From protected landscapes and World Heritage Sites to nationally significant infrastructure
Part one of a three-part series in which our Chair, Claire Pearce, celebrates what makes the South West such an exceptional place to live, work and thrive.
On a bright May day, I am struck by the beauty, quirks and diversity of the South West. The largest of the English Regions, spanning over 9,200 square miles, framed by the South West Coast Path stretching 630 miles from Minehead to Poole Harbour – Britain’s longest National Trail.
From the tranquil and peaceful enjoyment of the Quantocks national landscape, looking over Hinkley Point C, a nationally significant infrastructure project that’s one of the largest in terms of construction across Europe, I see investment integrated into place. Beyond this, I see jobs and business opportunities, whilst it continues to protect and respect sensitive landscapes… striking a progressive balance.
There is so much more to the South West than meets the eye. In this three-part series, I explore that which sits just below the surface, or what can often be overlooked, and set out what lies at the heart of the region which makes it such a special place to live, work and thrive.
the landscape
The Quantocks are an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) – officially rebranded and elevated to the name “National Landscapes” in November 2023 to establish an identity equal to that of National Parks. (Note: AONB remains the formal legal designation, and they are protected under the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act of 1949).
We are blessed with many other national landscape designations across the region from Cornwall to Devon and Dartmoor to wider Somerset and Dorset. Wiltshire is home to three distinct National Landscapes offering everything from sweeping chalk downlands to ancient woodlands.
The Dorset National Landscape is home to some of the most diverse landscapes in Britain, stretching along one of Britain’s finest coastlines – the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. These protected areas provide prime opportunities for walking, cycling and immersing yourself in nature: wild swimming, surfing, sailing, bird watching and more.
Other notable World Heritage Sites located in the South West include:
Stonehenge and Avebury (Wiltshire): One of the most famous prehistoric landscapes in the world. This site features the iconic stone circles of Stonehenge and the massive expanse of the Avebury henge, which date back over 4,000 to 5,000 years.
City of Bath (Somerset): Designated not only for its exceptionally preserved Roman Baths but also for its beautiful Georgian architecture that secured its status as one of the Great Spa Towns of Europe.
Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape: This site celebrates the region’s rich industrial heritage. It showcases the clifftop engine houses, deep-mine shafts, and mining ports that powered a global boom in copper and tin production in the 18th and 19th centuries. Complementing other assets such as Eden, the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Tintagel Castle and the Minack Theatre.
Which landscape means the most to you and why?
About Claire Pearce
Claire has over thirty years’ experience working across the public and private sectors in a diverse range of development roles, all with a key focus on place transformation, performance and delivery. With a demonstrable track record in nationally significant and complex regeneration projects, Claire has created the conditions to attract investment, transform places, and uplift opportunities for communities. Known for a pro-growth, pro-business approach, Claire has led and delivered considerable economic restructuring both in Reading and, more recently, in Bridgwater, Somerset, and has left a legacy that celebrates sustained economic growth.
Formerly Chief Planning Officer for Sedgemoor District Council, Claire led the public-sector response to Hinkley Point C, from strategy and negotiation through to implementation. She has provided strategic advice on Sizewell C and has served as the Director of Planning in the private sector for 5 years, reimagining the planning and regeneration strategy to create the Gravity project and securing the Tata/Agratas gigafactory into the UK.
