Landscape Champions: Countryside Commission

2018 marks the 50th anniversary of the Countryside Commission, the non-departmental public body set up to champion the landscape and public enjoyment of the countryside. Over the years, the Countryside Commission has made an outstanding contribution to the ongoing improvement of landscapes in rural areas.

The Commission runs many initiatives and programmes and makes this public information, such as guidance publications and training, a central part of its work. Many of the Commission’s proposals have been ahead of their time at publication and subsequently adopted as wider government policy. This small multidisciplinary agency of landscape professionals (architects, planners, conservation and recreation experts) works closely with a wide range of other professionals, forming strong working relationships.

The Commission has formed alliances across the public sector – in particular with local authorities and the voluntary sector – and also with private owners and land managers. On average two-thirds of its government funding went towards grant-aided projects with these partners. Its flexible programme approach enables the Commission to advance countryside policy and practice. The work of the Countryside Commission – its ideas and approaches, as well as their challenges – are reflected both nationally and internationally.