Seahouses lies on The Northumberland Coast which has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) since 1958 in recognition of the quality of the landscape. AONBs are a national landscape designation and together with National Parks they make up our finest landscapes.

The Northumberland Coast AONB Partnership

The Northumberland Coast AONB Partnership is a broad partnership of representatives from local authorities, statutory organisations, interest groups and the local community. The Partnership guides management of the AONB, offers advice to land managers and the local community and takes action to improve the well being of the AONB for all those who value it, now and in the future.

The Northumberland Coast AONB Management Plan

In autumn 2004 the AONB Partnership launched the first statutory Management Plan for the AONB (2004-2009). This document sets out the main issues relating to the conservation and enhancement of the landscape of the AONB, and prescribes a series of policies and actions to address these issues. The Management Plan was developed through consultation with people living and working in the AONB. Both the Sustainable Development Fund and the Small Grant Scheme aim to assist with putting this plan into action.

Northumberland Coast Sustainable Development Fund

The Sustainable Development Fund is provided by DEFRA to all 37 AONBs in England, administered via the Countryside Agency.

Sustainable Development Funds have already successfully been run for AONBs in Wales and the Lincolnshire Wolds AONB, and in the Welsh and English National Parks. During 2005/06, Defra gave all other AONBs the opportunity to run similar funds in their area.

Northumberland Coast Small Grant Scheme

The Small Grant Scheme is funded by Leader Plus North Northumberland, the Countryside Agency and Northumberland County Council.

Website: www.northumberlandcoastaonb.org