Minister recognises Co Down's outstanding beauty

Environment Minister Edwin Poots today announced his intention to designate the Strangford and Lecale region of Co Down as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Speaking on a visit to Tyrella beach, Mr Poots said: “From the distinctive landmark of Scrabo to the historic town of Downpatrick and beyond lies a varied and beautiful coastline and landscape of which we should be very proud. I firmly believe this is worthy recognition as an AONB”.

During the visit he met representatives of Lecale Conservation and Down District Council. Each organisation had made clear their view that it was crucial to include the area around Tyrella and Minerstown in the new AONB.

The Minister said: “The enthusiasm of local people for the AONB is very heartening and all views expressed during the consultation have been considered. I trust that this is a sign that you will continue to work together to protect the area and to enable people to enjoy places like the beach here at Tyrella.”

The new designation will promote the conservation of the features and qualities that make this landscape so beautiful. It will help improve residents’ and visitors’ enjoyment and awareness of the area.

A notice of the proposed Designation Order has been placed in the Belfast Gazette and the designation is expected to be completed by the summer. A public celebration of the new AONB is planned for later this year.

Notes to editors:

1. Lecale Coast AONB was designated in 1967 and Strangford Lough AONB in 1972 under the Amenity Lands Act 1965. In 1985 the legislation was updated (Nature Conservation and Amenity Lands Order 1985) which (under Article 14) allowed the Department to designate an AONB but also to formulate proposals for the promotion and protection of that area. The Department has gradually been re-designating the original suite of AONBs under the more recent legislation.
2. The Department formulated a draft proposal which included all of the original area of Strangford, most of Lecale and some additional lands that had not previously been designated. The draft proposal was circulated for comment during 2009. In response to the comments received, the draft proposals have been amended to include the original Lecale designation in the new AONB.
3. The legal Designation Order will now be made in accordance with the procedure outlined in the legislation. Following designation, the Department will work towards identifying a suitable body to lead on the development of a voluntary management plan for the area.
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