A PUBLIC consultation is currently underway on revisions to the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The public has from now until November 17, to comment on the AONB management plan for the local South Devon area. The new plan will cover the period from 2014 to 2019.

The plan is a comprehensive summary of priorities to protect this nationally important area for future generations. Prepared by the AONB partnership, the plan, when finalised, will be adopted by the local authorities as required under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. For each of the management themes, issues, objectives and actions are identified.

There have been numerous changes over the past five years, this consultation is an opportunity for the public to comment on whether the new plan has adequately addressed these changes.

AONB manager, Robin Toogood, said: 'The plan is not just an internal document for the AONB partnership and staff unit, but provides a voice for the protected landscape itself, harnessing the actions of all who live in it, work in it or visit it.

'It provides a useful starting point on a range of issues, creates the priorities for action needed for the South Devon AONB and defines the special qualities of the AONB.

'We welcome everyone's views whether on a single, or range of issues covered in the document.'

A short consultation document has been developed listing the changes proposed, together with a series of simple questions to make the task of providing feedback straightforward. The consultation document can be found by following the link from the home page of the AONB website: http://www.southdevonaonb.org.uk">www.southdevonaonb.org.uk. Comments can also be made by hand and posted to the AONB unit at Follaton House, Plymouth Road, Totnes, TQ9 5NE. Further information is available from the AONB unit on 01803 861384.