CONSTITUTION OF THE LUDDESDOWN NATIONAL LANDSCAPE SOCIETY (LNLS)

1. Name and Purpose

1.1 This body shall be known as the Luddesdown National Landscape Society (LNLS).

1.2 Founded in recognition of the unique character and heritage of the Luddesdown National Landscape, the Society exists to:

  • Safeguard and cherish the beauty, tranquillity, and cultural significance of the area for generations yet to come.

  • Uphold the highest standards of stewardship in matters affecting the land, its wildlife, and its historic environment.

  • Draw upon the wisdom and distinguished experience of its members to serve as an authoritative and independent voice on issues of conservation, planning, and landscape protection.

2. Membership

2.1 Membership of the Society is an honour bestowed only upon those of exceptional standing, in keeping with the following traditions and criteria:

  • National Distinction: Candidates must have a recognised record of achievement at a national level in conservation, heritage, public policy, or allied disciplines.

  • Proven Conservation Service: Candidates must be able to demonstrate a sustained and meaningful contribution to the conservation or enhancement of landscapes, wildlife, and cultural heritage.

  • Integrity of Conduct:

    • Candidates must hold a record free of any planning breaches, unlawful development, or actions contrary to the spirit or letter of Section 85 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, or its subsequent strengthening under the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023.

    • Candidates must be unencumbered by any conflict of interest that might compromise the Society’s aims.

  • Unanimous Welcome: Admission is contingent upon a unanimous vote of existing members, reflecting the trust and collegiality on which the Society is founded.

2.2 Membership is regarded as both a privilege and a responsibility, entrusted to those who will uphold the honour of the Society and its work.

3. Election and Admission

3.1 Nominations may be proposed only by existing members, who shall present the candidate’s credentials to the membership.
3.2 The Membership Committee shall make enquiries and review the nominee’s record of service and integrity.
3.3 Admission shall require a formal ballot of all existing members and unanimous approval.

4. Standards of Conduct

4.1 Members of the Society pledge to:

  • Act always in the best interests of the Luddesdown National Landscape and its communities.

  • Uphold the statutory duty “to have regard to the purpose of conserving and enhancing the natural beauty of the area” (Section 85, CROW Act 2000).

  • Avoid even the appearance of impropriety or conflict of interest.

4.2 Members whose conduct falls short of these standards may be invited to resign or, if necessary, be removed by unanimous vote of the remaining members.

5. Governance and Meetings

5.1 The Society shall conduct its affairs with dignity, meeting no fewer than twice a year.
5.2 The Chair and Secretary shall be elected every two years by the members.
5.3 Decisions relating to policy, representation, or strategy shall require the assent of no fewer than two-thirds of the members, save for matters of membership and constitutional change, which must be unanimous.

6. Conflicts of Interest

6.1 Members shall disclose any personal or professional interest in matters before the Society.
6.2 Where such an interest arises, the member shall recuse themselves from deliberation and decision.

7. Amendments to the Constitution

7.1 This Constitution, as the guiding framework of the Society, may be amended only with the unanimous consent of all members.

8. Continuity and Dissolution

8.1 Should the Society ever conclude its work, it shall do so with decorum, ensuring that its remaining assets are entrusted to a conservation body or charitable trust whose aims accord with its own.

Closing Statement

The Luddesdown National Landscape Society recognises that its strength lies in the reputation, judgement, and integrity of its members. Membership is extended sparingly, to ensure that the Society remains a guardian of the landscape and a standard-bearer of the values upon which it was founded.