How the Northumberland Coast National Landscape is Cared For
A small but mighty team works to conserve and regenerate the natural beauty of the Northumberland Coast National Landscape
The Northumberland Coast National Landscape (formerly the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), was designated in 1958 to safeguard one of England’s most distinctive and beautiful coastlines. Stretching across 138 square kilometres, from the Coquet Estuary above Amble to just below Berwick to the north, it encompasses sweeping sandy beaches, rolling dunes, rocky headlands and remote islands, all framed by spectacular coastal views. The team’s purpose is to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the area for current and future generations.
A National Landscape is one of the UK’s most treasured protected areas, places recognised for their exceptional natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage. ‘Until recently they were known as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, but the new name better reflects their national significance and their vital role in nature recovery, climate action and supporting people’s wellbeing,’ explains communications officer Morgan Forrest. ‘National Landscapes are cared for through partnership. We work closely with local councils, landowners, communities and organisations to restore habitats, support sustainable tourism and help people enjoy these special places responsibly. They are living, working landscapes where nature, heritage and community all matter, and where the aim is to protect what makes them special while ensuring they thrive long into the future.’
Morgan argues that what makes the Northumberland Coast National Landscape truly special is the unique relationship between people, place and nature. ‘This coastline has been shaped by centuries of history, culture and coastal tradition, creating a landscape rich in wildlife and full of stories,’ she says. ‘It offers space to breathe, explore and connect with the natural world and once you’ve experienced it, it’s hard not to fall in love with it.’
With the support of more than 200 volunteers, they deliver habitat restoration and wildlife conservation projects, organise beach cleans and practical conservation tasks, and run events and activities that help people engage with and understand the coastline. ‘Together, we protect the coast’s special qualities while ensuring it can be enjoyed responsibly for generations to come,’ says Morgan.
The Northumberland Coast National Landscape have just published their new Management Plan which sets out how the coast will be looked after for the next five years. ‘It isn’t just for the partnership or staff team, it’s for everyone who lives or works in the National Landscape,’ says Morgan. The plan includes a 30-year vision: ‘A sense of remoteness and wildness is maintained, with wide open coastal and sea views, a naturally functioning coastline rich in wildlife, and a clear distinction between settlements and open countryside. The National Landscape is a living, working area with a celebrated history and culture, and a vibrant present in which social and economic wellbeing is successfully integrated with the conservation and enhancement of the special qualities of the area.’
There are many ways to support the Northumberland Coast National Landscape, from volunteering or joining local events to simply caring for the coast when you visit. All volunteers are provided with full training and the equipment and resources they need to care for the landscape. ‘Small actions make a big difference,’ says Morgan, and the team advise visitors to follow the Countryside Code, dispose of litter responsibly and respect the wildlife that calls this coastline home.
