This report presents the findings of the Natural Beauty Assessment undertaken for areas within and surrounding the Cheshire Sandstone Ridge. It identifies landscapes that are likely to meet Natural England’s criteria for Natural Beauty and could form a provisional Candidate Area for potential designation as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
The assessment followed the process set out in Natural England’s Guidance for Assessing Landscapes for Designation as a National Park or AONB (updated June 2021). It was informed by detailed desk studies, extensive field survey work, and engagement with local authorities and technical stakeholders. This Natural Beauty Assessment is one of three technical assessments in the statutory designation process, alongside consideration of the desirability of designation and the definition of a detailed boundary.
At the time of commissioning, Natural England intended to complete the full designation process for the Cheshire Sandstone Ridge. However, in May 2025, Defra confirmed it could no longer fund the National Landscapes designation programme. As a result, Natural England made the difficult decision to stop work on the Cheshire project.
Although the designation process has been discontinued, Natural England is committed to sharing relevant evidence that may be valuable to Local Authorities, partners, and stakeholders. This report, therefore, publishes the Natural Beauty Assessment, which outlines the levels of natural beauty identified within the study area.
The findings are intended to support local planning, conservation, and landscape enhancement initiatives.