North Lincolnshire Council is calling on the Government to finally deliver long-promised protection for the northern Lincolnshire Wolds after years of delay.
In 2020, Natural England formally registered a proposal to extend the boundary of the Lincolnshire Wolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) – to include the nationally important landscape in North Lincolnshire.
Despite the commitment to expand protected landscapes, no progress has been made now the council is urging ministers to make the extension a priority.
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “The northern Lincolnshire Wolds deserve the same recognition and protection as the rest of this outstanding landscape.
“Five years ago this proposal was accepted for consideration, yet today local communities are still waiting for action – we hear Government speak repeatedly about protecting nature, improving access to the countryside and supporting rural areas. Now is the time to turn those ambitions into reality.
“This isn’t simply about changing a boundary. It’s about recognising an exceptional landscape, protecting wildlife, supporting sustainable tourism and ensuring future generations can enjoy this special part of North Lincolnshire.”
The renewed call comes as North Lincolnshire continues to lead major environmental initiatives, including work with partners to secure biosphere status for the Humberhead Levels – which includes the Isle of Axholme.
Cllr Waltham added: “We said we’d protect these landscapes and we’re getting on with it, whether that’s restoring habitats, planting trees or working towards international recognition through the Humberhead Levels Biosphere – now the Government needs to play its part for the Wolds.
“Extending the Lincolnshire Wolds would strengthen nature recovery, support local businesses and tourism, and give this nationally important landscape the protection it deserves.
“We’ve waited long enough. It’s time to get on with it.”