Fresh report reveals English landscape is worth £20bn annually to the economy

A new report has revealed that England's premium landscapes contribute in excess of £20 billion annually to the economy. The recent publication, So much more than the view... via England's Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and National Parks, showcases the wide range of benefits these iconic and exceptional areas provide to our society. AONBs and National Parks account for a quarter of England, with more than two thirds of people in England living within just thirty minutes travel of at least one site. What’s more is that annually, these sites see over 260 million people visit them, which accounts for spending in excess of £6bn, in turn supporting thousands of jobs and more than 85,000 businesses. Environment Minister Rory Stewart said: "Our British landscapes are among the most beautiful and precious in the world. And such land remains central to the British imagination, to our souls and to our identity. "We would miss such landscapes profoundly if they were gone. We have a deep obligation to protect this land, its farms and its communities. "This report also reminds us that safeguarding our countryside can also generate economic value, how our protected landscapes are increasingly rare in a rapidly developing world and just how precious they are to visitors and residents. However, while we celebrate the fact that they have also to potential to bring prosperity, we must never reduce such places simply to their economic value – they are so much more than that." The report additionally highlights the vital work that the National Park Authorities, AONB Partnerships and Conservation Boards carry out with local residents and businesses alike in order to help keep these places special. The organisations work with them to maintain thriving, living landscapes that allow for natural assets to be conserved and enhanced. Furthermore, it provides continued efforts to offer people, businesses and communities to prosper, now and in the future. If you are looking for somewhere to stay near Exmoor, holiday cottage accommodation here at Smythen Farm is just a short drive away while also close to award-winning beaches. Image: Peter Pearson under Creative Commons.