Dedham Vale AONB & Stour Valley Project
Bridge Cottage Env Agency James Fletcher cut

The Dedham Vale AONB and Stour Valley Project relies on the support of dedicated local authorities, Natural England and organisations to monitor and develop the work of the Project.

The local authorities, Natural England and other interested organisations have helped to protect the special qualities of the Stour valley since before the designation of the AONB in 1970.

The decision making group is known as the Joint Advisory Committee (JAC). The key role of the JAC is to have overall responsibility for the production, monitoring and implementation of the Management Strategy. It is also responsible for overseeing the work of the Project. 

Officer Steering Group
Who is it? Officers from local authorities, Natural England and AONB Manager
How often does it meet? At least twice a year
What does it do? The work of the Group is to approve and develop the business plan and work programme of the Project team.

CHAIR: Mr Adam John
 
Joint Advisory Committee
Who is it? Officers and elected councillors from the District and County councils in the Stour Valley and an officer of Natural England, AONB Manager and Operations Manager. 
How often does it meet? Meets at least twice a year
What does it do? Sets and monitors the Project budget.  Produce, monitor and reviews the Management Plan.

CHAIR: Cllr Nigel Chapman

Partnership
Who is it? Officers and elected councillors (as JAC) and representatives from agricultural and environmental organisations
How often does it meet? Meets at least twice a year
What does it do? Delivers actions from the Management Plan and considers issues affecting the AONB and Stour Valley.

CHAIR: Mr Robert Erith

Forum
Who is it? Individual landowners, businesses and interested individuals
How often does it meet? Once a year
What is it? A valley wide forum to champion the environmental and cultural quality of the Stour Valley.

Topic Working Groups
Dedham Vale Visitor Management Group

The following organisations contribute financially to the running of the Dedham Vale AONB & Stour Valley Project.  Contributions are based on the area each Local Authority has within the Project boundary. 

Babergh District Council www.babergh-south-suffolk.gov.uk

Braintree District Council www.braintree.gov.uk

Colchester Borough Council www.colchester.gov.uk

Essex County Council www.essexcc.gov.uk

Natural England www.naturalengland.org.uk

St Edmundsbury Borough Council www.stedmundsbury.gov.uk

Suffolk County Council www.suffolkcc.gov.uk

Tendring District Council www.tendringdc.gov.uk