On 22 November 2023 all designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in England and Wales became 'National Landscapes'. Their legal designation and policy status remain the same.
In government planning policy National Landscapes are deemed to have the same level of landscape quality and protection as National Parks.
The planning system has an important role in preventing inappropriate development from harming the special qualities of the Shropshire Hills, while also having a role in facilitating appropriate and sustainable forms of development.
The responsibility for planning policy and decisions within the Shropshire Hills National Landscape rests with our two unitary authorities; Shropshire Council and Telford & Wrekin Council. They have a legal duty under S85 Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 to have regard to the purposes of the 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty' in carrying out planning and other functions.
In addition, our statutory Management Plan for the Shropshire Hills, though not part of the Local Development Framework, contains policies on many issues and is a material consideration in planning decisions.
Our Partnership works to a Planning Protocol agreed with the local authorities, outlining the roles of the planning authorities and the Partnership in relation to planning matters in the Shropshire Hills National Landscape.
For general information about all aspects of planning, click below
