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Kent's countryside has a rich variety of landscapes and
small settlements shaped by a dynamic history and a changing rural
economy.
Currently in Kent there are 12 national nature reserves, five of
which are managed by Natural
England (link opens in a new window) and seven by approved
bodies. There are also over 50 local nature reserves and 101 sites
of special scientific interest.
The distinctive features of Kent's landscape and heritage, and
the identity and character of rural settlements, make up what many
recognise as the distinctiveness of the 'Garden of England'.
Changes affecting our landscape
The pace of change has intensified over the past 50 years and
Kent's rural areas now face many pressures from changing social and
cultural needs.
These pressures arise with new demands from agriculture,
horticulture and other land uses including new development.
Protecting our countryside
The challenge is to foster sensitive rural planning and land
management to ensure that the countryside is best used.
This means ensuring it is not only a productive agricultural
resource but also an environment where people can enjoy a high
quality of life.
By protecting parts of our countryside we can be sure that the
quality of life in Kent is maintained, whilst making it possible to
identify areas in which development can take place with minimal
impact on the environment.
There are many different types of protected area and Kent is
fortunate in that it has a large number of sites which are worth
protecting, including two areas of outstanding natural
beauty. |