'National Landscapes' is new name for nature sites

Mendip Hills AONB The view from Mendip Hills, SomersetMendip Hills AONB
The Mendip Hills National Landscape limestone slopes
  • Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are being renamed as "National Landscapes"
  • The change aims to emphasise how important the sites are in tackling climate change issues
  • The areas are said to benefit the climate by storing carbon, safeguarding against drought and providing food

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are to be renamed as "National Landscapes".

The National Landscapes team said this was to highlight the importance of natural sites.

The Mendip Hills of Somerset was included in the list of areas, and by 2030 it aimed to have actions in place towards its tree planting targets.

The selected areas reportedly benefit the country by restoring the ecosystem, providing food, storing carbon and safeguarding against drought.

Mendip Hills AONB Drystone Wallers sat outsideMendip Hills AONB
The Mendip Hills National Landscape Drystone Wallers

National Landscapes said 66% of people lived within 30 minutes of one of the sites and 170 million people visit them each year.

Jim Hardcastle, the Mendip Hills National Landscape Manager said: "We have a new name and logo... but this is still the same beautiful place where people live and work and come to breathe.

"The name should grab people's attention and remind them how importance the area is."

Follow BBC West on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to: [email protected]