BEAUTIFUL areas of countryside in Wiltshire are to be safeguarded for future generations. Wiltshire County Council has formally adopted management plans covering the North Wessex Downs, Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs, and the Cotswold areas of outstanding beauty.

Cllr Fleur de Rhe-Philipe, cabinet member for environment, transport and economic development, said: "These management plans will play a key role in protecting and enhancing the beautiful landscape that makes Wiltshire so special.

"They ensure we get the best from our countryside today while ensuring it will also be there in the future for people's continued enjoyment."

Altogether 44 per cent of Wiltshire is part of the nationally important AONBs and the plan provides clear objectives, policies and actions to help conserve and enhance these areas.

Once the plans have been adopted by all local authorities they will be sent to the Government.