The work by Test Valley Borough Council will focus on protecting the River Test, its tributaries and other chalk streams across the borough and beyond. The rolling chalk hills, ancient woodlands, historic villages and the River Test create a landscape rich in wildlife, heritage and character. "While achieving National Landscape status isn’t easy, we believe this is worth pursuing, and it would also be worth knowing what other avenues could be explored to make sure it’s protected for the future. A National Landscape designation is made by Natural England and is one of the highest forms of landscape protection in the country. If National Landscape status is unattainable, initial investigations will also determine what other potential protection designations could be pursued, such as green infrastructure planning or Local Nature Recovery strategies.