Much of Britain’s most northerly chalk landscape, beloved of walkers and artists, is now just a step away from being confirmed as the country’s first new area of outstanding natural beauty in 30 years.

Natural England has submitted a proposal to Defra Secretary Angela Eagle to designate the Yorkshire Wolds as a new AONB, now known as a National Landscape, after a process which has been years in the making.

The new Yorkshire Wolds National Landscape will be the first to be designated anywhere in England in more than 30 years and will cover 463-square-kilometres.

However objectors including the Campaign for Rural England, felt the proposals didn’t go far enough, with large swathes of countryside missing out on the extra protection.

Pat Wharam Countryside Access officer for the East Riding on the Yorkshire Wolds Way near Thixendale. Sunday Oct 2 marks the 40th anniversary of the Yorkshire Wolds Way. To mark it, ramblers and trail rangers are guiding people on shorter walks crossing its 79-mile stretch from the Humber Bridge to Filey Brigg. Picture Tony Johnson

placeholder image — Pat Wharam Countryside Access officer for the East Riding on the Yorkshire Wolds Way near Thixendale. Sunday Oct 2 marks the 40th anniversary of the Yorkshire Wolds Way. To mark it, ramblers and trail rangers are guiding people on shorter walks crossing its 79-mile stretch from the Humber Bridge to Filey Brigg. Picture Tony Johnson

Although the towering white cliffs and beaches of Flamborough Head are included, the rolling countryside inland, the village, as well as Bempton and Buckton – all in an area already designated a Heritage Coast for its natural beauty, wildlife and heritage – are omitted.

Villages like Wetwang, Garton-on-the-Wolds and Foxholes have also been left out, as well as the market towns of Driffield – known as the “Capital of the Wolds” – Pocklington and Market Weighton.

The NFU and local farmers were also concerned about planning implications for landowners.

AONB designation means some permitted development rights are not available – and planning applications generally come under greater scrutiny. Paul Duncan, Deputy Director for Natural England in Yorkshire, said: "Submitting this proposal marks a hugely significant milestone, not just for the Yorkshire Wolds, but for landscape conservation across England.

"This has been years in the making, and reflects the passion and dedication of local communities, landowners and stakeholders who have helped shape these plans.

"The Yorkshire Wolds is a landscape of real distinction, and we believe it deserves the recognition, protection and investment that National Landscape status can bring."

Natural England said there had been “strong” support in consultations, ranging from 80 to 95 per cent, alongside some objections, “all of which have been carefully considered”.

Dame Angela will now review the evidence before deciding whether to confirm, amend or refuse the order.

East Riding Council first formally approached Natural England back in July 2013 to start the designation process, inspired in part by the area's rich heritage and its connection to artist David Hockney.

The initial push was put on hold and it wasn’t until 2021 that Natural England officially resumed the Yorkshire Wolds designation project.

A public consultation took place from late 2024 to early 2025, followed by a statutory notice period in early 2026 to finalise boundaries.

East Riding Council leader Anne Handley said: “The Yorkshire Wolds are a stunning area of natural landscapes that fully deserve national recognition.”