The Malvern Hills is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The National Association of AONBs defines this as “a precious landscape whose distinctive character and natural beauty are so outstanding that it is in the nation’s interest to safeguard them.”
There are 41 AONBs in England and Wales. Created by the legislation of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act of 1949, AONBs represent 18% of the countryside in England and Wales.
The care of each AONB has been entrusted to the local authorities, organisations, community groups and the individuals who live and work within them or who value them – these make up the Malvern Hills Joint Advisory Committee.
The MHJAC oversees the work of the Malvern Hills AONB. Members include representatives from Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire Councils, Worcestershire and Herefordshire Associations of Local Councils, Malvern Hills District Council, the Malvern Hills Conservators and several other relevant organisations.
Elected Members:
Dr B Smith (Chairman) - Malvern Hills Conservators
Mr R Mills - Herefordshire Council
Miss M Cooper - Herefordshire Council
Mr J Raine - Malvern Hills District Council
Mr R Hall-Jones - Malvern Hills District Council
Mrs N Carless - Herefordshire Association of Local Councils (both represent all Parish within the AONB and share one vote)
Dr R Long - Forest of Dean District Council (also representing Gloucestershire County Council)
Mrs J Bowden - Worcestershire Association of Local Councils
Mrs D Rayner - Worcestershire County Council
Mr R Farmer - Worcestershire County Council
Non Elected Members:
Mr M R Allfrey - National Farmers Union
Mr J Hervey-Bathurst - Country Landowners and Business Association
Mr D Ward/Mr F Hill - Campaign to Protect Rural England
Mr G Jones - Forestry Commission
Miss K White - Natural England
Mr P Hands - Visit Herefordshire
Mr A Fleming - English Heritage (Midlands)
Friday 1 February
Friday 16 May
Friday 19 September
Click here for Programme of Meetings
If you would like further information on the work of the Committee, contact the Democratic Services Unit on 01905 766630.