Management Powers for the designation and management of AONBs are devolved to Wales, under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (CRoW Act). Under Section 82 of the CRoW Act, Natural Resources Wales (NRW) holds the right to designate any area of Wales, that is deemed to be of "outstanding natural beauty" worthy of conservation and enhancement that is not within a National Park, to be an AONB, following approval from the Welsh Government. NRW advises the government on any areas it deems suitable for AONB status, awards partnership funding to AONBs, and advises planning and development that may have an impact on the AONB.
Management Powers for the designation and management of AONBs are devolved to Wales, under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (CRoW Act). Under Section 82 of the CRoW Act, Natural Resources Wales (NRW) holds the right to designate any area of Wales, that is deemed to be of "outstanding natural beauty" worthy of conservation and enhancement that is not within a National Park to be an AONB, following approval from the Welsh Government. NRW advises the government on any areas it deems suitable for AONB status, awards partnership funding to AONBs, and advises planning and development that may have an impact on the AONB.