High Weald AONB

The High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a protected area in south-eastern England. It covers 146 square kilometres of countryside in the counties of East Sussex, West Sussex and Kent.

The AONB was designated in 1974 by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. Its purpose is to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the area. This is achieved through planning controls and other management techniques such as conservation agreements and grants.

The High Weald AONB Partnership is the organisation that promotes sustainable development within the AONB. It is made up of representatives from local authorities, statutory agencies, conservation organisations and others with an interest in the area.

The High Weald landscape is characterised by its rolling hills, valleys and woodlands. It is home to a number of rare and threatened species of plants and animals. There are also a number of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) within the AONB.

The AONB is surrounded by the South Downs National Park to the north, the Ashdown Forest to the east, and the River Rother valley to the south. The town of Hastings lies on its westernmost edge.