Shropshire is set to welcome the man reviewing the UK’s national parks next year.
Writer Julian Glover has indicated he would like to visit the Shropshire Hills in the spring as part of his work in writing the Glover Review into areas of outstanding natural beauty, and national parks.
The review was announced by the environment secretary Michael Gove MP in May and aims to ensure designated landscapes are fit for the future.
The visit will be discussed by members of the Shropshire Hills AONB Partnership when they meet next Tuesday.
Phil Holden, partnership manager, said: “The Glover Review of designated landscapes is under way, and panel members have visited a number of AONBs and national parks.
“We have invited Julian Glover to visit, and Defra have responded saying he is interested in doing this in the spring.”
The review aims to provide a 25-year plan and will look at the case for extending and creating ANOBs and national parks, financing, and how well they support communities.
It will also look at improving the governance of the sites and interaction with other national assets and how to build in existing plans.
A written response to the review from the Shropshire partnership will begin to take shape during next week’s meeting. It is anticipated it will be ready for submission in December.
Mr Holden continued: “The National Association of AONBs has contracted some support from an experienced professional advocate and campaigner to help guide its actions around the review.
“Following the lead officers’ meeting in September, a draft ‘prospectus’ is to be drawn up.”
The Shropshire Hills includes features a range of peaks including Stiperstones, the Lond Mynd and the Wrekin.
When the review was launched, Mr Gove said: “The creation of national parks almost 70 years ago changed the way we view our precious landscapes – helping us all access and enjoy our natural world.
“Amid a growing population, changes in technology, and a decline in certain habitats, the time is right for us to look afresh at these landscapes.
“We want to make sure they are not only conserved, but enhanced for the next generation.”
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