what is the difference between an AONB and a National Park?
A. National Parks and AONBs were born from the same piece of legislation. One main difference is that National Parks are managed by National Park Authorities which are planning authorities in their own right, whereas in AONBs land-use planning is the responsibility of local authorities. By law, National Park Authorities must also promote opportunities for the public to understand and enjoy the area. No such primary duty exists in AONBs.
They have the same status in terms of protection. In addition, National Parks are required to promote opportunities for understanding and enjoyment of their special qualities by the public. They are administered by National Park Authorities which control planning and development and co-ordinate management activities. In AONBs, planning and development control functions are administered by the local authorities. Most funding for National Parks comes through DEFRA; most funding for AONBs comes through natural England.
