Planning Policy
Planning Policy
Why do we need strong planning policies for The Broads?
Like the national parks, The Broads is a national asset. It has experienced steady development over many years, although the rate of development has fluctuated. As roads to the region improve, The Broads will continue to be an attractive area in which to live and work, or to visit. The wetland environment and the character of Broads villages are likely to come under increased development pressures related to tourism and other activities.
New developments need to be carefully considered on the basis of agreed policies. They must be well designed and carefully sited if they are to avoid looking out of place. In the past, badly designed and poorly located new buildings have damaged the distinctive character and landscape of The Broads. Other developments have damaged precious and fragile wildlife habitats. On the other hand, appropriately sited, well designed development of a good quality can enhance the area.
Strong planning policies are needed to control and guide new development and protect The Broads, making it a better place to live in and to visit. At the same time, development must be allowed to meet the needs of local people and the local economy.
Development Plan
Planning policies for The Broads are contained in the Development Plan. This consists of the relevant policies of the Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) for the East, also known as the East of England Plan, the adopted Core Strategy and the Broads Local Plan. Decisions by the Broads Authority on planning applications are made in accordance with these policies, while also taking into account other relevant matters, including the Government's planning guidance and local representations.
Local Development Framework
Following changes in planning legislation introduced under the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, the Broads Authority is gradually replacing the Broads Local Plan and linked supplementary planning guidance with a new set of planning policy documents known as the Local Development Framework.
Other Documents
The Broads Authority also produces other planning documents from time to time. The purpose of these may be to provide more detailed guidance on aspects of policy (e.g. a Supplementary Planning Document) or for a particular site (e.g. a Development Brief) or general planning information. These documents can be found on our Planning Publications page.
