Friends of the Lake District has responded to Natural England's Draft Policy on Protected Landscapes which covers National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and Heritage Coasts. Natural England is the body that advises the government on the countryside. The deadline for responses was 5 October 2009.

This is part of a process that might lead to an extension of the boundaries of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the Lake District National Park. The draft policy will also consider whether the Orton Fells area should become an AONB or be part of an extension to the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

The changes we recommended to the draft policies statement were:

* improving connections between Natural England's focus on natural resources or 'eco-system services' and landscape features, wildlife habitats and natural beauty; and

* strengthening the role of protected areas in delivering sustainable development and their wider benefits to our quality of life - including issues of health, exercise, well-being/ de-stressing, connecting with nature and experiencing tranquillity.

If you would like a copy of our response please email policy officer Jack Ellerby This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it