Dec 2010 - South Worcestershire Development Plan

SOUTH WORCESTERSHIRE ANNUAL MONITORING REPORT 201093Figure 20: Condition of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) inSouth Worcestershire 2009/10 by percentage.Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty8.40 An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a preciouslandscape whose distinctive character and natural beauty are sooutstanding that it is in the nation's interest to safeguard them.8.41 There are 40 AONBs in England and Wales (35 wholly in England, 4wholly in Wales and 1 which straddles the border). Created by thelegislation of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act of1949, AONBs represent 18% of the Finest Countryside in England andWales. Their care has been entrusted to the local authorities,organisations, community groups and the individuals who live and workwithin them or who value them.8.42 Each AONB has been designated for special attention by reason oftheir high qualities. These include their flora, fauna, historical andcultural associations as well as scenic views. AONB landscapes rangefrom rugged coastline to water meadows to gentle downland andupland moors.Malvern Hills AONB8.43 It is situated between the County of Herefordshire to the west andMalvern Hills District, Worcestershire to the east. The distinctive,