The Campaign for National Parks, the National Trust (NT) and the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) have reported the findings from research into the planning process for major developments in, or just outside, National Parks and how their protection should be strengthened.
The National Parks: Planning for the Future report summarises the key findings from recent research that the CPRE commissioned from Sheffield Hallam University. This examined the planning process for major developments in, or just outside, National Parks and sets out recommendations on how to improve their protection.
It includes two short case studies on a potash mine in the North York Moors National Park and a solar farm in the New Forest National Park.
Its recommendations include:
- the Government should reconfirm its commitment to National Parks in the forthcoming 25 Year Plan for the Environment by clearly stating how they will ensure their long-term protection and enhancement
- National Park Authorities should ensure their local plans are clear about how the major development test should be applied in relation to the special qualities of the National Park in order to help reinforce and support local decision-making.
