Planning and the National Parks

National Parks have one of the highest levels of planning protection in England and Wales.  Government policy states that major developments should only occur in National Parks in exceptional circumstances.  It is the role of National Park Authorities to prepare planning policies and make planning decisions for their National Park.

CNP monitors, and where appropriate, comments on planning issues that affect National Parks.  CNP's involvement is dominated by work to influence national and local planning policies which help guide appropriate development to the best location.  We do not get involved in individual development control issues unless these are of major significance to the National Parks.  For example, the current proposal for a large wind turbine at Glyndebourne in the South Downs, which, if approved, could set a precedent for other large turbines.

The Government's Planning White Paper Planning for a Sustainable Future was published in May 2007 and sets out proposals for reforming the planning system, including changes to the decision making process for major infrastructure projects such as nuclear power stations and airport runways.  CNP's response can be read here. 

Planning Disaster is a coalition of organisations, including CNP, that are concerned about the proposed changes, especially in terms of the reduction in public involvement.  See this briefing paper for more information     

To find out more about the planning system in the UK and the protection of National Parks read our Planning and National Parks briefing paper

The following links take you directly to each National Park Authority’s planning pages