information on the first international treaty specifically on landscape

European Landscape Convention

Winter of of Cat Bells mountain
“Landscape means an area, as perceived by people, whose character is the result of the action and interaction of natural and/or human factors.” (European Landscape Convention, 2000)

The European Landscape Convention (ELC) is a new instrument devoted exclusively to the protection, management and planning of all landscapes in Europe.

The ELC, signed by the UK government on 24 February 2006, was ratified by the Council of Europe on the 21 November 2006. The Convention became binding on the UK from 1 March 2007.

It highlights the importance and need for public involvement in the development of landscapes. It encourages a joined up approach through policy and planning in all areas of land-use, development and management, including the recognition of landscape in law. The Convention promotes landscape protection, management and planning, and European co-operation on landscape issues.

Speaking at the time of the UK's signing of the convention, Natural England's Director of Policy Andrew Wood said: “This is good news for landscape and Natural England. Effective, forward looking sustainable planning and management of landscapes everywhere will be at the heart of Natural England’s work, for the delivery of a better natural environment and the wider benefits that distinctive landscapes brings to people and places.”

The UK is recognised as already putting much of the principles of the ELC into practice. Our distinctive landscapes contribute to our identity and reflect local cultural influences as well as ecological diversity. This is shown through the Joint Character Area map of England and also through the well established practice of using landscape character assessment to inform local policy making.

European Landscape Convention -  A Framework for Implementation

Natural England has worked with Defra and English Heritage to produce a framework for implementating the ELC in England, published in October 2007.

This framework seeks to further strengthen the protection, management and planning of landscape in England by providing a structure for Action Plans of partners and stakeholders.  It underpins a wide range of activities which, through public engagement and stakeholder involvement, will lead to wider understanding and appreciation, improved knowledge and care as well as a sense of inspiration, well-being and connection between people and place.

A copy of the document 'European Landscape Convention - A Framework for Implementation' is available by clicking on the link on the right.

For further information about the framework for implementing the ELC in England, contact Richard Partington at:
Richard.Partington@naturalengland.org.uk