Hertfordshire’s only Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is set for expansion towards the end of 2024.

According to county council documents, Natural England could submit an order to the secretary of state for the environment, food and rural affairs – a post currently held by Thérèse Coffey MP – to grow the AONB in October 2024.

Natural England is still in the process of gathering evidence and consulting with local councils before it decides exactly where the new area boundary should fall.

The existing Chilterns AONB spans the area between Reading and Hitchin – around High Wycombe, Berkhamsted, Tring and Luton.

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The expansion is likely to take place within the Chilterns National Character Area – taking into account biodiversity, geology, landscape and economic activity – which is larger and includes Hemel Hempstead, Harpenden and a part of Stevenage.

AONB status would mean local authorities have to “conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the area” – which would have an impact on planning decisions, environment plans and tourism strategies.

At a Hertfordshire County Council environment panel on Thursday, March 16, Hemel Hempstead Town councillor Adrian England said he supported expert recommendations to expand the Chilterns AONB.

He warned it could “pinch” space which Hertfordshire needs to support housing and economic demands.

“We need to get rural ecology right,” he said.

“We also need to get the evidence bases right so that local authorities can develop their local plans – and this is so we can get the right housing ambitions.”

Cllr England said: “The Chilterns need to be seen in equitable value to other AONBs.

“I do not want to get into a position where, when we have expanded the area, we think there is no more we need to do [to find a balance between the environment and affordable housing].

“We have to remember there is an endless stream of demand with deep pockets coming out of London.”

Bim Afolami, Conservative MP for Hitchin and Harpenden, told the LDRS he welcomes plans to expand the Chilterns AONB.

He said: “We are very fortunate to have beautiful Chilterns countryside in our part of the world, with – for example – a number of rare chalk streams, historic woodlands and vital local habitats.

“I am campaigning for AONB status because it would give greater protections to our local countryside from inappropriate development, unlock new opportunities to enhance our natural environment and give a boost to our local rural economy.

“I look forward to working with local Councillors and residents to make use of the protections that AONB status will give our countryside.”

Labour county councillor Tina Bhartwas, who represents Letchworth North, said she is concerned the government may be unable to “deliver lasting improvements” to the environment in light of cuts in the region of 40 per cent to national parks, which are separate to AONBs.

She said: “The Chilterns expansion will enhance Hertfordshire by protecting more of our beautiful countryside.

“Whilst this expansion is a step in the right direction, we are concerned about the government’s ambition.”