As a Sussex MP, a county blessed with some of the most quintessentially British scenery, I wholeheartedly agree that our planning system should protect important natural landscapes and heritage assets. I also believe the historic landscapes that inspired some of our country’s most treasured works of literature should be protected for future generations to enjoy.
While literary landscapes are not subject to a separate designation within the planning system, I understand that they are protected more generally through the National Planning Policy Framework. The framework sets out planning policy for local authorities in England and makes clear that historic environments should be conserved in a manner appropriate to their significance, so that they can be enjoyed for their contribution.
The last Conservative Government was clear about the importance of local authorities having an up-to-date local plan in place, ensuring that local people have a platform to shape their surroundings. Local plans can protect the important landscapes communities cherish and direct homes to the places local people prefer. I am pleased the last Government passed legislation which increases the weight given to local plans when making decisions on applications, so that there must be strong reasons to override the plan.
The Labour Government have now published their reforms to the NPPF and I am deeply concerned their plans prioritise building in rural areas, including plans to centralise powers that can force building on the Greenbelt.
Please be assured I will always call on the Government to prevent unsustainable development, protect our green spaces and for the voices of local people to be heard.
Here is a link to my letter to Secretary of State on the NPPF/Planning Consultation here: Mims Davies MP letter to Secretary of State on NPPF/Planning Consultation September 24
