THE Government has been warned the North’s beauty spots could be at risk unless it commits to the same level of support for agriculture and the rural environment following Brexit.
The Country Land and Business Association (CLA) said a “world-leading” policy was needed as uncertainty over funding after 2020 could lead to such areas being at risk of being economically and environmentally unviable.
CLA North regional director Dorothy Fairburn said: “Areas of Outstanding National Beauty (AONB) are living, working landscapes.
“It is critical that the right Government policies and funds are designed which will enable farmers and land managers to sustain these distinctive landscapes for future generations.
“Brexit has created a period of uncertainty. Although we are assured the current support for agriculture and rural development will continue at the same level until the end of 2020, after that it is unknown.
“The Government has a duty to ensure food, farming and the environment are not let down by a lack of funding because communities, businesses, landscapes and wildlife are all dependent on the viability of the rural economy.”
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