Campaigns Update

Our Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) are some of our most precious landscapes.

But our latest research has found that unsustainable development has doubled in AONBs in the past decade, despite their protections.

At a time when we need our countryside more than ever, this reckless approach is putting the ‘crown jewels’ of our countryside under threat while doing little to tackle the housing crisis.

We're calling on the government to halt this reckless development and prevent high levels of housing pressure in AONBs in the upcoming planning bill.

In the latest episode of our Countryside Voices podcast, we chat to campaigner and author Guy Shrubsole about how much freedom we have to wander in the English countryside.

Why do we only have a right to roam over a tiny percentage of England, and should we look to expand those rights?

We also look at the government's controversial proposals to criminalise trespass, and how that could affect access to the countryside.

Listen on our website or wherever you listen to podcasts, and be sure to subscribe so you’re the first to know about new episodes.

What comes to your mind when you think of May? For Susie, the frothy white combination of hawthorn flowers and cow parsley is especially evocative of spring.

In her latest exclusive monthly column for CPRE, Susie White gives us her tips on what to look out for this month.

From the magical sound of the first cuckoo to the impressive markings of the emperor moth, here’s your guide to the joy you can find in nature over the coming weeks.

Have you noticed birdsong building over the past few weeks?

Listening to the dawn chorus – nature’s free concert – lifts our spirits, providing those little bursts of happiness that we all need in these difficult times.

Fortunately, most of us can benefit from hearing birdsong, even in urban areas, by just opening a window.

Here’s our audio guide to some of the birds you’re likely to hear – a who’s who of nature’s most diverse orchestra.

Surely one of the most evocative images of spring is a gorgeous carpet of bluebells spreading in the shade beneath the trees.

Want to see a real bluebell extravaganza? Check out our guide to the best spots to see them across the country, and how to identify native and non-native bluebells.

Remember, wherever you go bluebell hunting this spring, stick to the paths; these aren’t plants that enjoy being trampled on.

Remember that the only thing you should take are photos – and a deep breath to catch that gorgeous scent!

The controversial A303 improvement scheme, which includes a tunnel past Stonehenge, will be subject of a judicial review to be held in June this year.

If approved, a new four-lane ‘expressway’ would cross the unique archaeological landscape of the Stonehenge World Heritage Site.

CPRE Wiltshire’s Kate Fielden explains why CPRE is lending support to campaigners against the scheme.

Image: Stonehenge Alliance