Conservation covenants could allow landowners to protect their environment in perpetuity says Andrew Sells, Chairman of Natural England.
The importance of this country’s treasured landscapes to our economy, our health and our sense of identity is perhaps greater now than it has ever been. And yet protecting our natural heritage is often seen as a long-term investment made unaffordable by society’s more pressing day-to-day needs.
"I believe there is a way forward that can help landowners and communities to protect the many benefits of the environment for generations into the future," said Andrew Sells.
By using an agreement known as a conservation covenant, landowners in England and Wales could, for the first time, protect their environment not only during their tenure but in perpetuity if they wished.
For example, the owner of some woodland enjoyed by the local community may wish to leave the land to her children. She wants to ensure that the woodland is maintained for public enjoyment but doubts that future generations would share her priorities. A conservation covenant would achieve her aims.
Natural England: Conservation covenants can help protect our landscapes
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