News

Farmer Richard Shropshire and Colin Manning of Cannock Chase AONB invite you to visit Woodhall Growers at Teddesley Park Farm, Penkridge, Stafford on 8^th June 2023 for an informal farm tour and lunch to see how Farming in Protected Landscapes funding is helping Richard and the farm.

Date:            Thursday 8^th June 2023

Where:        Teddesley Park Farm – meeting point supplied on booking

Time:           09:30am arrival and refreshments

A farm tour will follow showing how opportunities for funding is helping Richard on the start of a journey into new areas of work on the farm. There will also be a talk given by Rob Browne from RB Rural on carbon audits, how they link into farming and can help farmers and landowners.

Time for discussion and informal questions.

Lunch at 12noon before departure

Who is this event for? Farmers, tenants and landowners in and around Cannock Chase AONB.

Places are limited so to book your place please email Colin Manning

E: colin.manning@staffordshire.gov.uk

What is Farming in Protected Landscapes?

A programme of funding for farmers, landowners and managers in and around the AONB area. Funding is available until March 2025 and is open to projects that contribute to one or more of the outcomes of climate, nature, people and place.

More information, ideas on projects that have already been funded and opportunities to discuss the funding further will be available on the day.

Further information on Farming in Protected Landscapes can be found here.

Cannock Chase AONB Partnership is looking at ways of improving access for disabled people across the Chase. We have commissioned Direct Access, a specialist disability consultancy, to do a public consultation for disabled people to identify where people currently go and where they would like to see access improvements. Whether you want to see more benches on site, more accessible pathways, or updated tactile/braille signage, come down for a chat and tell us what you want to see change at Cannock Chase. Your views are important.

The event will be held at Staffordshire Wildlife Trust, The Wolesley Centre, Wolesley Bridge, Stafford, ST17 0WT on Wednesday 10^th May from 2pm – 4pm. Sign language interpreters will be present.

If you would like to attend the event, please contact Direct Access on

07957 789401 or consultation@directaccess.group

Following the consultation, Direct Access will undertake a series of site audits to create a new accessibility guide and recommendations to improve accessibility. 

For further information about the project please do not hesitate to contact the AONB team on cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk

Cannock Chase AONB Sustainable Development fund is now open for applications. Do you have a project in mind that will make a difference to the landscape, wildlife, heritage, and communities of Cannock Chase?

The funding is available to community groups, schools, organisations, and individuals and even if you do not live or work in the AONB area you may still be eligible if your project will have a positive impact on the area.

Examples of projects previously funded include:-

• Installation of bird and bat boxes
• Creating wildlife gardens
• Production of information boards, leaflets and a video
• Wildlife surveys such as the 2022 Cannock Chase Quinquennial Breeding Bird Survey and research projects
• Heritage projects including Lens on the Past
• Providing access to art and eco-therapy to clients with a mental health diagnosis

Applicants are normally expected to contribute at least 25% of total project costs either from their own reserves, other funding sources, or ‘in kind’ contributions such as volunteer time or the loan of premises or equipment.  For smaller grants of £500 or under funding could be given up to 100% of the project costs.

We want to hear from you now.

All you need to do is email cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk with your project idea and we will send the application form to you.

For further information on the fund see Funding – Cannock Chase (cannock-chase.co.uk)

The closing date for applications is midnight 16th May 2023 and projects must be completed by 31^st March 2024.

We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Image credit: Nightjar from 2022 Cannock Chase Quinquennial Breeding Bird Survey

Photographer: Joe Banton

Take a look at our latest e-newsletter to keep you up to date on news from the AONB, work in progress and the projects we are currently involved in. Click here to download.

An exciting job opportunity has arisen with the Cannock Chase AONB Partnership to help promote the profile of Cannock Chase and our work with a wide-ranging audience of farmers and landowners, residents, visitors, businesses, community and user groups, local authorities and other partners.

If this sounds like your perfect job and you have the skills and experience to deliver impactful communications in one of England’s finest landscapes then please apply by the closing date of 26th August.  For an informal chat about the role please contact Ian Marshall, AONB Development Officer ian.marshall@staffordshire.gov.uk or 01785 276051 / 07989 148731.

Our latest Annual Review is now ready for you to enjoy and discover what we have been doing.

The Review summarises the work undertaken by the AONB team, partner organisations and volunteers during 2021-22.  Despite another challenging year, the support and partnership across the area has continued to bring a wide range of benefits to the Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and its local communities and visitors.

Highlights include:

• Supporting our farmers through the new Farming in Protected Landscapes programme
• 6 environmental enhancement projects have received funding worth £1.5 million from HS2
• The condition of our 5 Local Geological Sites has been assessed
• New studies have improved our knowledge and understanding of deer numbers and impacts
• Training practitioners in veteran tree management
• Research about the apple trees on the Chase
• One of the last surviving structures from WWII RAF Hednesford Camp has been conserved
• The adoption of a new voluntary code to help protect Cannock Chase
• Improvements to our visitor welcome
• Raising children and young people’s awareness and appreciation of the Chase
• Supporting 4 local community groups through the AONB Sustainable Development Fund
• Adopting the national AONB Arts in the Landscape Strategy
• Responding to the Government’s response to the Landscapes Review
• Studies to better understand how inclusive, welcoming and relevant we are, and how Cannock Chase can contribute to the climate change emergency
• AONB Annual Conference

Get in touch if you would like to know more about any of our activities.

Are you looking for funding to make your project happen? projects that will contribute towards conserving, enhancing, and raising awareness of the natural beauty of the AONB, its wildlife, heritage, and its communities are supported by the Sustainable Development Fund.  You will need to demonstrate your project supports the conservation and enhancement of this special area by providing an environmental, economic, or social benefit – ideally all three.

Anyone (individual, group, or organisation) can apply for a grant of up to £3,000 from the AONB’s Sustainable Development Fund (SDF). The fund is managed by Cannock Chase AONB on behalf of Defra.

The closing date for applications is midnight 19^th September 2022 and projects must be completed by 31^st March 2023.

For grants of £500 or under we can fund up to 100% of the project costs. For awards over £500 we usually ask for match funding of between 25% – 50%. This can be made up from ‘in kind’ contributions such as volunteer time or the loan of premises or equipment.

You do not have to live or work within Cannock Chase to apply but your project must have a direct positive impact upon the AONB, have a wider public benefit, and support one or more of the priorities set out in the Cannock Chase AONB Management Plan.

Previous projects supported include practical conservation work such as heathland restoration, installation of bird and bat boxes, wildlife surveys and research, encouraging greater understanding and appreciation of the Chase’s nationally important landscape through film and literature, and the use of art to connect people to nature.

Of the grant Fund, Frances Beatty, Chair of Cannock Chase AONB Joint Committee commented:

“Since 2006 the Fund has helped to bring environmental, social and economic benefits across the Chase through supporting projects to safeguard and enhance the Chase’s nationally important landscape and natural beauty. These projects have benefitted the Chase’s beautiful landscape, its special wildlife, rich culture, heritage, and community, and with continued community involvement in the scheme will go on to do so for years to come. If you have any ideas for community projects that support our core purpose to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of Cannock Chase, please do get in touch with the AONB Team. We are particularly interested in hearing from artists, sculptors, performers, photographers, and writers looking to develop inclusive arts projects linking people with our special landscape.”

For more information and how to apply, please see our ‘Funding for your project’ page.

Image credit: Richard Harris – Orangery Garden project, Shugborough Estate, National Trust

The AGM and next meeting of the Cannock Chase AONB Joint Committee is taking place on Thursday 14^th July 2022 at 10.00am at the Rising Brook Community Church, Burton Square, Stafford ST17 9LT.

The full agenda and papers for the meeting can be viewed here

Members of the public wishing to observe this meeting in person are welcome to do so.

If you wish to ask a question during Public Questions you must inform the AONB Team in writing by electronic email (addressed to cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk) no later than close of play Friday 8^th July.   Questions must relate to the business of the Joint Committee and the statutory purpose of the AONB to ‘conserve and enhance’ Cannock Chase.   Only questions that have been received in advance in writing will be permitted at meetings.   Please read the full protocol for public questions.

The AONB is governed by the Joint Committee which has devolved authority from the five local authorities that cover the Chase (Staffordshire County Council, Cannock Chase Council, Lichfield District Council, South Staffordshire Council and Stafford Borough Council).  It leads on preparing, monitoring and reviewing the AONB Management Plan for Cannock Chase.

The next meeting of the Cannock Chase AONB Joint Committee is taking place on Thursday 24^th March 2022 at 10.00am at the Rising Brook Community Church, Burton Square, Stafford ST17 9LT.

The full agenda and papers for the meeting can be viewed here.

Members of the public wishing to observe this meeting in person are welcome to do so.

If you wish to ask a question during Public Questions you must inform the AONB Team in writing by electronic email (addressed to cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk) no later than close of play Thursday 17^th March.   Questions must relate to the business of the Joint Committee and the statutory purpose of the AONB to ‘conserve and enhance’ Cannock Chase.  Only questions that have been received in advance in writing will be permitted at meetings.  Please read the full protocol for public questions.

The AONB is governed by the Joint Committee which has devolved authority from the five local authorities that cover the Chase (Staffordshire County Council, Cannock Chase Council, Lichfield District Council, South Staffordshire Council and Stafford Borough Council).  It leads on preparing, monitoring and reviewing the AONB Management Plan for Cannock Chase.

Are you looking for funding to make your project happen? projects that will contribute towards conserving, enhancing, and raising awareness of the natural beauty of the AONB, its wildlife, heritage, and its communities are supported by the Sustainable Development Fund.  You will need to demonstrate your project supports the conservation and enhancement of this special area by providing an environmental, economic, or social benefit – ideally all three.

Anyone (individual, group, or organisation) can apply for a grant of up to £3,000 from the AONB’s Sustainable Development Fund (SDF). The fund is managed by Cannock Chase AONB on behalf of Defra.

The closing date for applications is midnight 9^th May 2022 and projects must be completed by 31^st March 2023.

For grants of £500 or under we can fund up to 100% of the project costs. For awards over £500 we usually ask for match funding of between 25% – 50%. This can be made up from ‘in kind’ contributions such as volunteer time or the loan of premises or equipment.

You do not have to live or work within Cannock Chase to apply but your project must have a direct positive impact upon the AONB, have a wider public benefit, and support one or more of the priorities set out in the Cannock Chase AONB Management Plan.

Previous projects supported include practical conservation work such as heathland restoration, installation of bird and bat boxes, wildlife surveys and research, encouraging greater understanding and appreciation of the Chase’s nationally important landscape through film and literature, and the use of art to connect people to nature.

Of the grant Fund, Frances Beatty, Chair of Cannock Chase AONB Joint Committee commented:

“Since 2006 the Fund has helped to bring environmental, social and economic benefits across the Chase through supporting projects to safeguard and enhance the Chase’s nationally important landscape and natural beauty. These projects have benefitted the Chase’s beautiful landscape, its special wildlife, rich culture, heritage, and community, and with continued community involvement in the scheme will go on to do so for years to come. If you have any ideas for community projects that support our core purpose to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of Cannock Chase, please do get in touch with the AONB Team. We are particularly interested in hearing from artists, sculptors, performers, photographers, and writers looking to develop inclusive arts projects linking people with our special landscape.”

For more information and how to apply, please see our ‘Funding for your project’ page.

Image credit: Orangery Garden project, National Trust

Our Annual Conference is a key event in the AONB calendar, giving us the opportunity to bring together local members of the community and AONB Partnership members in support of our outstanding landscape.

The theme of this year’s online conference held on 3rd March 2022 was ‘Changing perceptions and behaviours’.  You can read about the conference presentations and watch recordings of the proceedings here.

One of the unexpected features of the pandemic was the way in which people turned to protected landscapes in unprecedented numbers for relaxation, exercise and enjoyment.  They became an escape from the coronavirus and the lockdowns.  Visitor pressure on Cannock Chase is not a new phenomenon.  It has been a concern since at least the 1970s if not earlier.  During the pandemic, however, the issues, tensions, and the need for management have come into sharper focus.

We need protected landscapes like Cannock Chase more than ever for inspiration and making us feel better.  A flipside of people’s recreational use of Cannock Chase, however, are the unintended consequences.  These include erosion, damage to wildlife habitats and cultural heritage, disturbance to wildlife, wildfires, litter, anti-social behaviour and a general loss of the sense of peace and tranquillity.  Many new as well as repeat visitors are simply unaware of the special importance of Cannock Chase and take it for granted.

Balancing the needs of conservation with recreational demands is an ongoing challenge for all protected landscapes, but is particularly acute on Cannock Chase due to its size, location and proximity to substantial urban populations.

The Glover Review of England’s National Parks and AONBs published in 2019 strongly advocated encouraging our national landscapes to be healthier, greener, more beautiful places and open to everyone.  It is likely that the Government will run with this, and that AONBs will be levelled up with National Parks and given a second statutory purpose for ‘public enjoyment and understanding’, alongside ‘conserving and enhancing natural beauty’.  It is therefore timely that ‘changing perceptions and behaviours’ was this year’s conference theme and that we had a conversation about the issues, challenges and solutions.

On Saturday (15 January) the Government published its response to the Landscapes Review: National Parks and AONBs, an independent review led by Julian Glover and published in 2019.

The Cannock Chase AONB Partnership welcomes the Government’s long-awaited response, particularly the opportunity to reinvigorate the status of AONBs with new purposes and powers that will help us to:

• Drive nature recovery within our landscape
• Address the challenges posed by climate change
• Encourage improved access to our protected landscape for all parts of society
• Strengthen our role in the planning system
• Improve governance including strengthened duties for public bodies.

Frances Beatty, Chair of the Cannock Chase AONB Joint Committee said:

 “Our Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, our most cherished landscapes, are seriously at risk and need emergency action now.  Cannock Chase, despite its designation as a nationally protected landscape, is at high risk.  There are threats to its beauty, its historic features and its landscapes: from inappropriate development; visitor pressure and land degradation; water pollution; the intense increase in light pollution, and above all catastrophic species decline.  

 This government consultation is welcome.  It’s the first major review of protected landscapes since they were first created over 70 years ago, a once in a lifetime opportunity for people to shape how protected landscapes will deliver benefits for people and nature for years to come.

 AONB teams have a proven track record of collaborative working with partners, local communities, landowners and business to keep these precious landscapes special.   Yet this government consultation fully acknowledges the utterly inadequate current funding for managing Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.   Overall core funding to AONBs has been slashed by an eye watering 36% over the past 10 years.  Government funding between all 34 AONBs in England totals just £6m per year.   An uplift will be essential to achieve all that is being asked of us in this report, to deliver the ambition for more beautiful, species-rich and accessible landscapes set out by Julian Glover and his team. 

 Cannock Chase AONB Partnership welcomes the government’s direction and is set to do more.   We look forward to working with Government to use this opportunity to strengthen AONBs as exemplars of 21st century designated landscapes”.

Next steps 

The consultation will run for 12 weeks, closing on 9 April 2022.  Cannock Chase AONB Partnership will be working with key partners and stakeholders to develop a detailed response to the consultation, which we will publish on our website, once it has been submitted.

Have your say!  Landscapes are for everyone and so too is the consultation.  We therefore encourage everyone to get involved.

This is your landscape, have your say, get involved.

Read the Government’s response 

Respond to the consultation

Photo credit: Sam Carpenter

Registration is now open for this year’s Cannock Chase AONB Conference taking place on 3rd March 2022, which has as its theme ‘Changing perceptions and behaviours’.

Our Chair, Frances Beatty, will be the host for the Conference.  After her welcome attendees will hear about the work of the AONB Partnership and Team over the past year and the coming 12 months and have the opportunity to ask questions.

We are delighted to announce that Mike Dilger, broadcaster, naturalist, writer and tour leader will then give the opening address to the conference which will look at what is being done to change people’s perceptions of Cannock Chase and influence positive behaviours to ensure that one of England’s finest landscapes stays special for this and future generations to come.

Presentations will focus on a range of initiatives underway or planned including: using sense of place, messaging and communication strategies, behavioural change campaigns, education and the use of the arts and culture to connect people to nature.  We will also hear how England’s most popular protected landscape – the Lake District National Park – is responding to challenging visitor pressures and behaviours.

Our speakers include:

• Tony Watson, Head of Visitor Services and Communications, Lake District National Park Authority
• Ian Marshall, Cannock Chase AONB Development Officer
• Peter Farmer, FDA Design
• Laura Freer, Marketing and Communications Manager, Central England Forest District, Forestry England
• Ali Clarke, Programme Manager, Surrey Hills Arts
• Kinga Niedzinska, Cannock Chase SAC Engagement Officer

There will be opportunities to question the speakers and AONB staff team throughout the event.

The free conference will be held on Zoom this year and will run from 10am-12pm with a break for lunch before the afternoon session from 2-4pm.  You will receive one Zoom link for the whole day.  To reserve your place, you need to register here as soon as possible.

Photo credit: Sam Carpenter

Cannock Chase AONB would like to hear from artists, art advisors, art venues and others involved in the arts and cultural sector who are interested in developing stronger emotional connections between people and Cannock Chase using the arts.

Cannock Chase is a cultural landscape of local and national value.  However, its beauty is often intangible and can be difficult to express.  Yet we know that it enriches our lives, lifts our spirits, and makes us feel better!

The arts are one means by which people can experience, connect with and better understand Cannock Chase – its landscape, nature and heritage.  Cannock Chase AONB Partnership wishes to explore that relationship and actively promote opportunities for projects with artists and producers in order to ensure that this precious place is more accessible to people and more widely understood and appreciated.

If this interests you please drop us a line at cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk  Our plan is to hold an informal virtual workshop of interested people in January to share thoughts and ideas and discuss the scope for collaborative action.

We look forward to hearing from you.

The next meeting of the Cannock Chase AONB Joint Committee is taking place on Monday 6th December 2021 at 10.00am at the Rising Brook Community Church, Burton Square, Stafford ST17 9LT.

The full agenda and papers for the meeting can be viewed here.

Members of the public wishing to observe this meeting in person are welcome to do so.  Social distancing rules may be in operation.

If you wish to ask a question during Public Questions you must inform the AONB Team in writing by electronic email (addressed to cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk) no later than close of play Monday 29 November .  Questions must relate to the business of the Joint Committee and the statutory purpose of the AONB to ‘conserve and enhance’ Cannock Chase.  Only questions that have been received in advance in writing will be permitted at meetings.  Please read the full protocol for public questions.

The AONB is governed by the Joint Committee which has devolved authority from the five local authorities that cover the Chase (Staffordshire County Council, Cannock Chase Council, Lichfield District Council, South Staffordshire Council and Stafford Borough Council).  It leads on preparing, monitoring and reviewing the AONB Management Plan for Cannock Chase.

The Cannock Chase AONB Partnership is calling on local communities and visitors to help care for Cannock Chase by following a new Code.

Cannock Chase is one of England’s finest landscapes – a beautiful yet fragile place with rare wildlife and important cultural heritage.  Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) status ensures this outstanding landscape has the highest level of protection to conserve and enhance it for the nation and for present and future generations to enjoy.

The AONB Partnership worked with the Cannock Chase Special Area of Conservation (SAC) Partnership, public and charitable landowners and the emergency services to create the Cannock Chase code.

The code features 12 simple ways that visitors and residents can help care for Cannock Chase.

The organisations backing the Cannock Chase code include the AONB Partnership, SAC Partnership, Cannock Chase Council, Forestry England, Lichfield District Council, West Midlands Ambulance Service, National Trust, South Staffordshire Council, Stafford Borough Council, Staffordshire County Council, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, Staffordshire Police and Staffordshire Wildlife Trust.

Frances Beatty, Chair of the AONB Joint Committee commented: “By following the Cannock Chase code we can all help to keep this wonderful place special.  Everyone can make a difference”.

The code can be downloaded from the Cannock Chase website.

Are you looking for funding to make your project happen? The Sustainable Development Fund supports projects that will contribute towards conserving, enhancing, and raising awareness of the natural beauty of the AONB, its wildlife, heritage, and its communities.  You will need to demonstrate your project supports the conservation and enhancement of this special area by providing an environmental, economic, or social benefit – ideally all three.

Anyone (individual, group, or organisation) can apply for a grant of up to £3,000 from the AONB’s Sustainable Development Fund (SDF). The fund is managed by Cannock Chase AONB on behalf of Defra.

The closing date for applications for this further round is midnight 17th October 2021 and projects must be completed by 31 March 2022.

For grants of £500 or under we can fund up to 100% of the project costs. For awards over £500 we usually ask for match funding of between 25% – 50%. This can be made up from ‘in kind’ contributions such as volunteer time or the loan of premises or equipment.

You do not have to live or work within Cannock Chase to apply but, your project must have a direct positive impact upon the AONB, have a wider public benefit, and support one or more of the priorities set out in the Cannock Chase AONB Management Plan.

Previous projects supported include heritage interpretation panels, habitat management such as heathland restoration, wildlife surveys, installation of bird and bat boxes, social history research, leaflets, and art projects.

Of the grant Fund, Richard Harris, AONB Land Management Officer commented:

“Since the scheme began the Fund has supported local conservation, community, and educational projects that conserve, enhance, and improve our understanding of the Chase’s landscape, wildlife, and rich culture and history. The grant enables people, organisations and businesses to protect, celebrate and give something back to the precious landscape we all love and cherish”.

For more information and how to apply, please see our ‘Funding for your project’ page.

Image credit: rspb-images.com

Our latest Annual Review is now ready for you to enjoy and discover what we have been doing.

In what has been an extraordinary and challenging year our AONB Team has kept working with partners and local communities to deliver a range of activities that conserve and enhance the natural beauty of Cannock Chase, and at the same time connect people with this nationally important landscape.  Read how:

• New studies have highlighted the importance of the Chase for bats and invertebrates
• The value of dark skies and the ways we can reduce light pollution has been promoted jointly with Staffordshire CPRE
• Resources have been made available for local businesses to promote Cannock Chase in their products and services
• The landscape character of the Chase has been protected and enhanced through expert advice given to proposed new development including housing, HS2 and the Commonwealth Games.
• Five community groups have been supported through the AONB Sustainable Development Fund
• The visitor experience is being improved by the preparation of new on-site interpretation
• A strategy to protect and celebrate the Chase’s rich historic and cultural environment is being prepared with the input of local communities

Get in touch if you would like to know more about any of our activities.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and committed individual to take on the role of Farming in Protected Landscapes Officer to deliver a major new land management grant programme in the Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Created by Defra and managed by AONBs and National Park teams across England, the programme will help farmers, land managers and others to deliver work on the farmed landscape under the themes of climate, nature, people and place.

This is an opportunity to make a real difference to farming and land management in the AONB and to help conserve and enhance the natural beauty of this nationally important landscape. You will be the first point of contact for the programme. You will provide advice and guidance to farmers and other land managers, support grant applicants, support an assessment panel who will judge applications, and carry out general administration and monitoring activities to ensure the efficient running of the programme.

Deadline for applications: 30 July 2021

For more details and to apply

The AGM and next meeting of the Cannock Chase AONB Joint Committee is taking place on Monday 12 July 2021 at 11.00am at the Rising Brook Community Church, Burton Square, Stafford ST17 9LT.

Agenda items include presentations on preparations for the Commonwealth Games 2022 and details about grants available to farmers and land managers in the AONB through the new Farming in Protected Landscapes Programme.

The full agenda and papers for the meeting can be viewed here.

Members of the public wishing to observe this meeting in person are welcome to do so.  Social distancing rules will be in operation, and you will be required to provide your name and contact phone number for means of NHS Test and Trace.

If you wish to ask a question during Public Questions you must inform the AONB Team in writing by electronic email (addressed to cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk) no later than close of play Monday 5^th July.  Questions must relate to the business of the Joint Committee and the statutory purpose of the AONB to ‘conserve and enhance’ Cannock Chase.  Only questions that have been received in advance in writing will be permitted at meetings.  Please read the full protocol for public questions.

The AONB is governed by the Joint Committee which has devolved authority from the five local authorities that cover the Chase (Staffordshire County Council, Cannock Chase Council, Lichfield District Council, South Staffordshire Council and Stafford Borough Council).  It leads on preparing, monitoring and reviewing the AONB Management Plan for Cannock Chase.

Chasewater Innovation Centre is hosting a pop-up exhibition by young photographer Sam Laughlin between 21 April – 28 May.

In 2020 Sam walked the length of the West Midlands region in one trip, starting in the Wye Valley and walking north through Cannock Chase to the Staffordshire Moorlands and Peak District.

His work explores the conflicting political, economic and social influences behind rural land management in the area, focussing on the ways in which these influences are manifested in the physical landscape, and the resulting effect on biodiversity.  Habitat loss, whether due to intensive farming practices, forestry, or housing development, is one of the most significant factors driving the global mass extinction event which is currently underway.

Sam Laughlin is a British visual artist whose recent practice is primarily concerned with intricate natural processes.  Mainly utilising large format black and white photography, his work is characterised by its slowness, taking the form of long term projects intended primarily for exhibition.

Sam’s work has most recently been exhibited at Jerwood Space, Impressions Gallery, John Hansard Gallery and Towner Art Gallery.  In 2015 he was commissioned by John Hansard Gallery to create work over a 4 year period.  In 2017 he received the Jerwood/Photoworks Award. www.samlaughlin.co.uk

The pop-up exhibition at Chasewater Innovation Centre, Cannock Chase, is open weekdays only.  Details for visiting Chasewater can be found at www.enjoychasewater.co.uk  Parking fees apply: £1 for one hour, and £3 all day – cash only.

The Growing Things is a GRAIN Projects commission, supported by Arts Council England, and part of 10 other projects entitled ‘The Rural Gaze’, made by photographers in response to the rural Midlands.  For more information hello@grainphotographyhub.co.uk www.grainphotographyhub.co.uk

Image is Wildflower Island by Sam Laughlin

A new toolkit is available to help local businesses appreciate the special qualities of Cannock Chase and how they can use a sense of place to develop and promote their products and services.

Being associated with one of England’s finest landscapes makes business-sense:

• Telling customers that you’re in one of the finest landscapes in the country adds value to local products and services.
• Being associated with this wonderful place provides currency with residents and visitors.
• When people connect with a place at a deep level, they develop an affinity and affection for it, which in turn means they are likely to spend more time and money there, tell their friends about it and visit again.
• Being actively involved with the future of Cannock Chase provides opportunities for the personal development of staff and will help businesses to fulfil their corporate social responsibility.

The toolkit can be accessed by registering on the Cannock Chase AONB website and signing up to terms and conditions.  Along with the toolkit, registered businesses will be able to use the new Cannock Chase logo, business locators, and a selection of stunning images – all for free!

The toolkit has been designed around our new Cannock Chase place brand that captures the open landscape, freedom and sense of tranquillity of Cannock Chase in words and pictures. The objectives for the place brand are to help to protect and enhance the natural beauty of this special place; inspire and unite local communities and partners; support rural regeneration; encourage social and capital investment.

Over time the new place brand will be woven into signage and interpretation across the Chase. Other ideas include themed branded materials, maps, posters and leaflets. If you have suggestions for how and where the new place brand can be used please contact us at cannockchase@staffordshire.gov.uk.

Are you looking for funding to make your project happen? The Sustainable Development Fund supports projects that will contribute towards conserving, enhancing, and raising awareness of the natural beauty of the AONB, its wildlife, heritage, and its communities.  You will need to demonstrate your project supports the conservation and enhancement of this special area by providing an environmental, economic, or social benefit – ideally all three.

Anyone (individual, group, or organisation) can apply for a grant of up to £3,000 from the AONB’s Sustainable Development Fund (SDF). The fund is managed by Cannock Chase AONB on behalf of Defra.

The closing date for applications is midnight 17th May 2021 and projects must be completed by 31 March 2022.

For grants of £500 or under we can fund up to 100% of the project costs. For awards over £500 we usually ask for match funding of between 25% – 50%. This can be made up from ‘in kind’ contributions such as volunteer time or the loan of premises or equipment.

You do not have to live or work within Cannock Chase to apply but, your project must have a direct positive impact upon the AONB, have a wider public benefit, and support one or more of the priorities set out in the Cannock Chase AONB Management Plan.

Previous projects supported include heritage interpretation panels, habitat management such as heathland restoration, wildlife surveys, installation of bird and bat boxes, social history research, leaflets, and art projects.

Of the grant Fund, Richard Harris, AONB Land Management Officer commented:

“Since the scheme began the Fund has supported local conservation, community, and educational projects that conserve, enhance, and improve our understanding of the Chase’s landscape, wildlife, and rich culture and history. The grant enables people, organisations and businesses to protect, celebrate and give something back to the precious landscape we all love and cherish”.

For more information and how to apply, please see our ‘Funding for your project’ page.

Image credit: rspb-images.com

Views at Shugborough Estate on Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are about to get better. Shugborough Estate is an iconic Grade 1 Listed Park of international significance with extensive parkland and pleasure grounds, and a major tourist attraction. Part of the park and the main visitor route to the Mansion is crossed by an overhead power line that intrudes on the historic landscape. The 825m of powerline constitutes one the most significant modern intrusions on this landscape, impacting key parkland views, the settings of key buildings and tranquillity of the pleasure grounds.

The undergrounding scheme at Shugborough was proposed jointly by the AONB and the National Trust and will see overhead lines at Shugborough Estate removed to restore the historic character of this iconic Grade I listed park. Their removal will help the National Trust in their ambition to reinstate the historic beauty of the landscape and improve the visitor experience.

The final stages of the work are now underway to remove the overhead line and 10 wooden poles and place the service underground, along with repositioning the transformers to less obtrusive locations.

This is part of an ongoing £2.3 million regulatory-backed initiative funded by Western Power Distribution (WPD) to enhance protected landscapes.

Last year the AONB also secured funding from this initiative to underground overhead lines and so improve the landscape along Marquis Drive, between the White House to Moors Gorse.

Cannock Chase AONB Partnership wants to help farmers and land managers in the AONB prepare for the changes being introduced to agricultural support over the next few years.

Change is coming

The face of UK agriculture is changing.  From 2021 direct payments (the Basic Payment Scheme) will be phased out in the lead up to the roll out of a new Environmental Land Management Scheme (ELM) in 2024 which will focus on:

• Improving the environment
• Improving animal health and welfare
• Reducing carbon emissions

Farming in Protected Landscapes

To help farmers and land managers in AONBs (as well as National Parks) prepare for these changes, from April 2021-24 Defra is introducing a new ‘Farming in Protected Landscapes’ scheme.  This will provide advice and funding for those in nationally protected landscapes to manage the natural environment, cultural heritage and public access.  The details of this scheme are still being prepared, but it appears it will be delivered through the AONBs and National Parks themselves.

Support for farmers in Cannock Chase AONB

In preparation for the new scheme, Cannock Chase AONB Partnership is beginning to contact all farmers and land managers who own or manage land within or in close proximity to Cannock Chase AONB.  To help with this task, they have appointed DJM Consulting and Arbor Vitae – two local rural consultancy firms with experience and expertise in land management.

Over the next few weeks, information will be shared about:

• Current opportunities with existing environmental schemes
• Future opportunities for farmers and land managers in ELM and Farming in Protected Landscapes
• Future opportunities as part of farmer networks in the AONB

To learn more about the needs of the farming and landowning community in the AONB and to provide tailored support through the next few years, farmers and landowners are also being invited to complete a survey and take part in small group discussions and one to one meetings.  Due to the current restrictions, these will all take place remotely using videoconferencing/teleconferencing.

Next Steps

• Get in touch with Marie Charles at DJM Consulting if you farm and manage land in Cannock Chase AONB and want to take part and receive further communications:

Office line:       01746 714089

Mobile:            07803 533461

Email:              marie@theruralbusiness.co.uk

• Take part in the survey. If you prefer to, you can also complete this survey over the phone with Marie – call on 01746 714089 today.
• Register for one of the free online workshops in February or March
• Spread the word – mention this to your neighbours, family members or friends who farm or manage land in the AONB.

This February the AONB, together with the countryside charity CPRE, are inviting everyone to take part in Star Count 2021, a fun and easy way to enjoy the wonders of the universe.

Dark starry skies are a magical sight, but glare from streetlights and buildings can mean that many of us don’t get to see them. Just 3% of people in England experience ‘truly dark skies’. Locally, Cannock Chase has the highest levels of light pollution of all England’s 34 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs). The AONB is affected by light spillage from nearby towns, but remains an oasis of darkness relative to the surroundings. Cannock Chase AONB wants to conserve its dark skies for people to enjoy and for nature to thrive, and as part of a wider project is joining with CPRE this year to study our starry skies. You can find out more about the AONB’s Dark Skies project on our website.

If you live in or around Cannock Chase AONB we need your help to count the stars, and we hope you will join CPRE’s Star Count. Anyone can take part in the survey by choosing a clear night between 6-14 February and counting the number of stars they can see within the constellation of Orion. It’s easy to do, and does not require a telescope or any other equipment. This year CPRE is asking everyone to take part from home: from a garden, balcony, doorstep or even bedroom window. It’s a family-friendly activity that’s quick and easy to do, even during lockdown, and can help more of us experience the beauty of a starry sky.

The results will help CPRE create an interactive map of the nation’s view of the night sky. Locally the results of this cosmic census will help the AONB Partnership in their work to reduce light pollution and keep the night skies above Cannock Chase special.

Councillor Frances Beatty, Chair of Cannock Chase AONB Joint Committee, commented:

“The amount of artificial light from growing conurbations surrounding Cannock Chase is damaging its natural world and reducing our ability to see dark skies. The need to protect and restore the rhythm of night and day has never been more urgent and we want decision makers to address artificial light pollution in their policies for the AONB and its surroundings. Plants and animals depend on the circadian rhythm of light and dark to govern life-sustaining behaviours such as reproduction, food, sleep and protection from predators. Artificial light has negative effects on many creatures, including amphibians, birds, mammals, invertebrates and plants, which impacts on the sensitive habitats on the Chase. Darkness at night should be an integral part of its landscape, adding to its tranquillity and sense of remoteness. We want to ensure that our skies don’t get any lighter, and that looking up at a starry sky is something we can continue to experience and enjoy.”

Crispin Truman, chief executive of CPRE, the countryside charity, said:

‘A starry night sky is one of the most magical sights the countryside can offer, connecting us to the nature we all love and the wonders of the wider universe. Dark skies are also crucial for our health and for that of wildlife. Lockdown and the coronavirus have reminded us about how good for us the countryside can be.

‘But many places suffer from light pollution, bleaching out the night sky. We want to change this. By taking part in Star Count, people will be contributing to citizen science, helping us to lobby the government for more protection of this too often overlooked, but vital, part of our countryside’.

For more information about how to take part in the Star Count and to download a free family activity pack, visit CPRE’s website.