC. Two artificial Oulston Moor (3.7) – A popular starting point for lakes. The lower one is mesotrophic and has circular walks around Pond Head and Oulston. SOUTHERN PLATEAU FRINGE (Zone 2C) extensive areas of adjacent fen meadow. The Monitor usage and condition. upper lake is more eutrophic. Discourage practices Landscape Management that would damage or pollute aquatic habitats. Encourage sympathetic management of adjacent SOUTHERN MOORS FRINGE (Zone 2D) Strengthen the framework of hedges and encourage semi‐natural fen and grassland habitats. woodlands on steeper slopes and valley shoulders: Peel Wood and Grassland (1.11) – SINC. An Landscape Management interesting complex of habitats including  Encourage planting of trees and copses using broadleaved woodland, scrub and grassland. Conserve the ‘traditional’ landscape character, native species, to strengthen existing landscape Native woodland area extended by new planting in reinforce the existing framework of hedges, trees and pattern. 2005. Encourage continuation of existing woods and soften the impact of discordant features:  Promote the retention, restoration and management agreement (HLS) on part of site to sympathetic management of hedges, particularly safeguard interest.  Maintain the diverse character of the landscape by those in the most visible locations and those Dale Wood (1.12) – SINC. One of the largest areas retaining the small‐scale field pattern and areas of associated with the remnant strip field system of semi‐natural woodland in the AONB, with a pasture. near Hardy Bank. variety of different plant communities. Ensure

 Encourage planting of hedgerow trees and copses  Conserve areas of Ancient Semi‐Natural Woodland and manage invasive non‐native species (mink, using native species, to strengthen existing and promote appropriate forms of management. Himalayan balsam). landscape pattern. In Ancient replanted woodland, encourage greater  Promote the retention, restoration and use of native broadleaves. Elsewhere retain Historic Environment Priority Sites sympathetic management of hedges associated mixture of woodland types. with the extensive remnant strip field systems  Promote the retention, restoration and Cropmarks of field system, Grange Farm (2.23) – near Ampleforth. sympathetic management of hedges, particularly Seek to improve condition within an agricultural  Promote sympathetic management of those in the most visible locations and those regime. watercourses to enhance their visual and wildlife associated with the remnant strip field system value. near Sproxton.  Try to integrate modern developments into the  Encourage planting of hedgerow trees, copses and SOUTHERN RIDGE (Zone 3A) landscape through appropriate forms of tree small woods using native species to reinforce planting. existing landscape pattern, especially in Landscape Management  Encourage small‐scale extensions of existing association with streams and areas of pasture. woods on the steeper slopes of spurs.  Promote sympathetic management of Conserve the landscape balance between  Work with the North York Moors National Park to watercourses to enhance their visual and wildlife broadleaved woodland and farmland and restore develop integrated cross‐boundary value. those features which have declined or been lost: habitat/landscape corridors.  Work with the North York Moors National Park to develop integrated cross‐boundary  Retain broadleaved character of woodlands and Natural Environment Priority Sites habitat/landscape corridors. encourage greater use of native broadleaves wherever possible. Thorpe Spring Wood (1.13) – SINC. A largely semi‐ Natural Environment Priority Sites  Encourage planting of hedgerow trees and copses natural ash and oak woodland. Ensure retention as using native species, to strengthen landscape native broadleaved woodland. Robson’s Spring (1.14) – SINC. An area of pattern. calcareous ash woodland with a rich ground flora  Promote the retention, restoration and Historic Environment Priority Sites and forming part of a larger woodland complex. sympathetic management of hedges, particularly Some parts have been replanted with conifers. those in the most visible locations and those Medieval field system, Oswaldkirk Hall (2.22) – Ensure retention of native broadleaved woodland associated with the remnant strip field system at Manage under a stable grass sward. and encourage restoration of replanted sections. Skewsby. East Plock Woods (1.15) – SINC. A plantation of  Promote sympathetic management of beech, sycamore and larch on an Ancient site. watercourses to enhance their visual and wildlife EASTERN MOORS FRINGE (Zone 2E) Encourage restoration to native broadleaved value. woodland.  Continue restoration of character of highway Landscape Management River Rye, Helmsley Bridge to West Ness (1.16) – corridor along foot of scarp. SINC. A stretch of ‘natural’ river, the banks of Strengthen the existing framework of hedges and which support a varied flora and fauna. Discourage hedgerow trees and promote appropriate forms of management practices that would damage or woodland management: pollute the river system and associated habitats. Manage tree canopy to benefit river ecosystem

Natural Environment Priority Sites changes of use to ensure their long‐term contribution landscape and find opportunities for new planting to the cultural heritage of the area: in the highway corridor. Fairy Dell (1.17) – SINC. A species‐rich unimproved pasture with a spring, stream and pond. Witherholme Hall, Whenby (2.107) Natural Environment Priority Sites Encourage negotiation of management agreement to safeguard remaining interest. Little Dale, Mowthorpe (1.20) – SINC. An area of Stearsby Hag (1.18) – SINC. A large plantation of SOUTH EAST RIDGE (Zone 3B) unimproved marshy grassland with a varied flora. beech and sycamore on an Ancient site. Encourage Scrub control and fen cutting in 2007; scrub restoration to native broadleaved woodland. Landscape Management control and site fenced in 2008 and grazing by Stearsby Hag Grassland (1.19) – A small fragment Exmoor ponies introduced. Encourage of semi‐improved neutral grassland on a steep Try to restore a more strongly hedged landscape continuation of management agreement (AONB) bank. Encourage sympathetic management to framework with a higher density of tree cover and to safeguard interest. Continue scrub control and safeguard interest. promote more woodland planting to integrate the habitat management. area more closely with adjoining landscapes: Bulmer Beck Mire (1.21) – SINC. An area of rank Historic Environment Priority Sites fen grassland and marshy flushes. Re‐fenced in  Encourage appropriate management of Ancient 2002 and grazing by Exmoor ponies introduced. Round barrow, Stearsby Hag (2.24) – SM. At Risk. Woodland Sites, with greater use of native Encourage new management agreement to Control tree and scrub growth. Control bracken broadleaves. safeguard interest, as site has been withdrawn and establish a benign vegetation cover.  Encourage planting of new small to medium‐sized from HLS. City of Troy Maze, Stearsby Hag (2.25) – Continue areas of broadleaved or mixed woodland at Bulmer Mire (1.22) – SINC. An area of marshy with current sympathetic management regime. locations which do not interrupt long‐distance grassland at the foot of a small valley. Encourage Limekiln, High Wood (2.26) – Keep structure clear views, particularly on the more open scarp slopes sympathetic management to safeguard interest. of vegetation and prepare management plan. and valley sides towards the south of the area and Bulmer Hag (1.23) – SINC. An area of oak Ice house, Brandsby Hall (2.27) – Assess condition in association with farmsteads. woodland on an Ancient site, much of which has a and if necessary prepare management plan to  Encourage planting of hedgerow trees and copses semi‐natural appearance. Sections have been guide future management. using native species, to reinforce landscape replanted with conifers. Ensure retention of native Cropmarks of prehistoric dyke and triple bank, pattern. broadleaved woodland and encourage restoration Cop Howe (2.28) – Seek to improve condition  Promote the retention, restoration and of replanted sections. within an agricultural regime. Survey adjacent sympathetic management of hedges, particularly woodland fringes for upstanding remains and seek those in the most visible locations and those Historic Environment Priority Sites to manage sympathetically. associated with the remnant strip field systems at Ridge and furrow field system, Brandsby (2.29) – Ganthorpe, Bulmer and Crambe. Round barrow, Terrington (2.30) – SM. Very good surviving remains of a medieval field  On scarp slopes, tributary valleys and around Vulnerable. Control tree and scrub growth. system. Manage under a stable grass sward. villages, maintain the more diverse character by Earthworks of ridge and furrow & settlement retaining the small‐scale field pattern and areas of shrinkage, High Stittenham (2.31) – Manage the In liaison with owners, encourage repair of Listed pasture. whole area of earthworks under a stable grass Buildings at Risk using grant resources available from  Conserve and enhance areas of parkland. sward. local authorities and Government agencies. Where  Ensure any upgrading of the A64 trunk road Field system, Mill Fields (2.32) – Encourage appropriate, explore opportunities for suitable respects the character and high quality of the removal of tipped infill material. Manage the

whole area of earthworks under a stable grass  Discourage extension of limestone quarries survey to identify areas of conservation value and sward. beyond existing permitted areas and try to reduce management priorities. Earthworks of medieval field system, lynchets impact through planting. Wath Wood Boundary (1.31) – SINC. A small area and possible enclosure, Whitwell‐on‐the‐Hill of unimproved calcareous grassland on the (2.33) – Manage the whole area of earthworks Natural Environment Priority Sites northern edge of Wath Wood. Invading scrub under a stable grass sward. removed in 2000. Sward maintained by rabbit Wath Quarry (1.24) – SSSI. A quarry face of grazing. Encourage continuation of existing geological interest. Support continued management agreement (HLS). NORTH RIDGE (Zone 3C) sympathetic management through agreement Wath Wood & Hollin Hill Plantation (1.32) – SINC. with Natural England. Condition – Favourable. A large area of Ancient woodland, sections of Landscape Management Scar Wood (1.25) – SINC. One of the three best which retain a semi‐natural character with a ash woodlands in the AONB, with a rich flora. notable flora. Other sections have been replanted Maintain the contrast between the wooded scarp Sections have been replanted with non‐native with conifers. Ensure retention of native slope and open dip slope, reinforce the framework of species. Two areas of young sycamore plantation broadleaved woodland and encourage restoration hedges and encourage sensitive woodland restored to native broadleaves in 2007 & 2008. of replanted sections. management: Ensure retention of native broadleaved woodland Hollin Hill Bogs (1.33) – SINC. A relatively large and encourage restoration of replanted sections. area of spring‐fed semi‐natural alder carr of high  Discourage new isolated woodland planting Discourage extension of quarrying activity. conservation interest. Ensure retention as native proposals on northern dip slope, to retain open Grange Farm, Gilling (1.26) – SINC. A small area of broadleaved woodland. Manage invasive non‐ landscape character. unimproved calcareous grassland, including the native species (Himalayan balsam).  Encourage sensitive felling operations in terms of site of a former quarry. Encourage negotiation of Slingsby Banks Wood (1.34) – SINC. An area of oak scale and phasing, especially where visually agreement to ensure sympathetic management. woodland on an Ancient site, although originating prominent. Mill Wood (1.27) – SINC. An area of semi‐natural from replanting. Contains several recent plantings  Conserve areas of Ancient Semi‐Natural Woodland oak/birch woodland with ash on the upper slopes. of conifers. Ensure retention of native and promote appropriate forms of management. Ensure retention as native broadleaved woodland. broadleaved woodland and encourage restoration In Ancient replanted woodland, encourage greater Calf Close Wood (1.28) – SINC. An area of oak/ash of replanted sections. use of native broadleaves, especially towards woodland on an Ancient site, much of which has a Slingsby Bank Verges (1.35) – SINC. A length of prominent skylines and in association with semi‐natural appearance although some areas species‐rich calcareous grassland on a roadside parklands. originate from planting. Ensure retention of native verge. Encourage continuation of sympathetic  Promote the retention, restoration and broadleaved woodland and encourage restoration management. sympathetic management of hedges, particularly of replanted sections. Slingsby Disused Quarry (1.36) – SINC. those in the most visible locations and those Horse Coppice (1.29) – SINC. An area of mainly Unimproved and semi‐improved calcareous associated with the remnant strip field systems mature oak woodland on an Ancient site, although grassland on an old quarry site. Invading scrub near Swinton, Easthorpe, Barton‐le‐Street, probably originates from planting. Hazel partially cleared in 2007. Encourage continuation of Slingsby and Hovingham. re‐coppiced in 2000. Ensure retention as native sympathetic grassland management.  Conserve historic linear field pattern and network broadleaved woodland. Coneysthorpe Banks Wood (1.37) – SINC. A large of ancient trackways. Disused Quarry at Wath (1.30) – SINC. An area of plantation of mainly larch, sycamore and Norway calcareous grassland in a disused quarry. Carry out spruce on an Ancient site. Ensure retention of

native broadleaved woodland and encourage Linear dyke, Coneysthorpe Banks Wood (2.34) – Field systems, Easthorpe Hall (2.46) – Manage the continuing restoration of replanted sections. SM. Vulnerable. Control tree & plant growth and whole area of earthworks under a stable grass Amotherby Lane (1.38) – SINC. A small patch of bracken. Establish a benign vegetation cover. sward. calcareous grassland containing knapweed Round barrow, Hovingham (2.35) – SM. Field systems, Hildenley Hall Estate (2.47) – broomrape, within an area of scrub. Rabbit fenced Vulnerable. Reduce impact of arable clipping. Manage the whole area of earthworks under a in 1998 and cut rotationally. Greater knapweed Encourage continuation of existing management stable grass sward. planted in 2012, to augment natural population. agreements (EH & HLS) to safeguard interest. Limekiln, Kitscrew Wood (2.48) – Encourage Encourage continuation of existing management Round barrows, Hovingham High Wood (2.36) – control of scrub and consolidation works as to safeguard interest. SM. At Risk & Vulnerable. Control tree & scrub necessary. Hildenley Top Reservoir (1.39) – SINC. Species‐rich growth and bracken. Reduce impact of forestry. Limekiln and bridge, Hildenley Wood (2.49) – calcareous grassland on a covered reservoir. Establish a benign vegetation cover. Scrub and trees removed from limekiln in 2010. Managed by Yorkshire Water and generally cut Round barrows, Hovingham South Wood (2.37) – Keep structures clear of vegetation, survey area to sympathetically. Encourage continuation of SM. At Risk & Low/Not at Risk. Control bracken check for other features and prepare management existing management. and reduce impact of forestry. Establish a benign plan. Broughton Lane (1.40) – SINC. Species‐rich verges vegetation cover. Limekiln, Scar Wood (2.50) – Trees removed 2006. along a green lane, containing a significant Linear dyke, Fryton & Slingsby Banks Wood (2.38) Front wall consolidated and re‐built in 2011. population of knapweed broomrape. Encourage – SM. Vulnerable. Control tree & scrub growth and Monitor condition. sympathetic management by gypsy pony grazier, bracken. Establish a benign vegetation cover. Cropmark complex of square barrows, double‐ to safeguard interest. Round barrows, Fryton East & West Woods (2.39) ditched trackway and enclosures, Cawton (2.51) – Cawton Bank (1.41) – An area of semi‐improved – SM. Vulnerable. Control tree & scrub growth and Seek to improve condition within an agricultural neutral grassland on a steep bank. Fenced in 2003 reduce impact of forestry. Establish a benign regime. and grazing by Exmoor ponies introduced. vegetation cover. Orchard, Slingsby (2.52) – Historic orchard, Encourage continuation of existing management Round barrow & cross dyke, Scarrish Wood (2.40) containing many old species of apple tree. agreement (HLS) to safeguard and maintain – SM. Vulnerable. Reduce impact of forestry. Encourage implementation of management plan. interest. Control bracken and establish a benign vegetation Limekiln, Hovingham Spa (2.53) – Control scrub cover. growth and clear tipped debris to establish how Historic Environment Priority Sites Cross dyke, Coneysthorpe Banks Wood (2.41) – much of original structure remains. SM. Low/Not at Risk. High priority area within the arable land of the scarp Round barrows, Easthorpe (2.42) – SM. At Risk. Encourage the preparation and implementation of slope, with many nationally important cropmarks of Reduce impact of arable ploughing. Establish a management plans that identify opportunities for prehistoric land use, both scheduled and benign vegetation cover. conserving, enhancing and restoring elements of the unscheduled, needing further investigation and Cropmarks of ancient trackways and settlements, historic landscape: conservation. Initiate a programme of work to Barton and Slingsby Heights (2.43) – Seek to characterise the type and extent of remains as well as improve condition within an agricultural regime. Hovingham Park (2.54) degree of preservation. Use as the basis for advising Probable Roman camp, Diana Hill (2.44) – Seek to Swinton Grange (2.55) on programmes of management to fully protect improve condition within an agricultural regime. important features. Moated site, Wath (2.45) – Carry out further investigation to assess historic value.

CAULKLEYS BANK (Zone 3D) Manage tree canopy to benefit river ecosystem Encourage the implementation of the management and manage invasive non‐native species (mink, plan to conserve, enhance and restore elements of Landscape Management Himalayan balsam). the historic landscape: Caulkleys Bank (1.43) – SINC. Species‐rich Strengthen the framework of hedges and seek unimproved calcareous pasture on a steep hillside. Nunnington Hall (2.62) – RPG. Not at Risk opportunities to extend woodland and tree cover Encourage continuation of sympathetic while retaining the essentially open character of the management and negotiation of new agreement Recreation Priority Sites dip slope: (HLS). Caulkleys Wood (1.44) – SINC. A calcareous ash Caulkleys Bank (3.8) – A popular gravelled  In existing woodlands, encourage sympathetic woodland on an escarpment, parts of which have roadside lay‐by, giving panoramic views over the felling operations in terms of scale and phasing, been replanted with non‐native species. Ensure Vale of Pickering. Provides access to well‐used especially where visually prominent. retention of native broadleaved woodland and Public Rights of Way to east and west. Encourage  Promote the retention, restoration and encourage restoration of replanted sections. appropriate maintenance to provide a level sympathetic management of hedges, particularly surface suitable for a wide range of users. those in the most visible locations and those Historic Environment Priority Sites Maintain informal provision of information and associated with the remnant strip field systems at landscape interpretation. Nunnington and near West Ness. This area has many similarities with Zone 3C, having Nunnington Hall (3.9) – 17th century manor house  Encourage planting of hedgerow trees and copses many cropmarks of prehistoric landscape features, owned by the National Trust and attracting around using native species, to reinforce landscape although none are scheduled. 60,000 visitors annually. The Hall is served by a pattern. large landscaped car park and an additional  Conserve and reinforce linear tree belts, avenues Earthworks, Stonegrave Church & adjacent (2.56) overflow car park. Monitor ability of overflow car and other parkland features. – SM. Low/Not at Risk. park to cope with peak demands.  Encourage planting of new small areas of Earthworks, East Newton Hall (2.57) – Encourage Nunnington (3.10) – A large informal parking area broadleaved or mixed woodland towards the foot continuation of existing management agreement on the site of former sawmill. Monitor current ad of the dip slope, in locations that do not interrupt (ELS) to safeguard interest. hoc usage. long‐distance views. Cropmarks of prehistoric/Roman enclosures and trackways, Caulkleys Bank (2.58) – Seek to Natural Environment Priority Sites improve condition within an agricultural regime. VALE OF YORK (Zone 4A) 2/3 limekilns, Limekiln Plantation (2.59) – Keep Nunnington Cutting & Quarries (1.42) – SSSI. Two structures clear of vegetation, survey area to Landscape Management disused quarries and an adjacent railway cutting of check for other features and prepare management geological interest. Support continued plan. Strengthen the landscape framework by restoration of sympathetic management through agreement Limekiln, Quarry Plantation (2.60) – Trees hedges, hedgerow trees and copses while retaining with Natural England. Condition – Favourable. removed 2004 & 2006. Encourage continued the contrast with more heavily wooded areas to the River Rye, Helmsley Bridge to West Ness (1.16) – control of scrub and consolidation works as north and south: SINC. A stretch of ‘natural’ river, the banks of necessary. which support a varied flora and fauna. Discourage Cropmarks of probable Iron Age square barrow  Encourage planting of hedgerow trees and copses management practices that would damage or cemetery, Caulkleys Bank (2.61) – Seek to using native species, to reinforce landscape pollute the river system and associated habitats. improve condition within an agricultural regime. pattern.

 Promote the retention, restoration and VALE OF PICKERING (Zone 4B) Historic Environment Priority Sites sympathetic management of hedges, particularly those in the most visible locations. Landscape Management Two areas of cropmarks of prehistoric enclosures at  Encourage planting of new small areas of Hovingham Carrs and north of Mill Holm Plantation broadleaved or mixed woodland. Strengthen the landscape framework by restoration of would be suitable for exploring options to remove  Promote sympathetic management of hedges, hedgerow trees and copses while retaining from cultivation, reduce plough depth or similar watercourses to enhance their visual and wildlife the contrast with more heavily wooded slopes to the options. value. Encourage retention of semi‐natural north and south: vegetation on remaining sections of disused Cross in Churchyard, Gilling (2.64) – SM. railway.  Encourage planting of hedgerow trees and copses Vulnerable. Consolidate to prevent collapse.  Work with the North York Moors National Park to using native species, to reinforce existing develop integrated cross‐boundary landscape pattern. habitat/landscape corridors.  Promote the retention, restoration and CRAYKE (Zone 4C) sympathetic management of hedges, particularly Natural Environment Priority Sites those in the most visible locations and those Landscape Management associated with the remnant strip field systems at Foxfoot Hay (1.45) – SINC. A wide ditch with semi‐ Ampleforth, Stonegrave and Hovingham. Retain and enhance the strong hedge and hedgerow natural marginal vegetation. Encourage  Encourage planting of new small areas of tree pattern and encourage new areas of small‐scale continuation of existing management agreement broadleaved or mixed woodland. woodland: (HLS) on adjacent land.  Promote sympathetic management of Thorpe Grange (1.46) – SINC. An area of neutral watercourses to enhance their visual and wildlife  Promote the retention, restoration and grassland with patches of scrub, on a disused value. sympathetic management of hedges, particularly railway. Fenced in 2004, to allow introduction of those in the most visible locations and those conservation grazing. Encourage continuation of Natural Environment Priority Sites associated with the extensive remnant strip field sympathetic management. system at Crayke. Thorpe Grange (1.46) – SINC. An area of neutral  Encourage planting of hedgerow trees and copses Historic Environment Priority Sites grassland with patches of scrub, on a disused using native species, to reinforce existing pattern. railway. Fenced in 2004, to allow introduction of  Encourage new small‐scale plantations using Where pockets of ridge and furrow survive, retain the conservation grazing. Encourage continuation of native species or mixtures. whole area under a stable grass sward. sympathetic management.  Promote sympathetic management of Where cropmark features of prehistoric date have Cawton Fens (1.47) – SINC. Two areas of watercourses to enhance their visual and wildlife been identified, explore options to remove from calcareous fen, abandoned as arable land in 1985. value. cultivation, reduce plough depth or similar options. Eastern area fenced in 2003 and grazing by Exmoor ponies introduced. Encourage Historic Environment Priority Sites Monastic precinct and water management continuation of existing management agreement earthworks, Byland Abbey (2.108) – SM. Low/Not at (HLS) to safeguard interest. Where pockets of ridge and furrow survive, Risk. Reduce erosion by stock. particularly around Crayke Manor and Crayke Castle, retain the whole area under a stable grass sward.

Where cropmark features of prehistoric date have support invertebrate populations of County Historic Environment Priority Sites been identified, explore options to remove from importance. Encourage retention and appropriate cultivation, reduce plough depth or similar options. management of veteran trees wherever possible. Although this Zone already has considerable Castle Howard Great Lake (1.49) – SINC. A protection due to the inclusion of Castle Howard and Crayke Castle (2.66) – SM. Low/Not at Risk. Reduce wetland of ornithological interest, particularly for its grounds in the Register of Parks and Gardens, this impact of animal burrowing. wintering wildfowl and passage birds. Encourage should not hinder greater understanding of the preparation of management plan, to maximise complexity of the landscape, which includes much conservation interest and define future priorities. earlier and pre‐parkland features such as the round CASTLE HOWARD BASIN (Zone 5) Discourage practices that would damage or pollute barrow in The Avenue. Conservation of such aquatic habitats. complementary features is needed. Landscape Management Brandrith Wood (1.50) – SINC. An oak woodland, mostly on an Ancient site but probably originating Initiate further survey of historic structures and Conserve and enhance the integrity of the historic from plantation. Areas have been replanted with landscape features, including veteran trees, to explore designed landscape: non‐native species. Ensure retention of native the detailed chronology of the landscape. Encourage broadleaved woodland and encourage restoration enhanced or continued high‐quality management  Continue to update and implement the landscape of replanted sections. measures, and encourage greater public appreciation restoration and management plan, to safeguard Castle Howard Terrace, Temple and New River of the historic landscape. the integrity of the historic landscape. (1.51) – SINC. A complex of mown, improved and  Where appropriate, maintain and restore unimproved grassland, a landscaped pond and an Round barrow, Castle Howard Avenue (2.67) – landscape features associated with former area of mire. Assess conservation management SM. Low/Not at Risk. parkland, e.g. parkland trees, walls and avenues. priorities. Round barrow, Welburn (2.68) – SM. Low/Not at  Discourage new woodland planting proposals that Gillylees and Pretty Woods (1.52) – SINC. A large Risk. Reduce impact of arable clipping. Encourage would detract from the landscape character of the woodland complex with a mosaic of habitat types continuation of sympathetic management historic parkland. Encourage retention of strong including areas of Ancient woodland, although agreement (ELS) to safeguard interest. broadleaved woodland character through long‐ much replanted with non‐native species. Ensure Round barrow, Pretty Wood (2.69) – SM. term conversion of conifer plantations. retention of native broadleaved woodland and Vulnerable. Reduce impact of forestry.  In the outer basin, promote the retention, encourage restoration of replanted sections. Ice House, Castle Howard (2.70) – Monitor restoration and sympathetic management of Nova Scotia (1.53) – SINC. A large mainly semi‐ condition. existing hedges, particularly those associated with natural secondary woodland of ash and birch with Medieval ridge and furrow field systems, the remnant strip field systems near Coneysthorpe an interesting flora. Some sections have been Coneysthorpe (2.71) – There are indications that and Easthorpe, and encourage planting of replanted with conifers. Ensure retention of native these may have been deliberately incorporated hedgerow trees. broadleaved woodland and encourage restoration into the park. Manage the whole area of of replanted sections. earthworks under a stable grass sward. Natural Environment Priority Sites Horse Close Rush (1.54) – SINC. A plantation of Parish boundary, Brick Kiln Wood (2.72) – This oak, beech and sycamore with high invertebrate survives as an upstanding earthwork. Seek to Castle Howard Avenue and Park (1.48) – SINC. value, on an Ancient site. Ensure retention of maintain visibility and prevent damage. The older parts of the Avenue and the car park native broadleaved woodland and encourage Mill, Todd Wood (2.73) – Trees and scrub contain many trees that are now of a considerable restoration of replanted sections. removed in 2000 & 2005. Remains of buildings age. Survey work in 2003 confirmed that these consolidated in 2002. A number of associated

structures and the mill race also identified and forward, encourage sensitive restoration of the  Conserve areas of Ancient Semi‐Natural Woodland suitable for survey. Encourage continued scrub former car park site and appropriate management and promote appropriate forms of management. control, building restoration where appropriate, of trees to ensure continued views of house/lake. In Ancient replanted woodland, encourage greater management of ruined features and appropriate Consider scope for the provision of AONB use of native broadleaves. public interpretation. information.  Try to diversify pure conifer plantations with Castle Howard (3.12) – The historic house and broadleaved planting, natural regeneration and Encourage the continued implementation of the parkland of Castle Howard attracts around open space on woodland edges, rides, streamsides management plan to conserve, enhance and restore 215,000 visitors a year and is easily the most and in positions overlooked by higher ground. elements of the historic landscape: popular site within the AONB. Served by a large  In more extensive woodland blocks, encourage car park with capacity for several hundred sympathetic felling operations in terms of scale Castle Howard (2.74) – RPG. At Risk vehicles. As the principal focal point for visitors and phasing, especially where visually prominent. within the AONB, there is considerable scope for  Encourage planting of new small to medium‐sized In liaison with owners, encourage repair of Listed the provision of information. Consider providing areas of broadleaved or mixed woodland as Buildings at Risk using grant resources available from interpretation material that helps to raise extensions of existing woods, in valley bottoms, on local authorities and Government agencies. Where awareness of the AONB and management issues lower slopes and in association with farmsteads. appropriate, explore opportunities for suitable affecting it, as well as encouraging exploration of  Promote the retention, restoration and changes of use to ensure their long‐term contribution the wider estate area. sympathetic management of hedges, particularly to the cultural heritage of the area: Sheep Walk (3.13) – Parking facilities at the crest those in the most visible locations and those of the hill were closed in 1999, due to highway associated with the remnant strip field systems at The Stray (Mock Fortifications), Castle Howard danger and vehicles blocking access tracks. These Hildenley and High Hutton. (2.75) – Grade I. were used as a base for popular walks along the  Encourage planting of hedgerow trees and copses The Pyramid, St Anne’s Hill, Castle Howard (2.76) ridge top and an informal parking area has now using native species, to strengthen landscape – Grade I. developed at the foot of the Sheep Walk hill. pattern. The Mausoleum, Castle Howard (2.77) – Grade I. Encourage provision of sensitively designed but  Conserve and enhance areas of parkland. Walls to walled garden, Castle Howard (2.78) – hard‐surfaced parking area for 3/4 cars, to  Ensure any upgrading of the A64 trunk road Grade I. maximise parking opportunity and prevent verge respects the character and high quality of the Former bone grinding mill, stables, hayloft and damage/blocking of access tracks. landscape and seek opportunities for new planting smithy, Low Gaterley (2.79) in the highway corridor.

Recreation Priority Sites CENTRAL HILLS AND VALLEYS (Zone 6) Natural Environment Priority Sites

Castle Howard Lake (3.11) – One of the most Landscape Management Horse Field, Gilling (1.55) – SSSI. A formerly popular car parks in the AONB, serving as a base unimproved hay‐meadow, now much degraded. for walks around the lake and providing one of the Maintain the balance between woodland and Support restoration management through ‘classic’ views of Castle Howard. The current car farmland, strengthen the existing framework of agreement with Natural England. Condition – park is unsurfaced and in places very eroded. hedges and hedgerow trees and promote appropriate Unfavourable, no change. Planning consent was granted in 2001 to create a forms of woodland management: Dalby Bush Fen (1.56) – SSSI. A diverse complex of new car park on the eastern side of the road but fen and wet woodland. Support continued never implemented. If new proposals come

sympathetic management through agreement to secure continuation of sympathetic grassland Historic Environment Priority Sites with Natural England. Condition – Favourable. management. Toft Wood (1.57) – SINC. An Ancient woodland Swinsey Carr (1.63) – SINC. An Ancient woodland, An important and almost continuous prehistoric and containing semi‐natural sections with a rich flora, predominantly ash, with a good flora. Ensure Roman landscape under arable cultivation on the high but the majority replanted with conifers. Ensure retention as native broadleaved woodland. ground from Scackleton westwards, which would retention of native broadleaved woodland and The Hag, Wiganthorpe Wood (1.64) – SINC. benefit from improvements within an agricultural encourage restoration of replanted sections. Ancient semi‐natural alder wood with a rich flora. regime. Initiate further archaeological survey and Mugdale and Barker Woods (1.58) – SINC. A Ensure retention as native broadleaved woodland. encourage greater public appreciation of the historic complex of Ancient woodland habitats with an Howthorpe (1.65) – SINC. Two areas of landscape. interesting flora. Some hazel coppicing carried out unimproved calcareous and marshy grassland. in 2001. Native woodland area extended by new Himalayan balsam controlled since 2008. Enclosures/field system, Potter Hill (2.81) – SM. planting on Mugdale Hill in 2002. Himalayan Encourage continuation of existing management Low/Not at Risk. Reverted to pasture in 2001. balsam control carried out in 2009. Ensure agreement (HLS) to safeguard interest. Manage Encourage continuation of existing sympathetic retention as native broadleaved woodland. invasive non‐native species (Himalayan balsam). management to safeguard interest. Control invasive non‐native species (Himalayan Terrington Moor (1.66) – SINC. A small area of Round barrows, Fryton & Hall Moors (2.82) – SM. balsam). acid fen, abandoned as arable land in 1985. At Risk & Low/Not at Risk. Reduce impact of arable Grange Bogs (1.59) – SINC. A complex of fen, Fenced in 2001 and grazing by Exmoor ponies ploughing. Encourage management to prevent unimproved pasture and marshy woodland. New introduced. Scrub control carried out in 2006. gradual deterioration. fencing installed on northern part of site in 2003 Encourage continuation of existing management Moated site & ridge and furrow, Scackleton (2.83) and grazing by Exmoor ponies introduced. agreement (HLS) to safeguard interest. – SM. At Risk. Reduce erosion by stock. Encourage continuation of sympathetic Terrington Carr (1.67) – SINC. A small area of acid Round barrow, Wiganthorpe (2.84) – SM. conservation grazing of fen and pasture. Ensure peat bog, the remnant of a much larger site Vulnerable. Control tree and scrub growth. retention of native broadleaved marshy woodland. (afforested in the 1800s). Water levels raised on Round barrows, Moor House Farm, Hovingham Bull Ings (1.60) – SINC. A complex of fen, wet southern part of site in 2000 and shallow pools (2.85) – SM. At Risk & Low/Not at Risk. Reduce grassland and unimproved pasture. New fencing created in 2001. Water levels raised on northern impact of arable ploughing and encourage installed on western part of site in 2003 and part of site in 2002. Encourage continuation of continuation of existing management agreement grazing by Exmoor ponies introduced. Encourage existing management agreement (HLS) and birch (HLS). continuation of sympathetic conservation grazing coppicing cycle to maintain open habitat. Field system, Swathgill (2.6) – Encourage of fen and pasture. Grassland adjacent to Swinsey Carr SINC (1.68) – sympathetic management of prehistoric field Coulton Fen (1.61) – SINC. A narrow strip of valley SINC. An area of semi‐improved neutral, acid and system & barrow and seek to improve condition bog mire and wet woodland. New fencing installed marshy grassland on a steep bank. Encourage within an agricultural regime. in 2003 and grazing by Exmoor ponies introduced. introduction of grassland management. Field systems, Hildenley Hall Estate (2.47) – Encourage continuation of sympathetic Fens below Coulton Mill (1.69) – SINC. Areas of Manage the whole area of earthworks under a conservation grazing and management fen and semi‐improved neutral and marshy stable grass sward. agreements where applicable (HLS). grassland along a beck. Encourage continuation of Park or parish boundary banks, Cum Hag Wood Rose Cottage Farm Meadow (1.62) – SINC. A small existing management agreement (HLS). (2.86) – These survive as upstanding earthworks. area of unimproved calcareous grassland. Seek to maintain visibility and prevent damage. Encourage negotiation of management agreement Research and survey would aid understanding.

Ridge and furrow field system, High Hutton (2.87) Encourage landowner to maintain capacity of Kirkham Park and Riverside (1.71) – SSSI. A site – Manage the whole area of earthworks under a parking area, thereby reducing parking on noted for its geomorphological interest as well as stable grass sward. adjacent verges. its complex of riverside communities including Limekiln, Maidensworth Farm (2.88) – Trees woodland, grassland, fen and marsh. Support removed 2005. Encourage continued control of continued sympathetic management through scrub and consolidation works as necessary. DERWENT GORGE (Zone 7) agreement with Natural England. Manage invasive Limekiln, Toft Hill (2.89) – Scrub removed 2001 & non‐native species (Himalayan balsam). Condition 2005. Encourage continued control of scrub and Landscape Management – 65% Favourable; 35% Unfavourable recovering. consolidation works. Mount Pleasant Quarry (1.72) – SSSI. A disused Limekiln, Stone Flint Wood (2.90) – Scrub Conserve and restore the ‘traditional’ landscape quarry face of geological interest. Support removed 2001. Monitor condition. character of broadleaved woodland, small‐scale fields continued sympathetic management through Enclosures and field system, Scackleton (2.91) – and waterside habitats: agreement with Natural England. Condition – An extensive complex of prehistoric enclosures Favourable. and field systems. Seek to improve condition in an  In existing woodlands encourage sympathetic River Derwent (1.73) – SSSI. Also of international agricultural regime. felling operations in terms of scale and phasing, importance and designated a Special Area of especially where visually prominent. Conservation (SAC). Part of an extensive river Encourage the preparation and implementation of  Conserve areas of Ancient Semi‐Natural Woodland system, considered to be one of the best British management plans which identify opportunities for and promote appropriate forms of management. examples of an unpolluted lowland river with a conserving, enhancing and restoring elements of the In Ancient replanted woodland, encourage greater ‘classic’ river profile, and supporting diverse historic landscape: use of native broadleaves. communities of aquatic flora and fauna. Address  Promote the retention, restoration and diffuse pollution issues through partnership work Wiganthorpe Hall (2.92) sympathetic management of hedges, particularly with Natural England. Condition – 2% Favourable; those associated with the extensive remnant strip 94% Unfavourable recovering; 4% Unfavourable In liaison with owners, encourage repair of Listed field system at Crambe. declining. Buildings at Risk using grant resources available from  Conserve or re‐create riverside wetland habitats Jeffry Bog (Pt) (1.74) – SINC. An area of marshy local authorities and Government agencies. Where and flood plain meadows at appropriate locations. grassland close to the Jeffry Bog SSSI. Encourage appropriate, explore opportunities for suitable  Conserve and enhance areas of parkland. continuation of existing management agreement changes of use to ensure their long‐term contribution  Ensure any upgrading of the A64 trunk road (HLS) to safeguard interest. to the cultural heritage of the area: respects the character and high quality of the Ox Carr and Ben Woods (1.75) – SINC. An Ancient landscape and seek opportunities for new planting woodland much of which has been replanted, Ice house, Wiganthorpe Hall (2.93) in the highway corridor. although semi‐natural sections remain. Ensure Moor House cow byre, stables, granary & cart retention of native broadleaved woodland and shed, Hovingham (2.94) – Granary re‐roofed 2008. Natural Environment Priority Sites encourage restoration of replanted sections. The other buildings require some attention. Hall (2.70) Ice House, Oak Wiganthorpe Cliff Wood (Pt)Hall (1.76) (2.70) – SINC. The area Jeffry Bog (1.70) – SSSI. A complex of neutral between the railway and the river is a small Recreation Priority Sites grassland, marsh and wet woodland adjacent to Ancient semi‐natural ash wood with a rich flora. the River Derwent, owned by the Yorkshire Ensure retention as native broadleaved woodland. Bell Bottom Wood (3.14) – A small informal Wildlife Trust. Condition – 48% Favourable; 52% Howsham Wood (1.77) – SINC. A large woodland gravelled lay‐by used as a base for forest walks. Unfavourable recovering. of very high conservation interest, containing the

largest area of Ancient Semi‐Natural Woodland in Moated site, Low Hutton (2.95) – SM. At Risk. changes of use to ensure their long‐term contribution the AONB. Other sections have been replanted Reduce erosion by stock. Encourage continuation to the cultural heritage of the area: with non‐native species. Encourage the of existing management agreement (HLS) to preparation and adoption of a comprehensive safeguard interest. Gate Lodges, Howsham Hall (2.102) management plan, ensure retention of native Kirkham Priory – SM & medieval village, Kirkham Folly, Howsham Hall (2.103) broadleaved woodland and encourage restoration (2.96). Low/Not at Risk. The Priory is managed by Pond Farm, Crambe (2.104) – Temporary roof of replanted sections. English Heritage but features on the north side of consolidated 2005. Trees removed 2010. Southern Sandlands Meadow (1.78) – SINC. A species‐rich the road and elsewhere around the hamlet need gable consolidated 2012. Rainwater goods unimproved hay meadow adjacent to the River to remain in sympathetic management. Manage repaired 2013. Derwent. Encourage continuation of existing the whole area of earthworks under a stable grass sympathetic management. sward. Recreation Priority Sites Adjacent to Sandlands Meadow SINC (1.79) – Roman pottery kilns, Crambeck (2.97) – SM. SINC. An area of marshy grassland and mire, Low/Not at Risk. Reduce impact of forestry. Kirkham Priory (3.15) – The scenic remains of the restored from conifer plantation from 2003 Kirkham Bridge (2.98) – SM. Vulnerable. Reduce Priory are managed by English Heritage and attract onwards. Willow cut in 2006 & 2007; Himalayan damage by vehicles. around 4,800 visitors a year. Served by an informal balsam controlled in 2006. Control willow Earthworks of medieval village, Crambe (2.99) – gravelled parking area that is generally adequate regrowth and invasive non‐native species Nationally important but unscheduled site that except at peak times. Parking area restored to (Himalayan balsam). occupies a wide area around village, including original full extent and re‐gravelled in 2010. Far Wood Close (1.80) – SINC. An area of mainly house platforms, fields, trackways and ridge and Monitor usage and ensure maintenance so as to unimproved neutral grassland adjacent to the furrow. Manage the whole area of earthworks retain capacity and reduce overspill parking on River Derwent and Howsham Wood. Encourage under a stable grass sward. Consider further adjacent road. sympathetic management. survey and encourage greater public appreciation Kirkham Bridge (3.16) – The public footpath Grassland between Jeffry Bog SINC and Kirkham of the village history. beside the river at Kirkham is very popular. The Park SSSI (1.81) – SINC. An area of semi‐improved first field through which it passes is frequently neutral grassland next to the River Derwent SSSI. Encourage the preparation and implementation of used for picnicking and the river for swimming. Encourage continuation of existing management management plans which identify opportunities for The landowner has experienced problems caused agreement (HLS) on part of site to safeguard conserving, enhancing and restoring elements of the by litter, trespass and conflict with livestock. interest, and manage invasive non‐native species historic landscape: Monitor situation. (Himalayan balsam). Badger Bank (3.17) – A small but popular informal Howsham Hall (2.100) – RPG. Not at Risk. gravelled lay‐by used as a base for walks in Historic Environment Priority Sites Encourage reversion of ploughed parkland back Howsham Wood. Local consultations in 1999 to grass and new tree planting appropriate to showed that proposed minor upgrading works A number of nationally important sites such as the design. were not supported. Area currently managed by Crambeck Roman potteries and Kirkham Priory lie in low‐key grass cutting operations. Consider this Zone. Encourage enhanced or continued high‐ In liaison with owners, encourage repair of Listed alternative options, to define parking area better quality management of monuments and monitor their Buildings at Risk using grant resources available from and prevent obstruction of adjacent access. condition. local authorities and Government agencies. Where Howsham Wood (3.18) – A large riverside wood appropriate, explore opportunities for suitable with a network of well‐used tracks. Previously owned by the Forestry Commission, the wood was

sold to a private consortium in 1996 and a management agreement concluded to safeguard public access rights. Consider opportunities for interpretation material and extending access through agreement with adjacent landowners. Howsham Bridge (3.19) – Two informal gravelled lay‐bys at either end of the bridge, used by fishermen, visitors to Howsham Mill and as a base for riverside walks. Area at eastern end fenced in 2006, to create parking area for Howsham Mill. Monitor use of site at peak periods, to evaluate the need for future action. Huttons Ambo (3.20) – A small informal tarmacked parking area used by fishermen and as a base for riverside walks. Planted willow saplings have now grown up and the unsightly sheet metal fence has been removed.

Biodiversity 2020 The UK Government’s strategy for implementing Glossary (BD2020) international and EU commitments on biodiversity in England. Prepared in 2010, it sets out the strategic Term used Definition / Explanation direction for biodiversity policy for the next decade on land (including rivers and lakes) and at sea. Affordable Housing Low cost housing for sale or rent, often from a housing Climate change The anticipated impact of modern human activity on the association, provided to meet the needs of local people global environment, leading to a rise in temperatures in who cannot afford accommodation through the open the UK, with additional environmental consequences. market. Common Agricultural European Union‐wide policy that supports agriculture Agri‐environment A generic term for schemes operated by Defra, designed to Policy (CAP) through price support, market management and measures Schemes encourage environmentally friendly farming and public to improve the agriculture industry enjoyment of the countryside. Condition monitoring Monitoring the condition of the AONB to assess changes Ancient Semi‐Natural An ancient woodland site, believed to have had continuous over time. Differs from performance monitoring that Woodland (ASNW) woodland cover since 1600 AD, composed principally of monitors completion of actions, etc within the Plan. native tree species that have not obviously been planted. Conservation Area Defined by section 69 of the Planning (Listed Buildings & Ancient tree An ‘Ancient’ tree will display many of the wildlife and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 as an area of special habitat features of a ‘veteran’ tree but is in the third and architectural or historic interest, the character or final stage of its life. It will have passed beyond full appearance of which is desirable to preserve or enhance. maturity and the crown will be reducing in size, shedding Countryside and Contains measures to improve public access to the open redundant parts and accumulating dead wood. Rights of Way (CRoW) countryside and registered common land while recognising Area of Outstanding An area designated under the National Parks and Access to Act (2000) the legitimate interests of those who own and manage the Natural Beauty the Countryside Act 1949 where the primary purpose is land concerned; it amends the law relating to rights of (AONB) the conservation and enhancement of natural beauty way; it amends the law relating to nature conservation by including flora, fauna, geology and landscape. strengthening protection for Sites of Special Scientific Biodiversity The common term for "biological diversity", the variety of Interest including tougher penalties and by providing extra life and the natural processes of which living things are a powers for the prosecution of wildlife crime; it provides a part. The term includes living organisms, the genetic basis for the conservation of biological diversity; and it differences between them and the communities in which provides for better management of Areas of Outstanding they occur. Natural Beauty, including the requirement for local Biodiversity Action A plan, programme or strategy for the conservation and authorities to produce AONB management plans every five Plans (BAPs) sustainable use of biodiversity. Biodiversity Action Plans years and places a duty on public bodies to have regard to are a key means by which the UK Government the purposes of AONB designation. commitment to the Convention on Biological Diversity at Rio de Janeiro (1992) is to be met.

Term used Definition / Explanation Highway Authority The Highways Act 1980 defines a Highway Authority as the body responsible for maintaining all highways Department for Central government body with the aim of sustainable maintainable at public expense and keeping them free of Environment, Food development, which means a better quality of life for obstruction, including responsibility for public rights of and Rural Affairs everyone, now and for generations to come, including: a way. The Highway Authority in the Howardian Hills is (Defra) better environment at home and internationally, and North Yorkshire County Council. sustainable use of natural resources; economic prosperity Heritage asset A building, monument, site, place, area or landscape through sustainable farming, fishing, food, water and identified as having a degree of significance meriting other industries that meet consumers' requirements; consideration in planning decisions, because of its heritage thriving economies and communities in rural areas and a interest. Heritage assets include both designated heritage countryside for all to enjoy. assets and also assets identified by the local planning Ecosystems services Can be simply described as the benefits people obtain authority (including via local listing). from ecosystems. These include: provisioning services (food and water); regulating services (flood and disease Historic environment All aspects of the environment resulting from the control); cultural services (such as spiritual and cultural interaction between people and places through time, benefits); and supporting services (such as nutrient cycling including all surviving physical remains of past human that maintains conditions for life on Earth). activity, whether visible, buried or submerged, and Geomorphology The branch of physical geography which deals with the landscaped and planted or managed flora. form of the earth, the general configuration of its surface Historic Parks and Parks and Gardens containing historic features dating from and the distribution of land and water etc. together with Gardens 1939 or earlier and Registered by English Heritage in three the natural processes that contribute to the evolution of Grades, as with historic buildings. landscapes. Invasive non‐native Plant or animal species that has either been transported Geodiversity The variety of rocks, minerals, fossils, soils, landforms and species accidentally through human activity, or purposefully natural processes. introduced, from their historically known native ranges Green infrastructure A network of multi‐functional green space, both new and into new ecosystems where they did not evolve, and which existing, both rural and urban, which supports the natural subsequently have adverse impacts on native flora and and ecological processes and is integral to the health and fauna. quality of life of sustainable communities. Green Landscape An area, as perceived by people, whose character is the Infrastructure includes parks, open spaces, playing fields, result of the action and interaction of natural and/or woodlands, allotments and private gardens. human factors. Habitat A place in which a particular plant or animal lives, or the Landscape Non‐statutory document setting out the special qualities wider interaction of plants and animals that are found Assessment of the landscape, tracing its evolution and forces for together. change.

Term used Definition / Explanation Local Nature Partnerships of a broad range of local organisations, Partnership (LNP) businesses and people who aim to manage and bring Landscape Character A distinct, recognisable and consistent pattern of elements about improvements in their local natural environment. in the landscape that makes one landscape different from Local Planning The Local Authority, normally the local borough or district another, rather than better or worse. Authority (LPA) council, which is empowered by law to exercise planning Landscape Character A unique individual geographical area in which landscape functions. Area types occur, which share generic characteristics with other Local Transport Plan A plan produced by the Highway Authority setting out areas of the same type but have their own particular future proposals for transport infrastructure over the identity. following 5 years and attracting possible Government Landscape character The process of identifying and describing variation in the funding. assessment (LCA) character of the landscape, and using this information to National Character Developed by Natural England, these divide England into assist in managing change. The assessment seeks to Area (NCA) 159 distinct natural areas. Each is defined by a unique identify and explain the unique combination of elements combination of landscape, biodiversity, geodiversity and and features that make landscapes distinctive. The process cultural and economic activity. Their boundaries follow results in the production of a Landscape Character natural lines in the landscape rather than administrative Assessment (also shortened to LCA). boundaries, making them a good decision‐making Landscape Feature A prominent eye‐catching element, e.g. wooded hill top or framework for the natural environment. church spire. Natural England The non‐departmental public body of the UK government Listed Building A building of architectural or historical importance, graded responsible for ensuring that England's natural according to its merit (I, II*, II) and subject to special environment, including its land, flora and fauna, controls. freshwater and marine environments, geology and soils, Local Authority An administrative unit of local government, specifically any are protected and improved. It also has a responsibility to body listed in section 270 of the Local Government Act help people enjoy, understand and access the natural 1972 or section 21(1) of the Local Government and environment. Housing Act 1989. National Planning Published by the Department of Communities and Local Local Distinctiveness Essentially the sum of points of connection between the Policy Framework Government in March 2012 for use in England. A 65 page place and the person. It is an expression of how (NPPF) document, with a 27 page Technical Guidance appendix, it landscapes are valued as places which have a replaced nearly thirty Planning Policy Statements (PPS) and distinctiveness and significance that communities cherish Planning Policy Guidance Notes (PPG) running to over as their own and seek to find alternatives to the spread of 1300 pages. uniformity in the countryside. Parkland A large piece of ground usually comprising woodland, Local Enterprise Partnerships between local authorities and businesses. pasture and formal gardens, currently or once attached to Partnership (LEP) They aim to determine local economic priorities and a country house or mansion. undertake activities to drive economic growth and create Permanent pasture Any pasture composed of perennial or self‐seeding annual jobs. plants kept indefinitely for grazing.

Term used Definition / Explanation Site of Special Area identified by Natural England under the National Scientific Interest Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 for Permissive path A route where the landowner has granted permission for (SSSI) protection by reason of the rarity of its nature public use, usually for foot access but occasionally for conservation, wildlife features or geological interest. horse riders, but which is not dedicated as a public right of Sites and Monument A database of sites of archaeological interest and potential way. Record (SMR) within a particular area, usually a county. Planted Ancient Ancient Woodland Sites in which the former tree cover has Special Area of Site designated according to the Habitats Directive Woodland Sites been replaced, often with non‐native trees. PAWS often Conservation (SAC) 93/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and (PAWS) retain important ancient woodland features including wild fauna and flora. SAC defines a site of Community characteristic flora, fauna and archaeology. Importance designated by member states through a Priority Habitats and Habitats and species listed under Section 41 of the NERC statutory, administrative and/or contractual act, where the Species Act 2006. necessary conservation measures are applied for the Public Right of Way A route where the public has a right to walk, and in some maintenance or restoration, at a favourable conservation (PRoW) cases ride horses, bicycles, motorcycles, wheeled carriages status, of the natural habitats and/or the populations of or drive motor vehicles which is designated either a the species for which the site is designated. All SACs in the footpath, a bridleway, Restricted Byway, Carriage or Cart UK are SSSIs. Road used mainly as a Footpath or Bridleway or a byway Sites of Importance A site which is important due to the presence of notable open to all traffic (BOAT). These are shown on the for Nature species or an important habitat. SINCs form part of a wider ‘Definitive Map’ held be the Highway Authority. A route Conservation (SINC) national network of non‐statutory locally valued wildlife may also have higher rights eg. be a County Road or other sites and are generally administered by local authorities in Highway; or simply be incorrectly signed or waymarked partnership with conservation organisations. and/or have private rights of access. Special Qualities The unique set of characteristic features/landscape Public Transport Methods of transporting passengers including buses, trains character for which an area of countryside is deemed and taxis but not car passengers. worthy of designation as an AONB or National Park. The Renewable energy Energy generated from resources that are non‐fossil fuels, Special Qualities of the Howardian Hills AONB are fully and are unlimited, rapidly replenished or naturally described on p8 of the Management Plan. renewable such as wind, water, sun, wave and refuse. Thus the technology includes wind turbines, wave generators, biofuels, solar power, wood fuel burners and boilers etc. Scheduled Monument A structure identified by English Heritage for protection (SAM) under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979. Setting The surroundings in which a valued area, site, building or feature is experienced. Its extent is not fixed and may change as the asset and its surroundings evolve.

Term used Definition / Explanation Utilities Organisations performing a public service i.e. Water, gas, electricity etc. Statutory Undertaker Statutory undertakers are organisations authorised by Veteran Tree A 'veteran’ tree is usually in the second or mature stage of statute or licensed by central government to perform its life, generally with a full crown but also having various public undertakings. Section 98 of the important wildlife and habitat features such as hollowing Environmental Protection Act 1990 defines a statutory or associated decay fungi, holes, wounds and large dead undertaker as any person authorised by any enactment to branches. The term ‘veteran’ generally refers to old trees carry out any railway, light railway, tramway, road but can also include younger, middle aged trees where transport, canal, inland navigation, dock, harbour or pier premature aging characteristics are present. undertaking or any relevant airport operator. Village Design A document produced by a community to identify local The New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 defines as Statement character and set out design guidance for new Statutory Undertakers all utilities namely electricity, gas, development. water, telephone, cable telephone, television and other telecommunications companies. Sustainable The widely used definition is "Development that meets the Development needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs". Tranquillity Composite feature which seeks to characterise elements of wildness, solitude, peace and quiet, relating principally to low levels of built development, traffic, noise and artificial lighting.

Produced on behalf of North Yorkshire County Council, Ryedale District Council and Hambleton District Council by:

HOWARDIAN HILLS AONB JOINT ADVISORY COMMITTEE

The Mews, Wath Court, Hovingham, York. YO62 4NN