Kent Downs National Landscape

Borden residents invited to help shape the future of the Kent Downs National Landscape

Borden residents, businesses, farmers and organisations are being invited to help shape the future of the Kent Downs National Landscape as a public consultation opens on their draft Management Plan for the protected landscape.

The consultation runs from 21 May to 19 July 2026 and gives people the opportunity to share their views on how the Kent Downs should be cared for, enhanced and enjoyed in the years ahead.

The Kent Downs is one of Kent’s most treasured landscapes, home to the North Downs Way National Trail and part of the aspiring UNESCO Cross-Channel Geopark.

The Management Plan helps shape priorities and decisions for nature recovery, farming, climate action, access, planning and sustainable tourism across the Kent Downs. It is used by local councils, farmers, landowners, community groups, businesses and residents to help guide the future of the landscape.

The draft Management Plan follows an extensive public engagement phase, in which more than 1,200 people and organisations took part. They shared what they value about the landscape, what they think makes it special, and what matters most when it comes to its future care and enjoyment. This feedback has directly shaped the draft Plan now being consulted on.

Responses highlighted the Kent Downs’ ancient woodlands, chalk grasslands, orchards, wildlife, heritage, iconic white cliffs and peaceful landscapes as some of its most valued features.

Covering almost a quarter of Kent, the Kent Downs National Landscape stretches from the White Cliffs of Dover to the Surrey border and is one of the South East’s most visited and valued landscapes.

The area contains internationally important habitats and heritage, including rare chalk grasslands, ancient woodlands and globally important chalk streams. These support nationally rare species such as the early spider-orchid, lady orchid, Adonis blue butterfly and Duke of Burgundy butterfly.

All responses received during the consultation period will help shape the final Management Plan before it is considered later this year.

People can view the draft Management Plan and take part in the consultation at: www.kent.gov.uk/kentdowns