Council welcomes milestone for proposed Surrey Hills National Landscape extension
Tandridge District Council has welcomed a significant milestone in the process to extend the Surrey Hills National Landscape, with Natural England formally submitting its proposal to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
If approved by the government, the proposal would increase the size of the Surrey Hills National Landscape by 129km², making it almost a third larger than it is today.
The Surrey Hills is one of Surrey’s most valued landscapes with parts of this National Landscape lying within the district. Many residents and visitors enjoy its countryside, walking routes and wildlife habitats. If approved, the proposed extension would help safeguard more of these landscapes for future generations.
Leader of Tandridge District Council, Councillor Catherine Sayer, said: "I am delighted this proposed extension has been submitted to the government and hope for early designation. The Surrey Hills are one of Tandridge's cherished landscapes, loved not only by Tandridge residents but by the many visitors and walkers who come to enjoy the scenic beauty, wildlife and sense of tranquillity.
Extending the National Landscape will help protect more of this special place, ensuring that future generations can experience and enjoy it in the same way we do today. Designation would also support nature recovery, climate resilience, public health and wellbeing, and local tourism."
The proposal has not yet been approved and the final decision rests with the Secretary of State, who may confirm, amend or refuse the designation order. The proposed extension areas will not gain National Landscape status unless and until the government formally approves the proposal.
In the Tandridge District, the proposed extension includes: