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Key Features of the Malvern Hills AONB |
 LandscapeThe key landscape characteristics of the AONB are well documented thanks to Landscape Character Assessments and Historic Landscape Characterisations produced by local authorities in the area. 10 Landscape Character Types and 30 Landscape Description Units (LDUs) have been identified within the AONB. View list of Special Features View Management Plan Summary Sheet |
 BiodiversityThe AONB is made up of many distinct habitat types which support a wide diversity of flora and fauna. The area supports UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) priority habitats and species as well as those identified as being of local importance. The AONB contains 15 Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) and over 60 Special Wildlife sites. View list of Special Features View Management Plan Summary Sheet |
Geodiversity The striking nature of the scenery in the AONB is ultimately dependent on the rocks that lie beneath the ground surface. The shape and orientation of these rocks and the range of mechanical and chemical properties they possess is variable, complex and fascinating. Geodiversity Action Plans help to identify, conserve, enhance and monitor this resource. View list of Special Features View Management Plan Summary Sheet |
Historic Environment The AONB contains a large number and variety of heritage assets such as iconic hill forts, field patterns and listed buildings. These features make a vital and distinctive contribution to the character of the area. Some important heritage assets are designated but many others receive no statutory protection. View list of Special Features View Management Plan Summary Sheet |
Farming and Forestry Farming and forestry represent the significant forms of land use within the AONB, providing valuable jobs and income. Landowners, farmers and tenants are the principal agents involved in managing this land. Permanent grassland accounts for more than 50% of the AONB by area whilst approximately 20% of the AONB is covered by woodland. View list of Special Features View Management Plan Summary Sheet |
Community - Living and Working Human activity has contributed significantly to the natural beauty of the AONB. The distinctive character of the area today is as much about the communities who live there as it is the physical form of its landscape. The AONB is home to around 12,000 people with many attracted to the area by its high quality environment. View list of Special Features View Management Plan Summary Sheet |
Built Development Development is inevitable and necessary in the AONB. However, a framework is needed to manage this change effectively and sympathetically. Key elements in this framework include national Planning Policy Statements and Local Development Frameworks. The AONB Management Plan sets out specific statements and objectives that help to maintain the integrity of the AONB. View list of Special Features View Management Plan Summary Sheet |
Tourism, Recreation and Access Around 1.25 million visitors come to the AONB each year to undertake recreational pursuits and to enjoy its special qualities. Tourism and recreation make a significant contribution to the local economy, and the outdoor environment of the AONB acts as an important resource to help people stay fit and healthy. View list of Special Features View Management Plan Summary Sheet |
Transport The AONB is easily accessed from major roads such as the M5 and M50 motorways but it also contains a significant network of rural lanes. Regular trains and buses serve the area. A key objective is to promote more sustainable forms of transport which have less of an impact on the special qualities of the area. View list of Special Features View Management Plan Summary Sheet |
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© Malvern Hills AONB 2011 | Site map | Site by Publicity Project
Malvern Hills AONB Partnership, Malvern Hills AONB Office, Manor House, Grange Road, Malvern, Worcestershire WR14 3EY
Email: aonb@worcestershire.gov.uk Tel: 01684 560616 Fax: 01684 577457
