Mendip Hills AONB Partnership seeks Chair, Vice-Chair and Parish Council Representatives

The Mendip Hills AONB Partnership are looking to appoint a new Chairperson, Vice-Chair and three representatives of the parish councils in North Somerset, Bath & North East Somerset and Somerset. 

The Mendip Hills AONB Partnership brings together organisations and interests and provides a strategic and co-ordinated lead to the protection and enhancement of the nationally designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. These appointments come at a crucial time with climate change and extinction emergencies being declared, changes to our farm payment systems and the outcomes of the government’s recent ‘Glover Review’ that could see significant changes to the AONB Partnership and its role. 

This is a great opportunity for someone to help shape the area they love. If you have the energy and enthusiasm to protect this much loved area please get in touch to find out more. Either the Chair or Vice-Chair role may be filled by a non-elected, independent individual who is not currently on the Partnership. The other role must be filled by a councillor from one of the funding bodies.

If you are a parish councillor in the Mendip Hills area look out for the details that will be distributed via your Association of Local Councils but if you have any questions in the meantime please get in touch with the AONB Unit, details below.

Jim Hardcastle, Manager of the Mendip Hills AONB said, ‘We know people are rightly concerned about the future of the countryside they love and want to help shape the future, this is an amazing opportunity. It’s a voluntary two year role that places you at the heart of environmental decision making for the Mendip Hills. The Partnership is made up of the organisations that manage the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, like the local authorities, the Wildlife Trusts, Natural England etc. We’re looking for people with the right skills and experience backed up by a love for this nationally protected area.’

If you would like to help shape the conservation and enhancement of this nationally protected landscape, please download the Requirements and application document. This simple form will need to be submitted by 19th February with the elections at the AONB Partnership meeting on 19th March.

For further details on the roles, requirements and appointment process please contact Jim Hardcastle, Mendip Hills AONB Manager on 01761 462338 or email jim@mendiphillsaonb.org.uk