Natural England - How are landscapes protected?
How are landscapes protected?
Landscapes are protected by a range of mechanisms including statutory and non-statutory designations and planning policies.
Statutory designations
Nationally important landscapes are protected through legislation. Following post-war movements to protect the countryside, areas were given protective designation under the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949. This act set out to conserve and enhance certain areas for their natural beauty, with areas designated either as National Parks or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs).
It is now Natural England's role to designate National Parks and AONBs.
Non-statutory designations
Although Heritage Coasts do not enjoy the same statutory status as National Parks and AONBs, most fall within one of these two designations.
World Heritage Sites are places of international importance for the conservation of our cultural and national heritage. The Dorset and East Devon WHS (also known as 'The Jurassic Coast') is the only site in England that has been designated primarily for its natural features.
The historic environment makes a particular contribution to the character and value of all of our landscapes.
Planning
Landscapes are protected through a range of planning policies and regulations.
The European Landscape Convention brings a European dimension to the protection and management of landscapes.