Susanna Gillman,
PlanningResource,
27 May 2008
Tighter planning rules for England's World Heritage Sites have been proposed by the government to give greater protection to the historical landmarks.
Under plans announced for consultation today, all 17 sites would be put on the same footing as conservation areas, national parks and areas of outstanding beauty.
The change aims to prevent minor development occurring without planning permission.
The DCLG said seemingly minor changes such as roof alterations, new buildings nearby or artificial stoning could when added together have a devastating impact on a World Heritage Site.
Currently more than half of these sites including the Tower of London, Hadrian’s Wall, the Ironbridge Gorge, Maritime Greenwich and Durham Castle are not in previously protected conservation areas.
The Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape, the most recently recognised site which is particularly vulnerable, will be covered for the first time.
The development controls are also extended across Stonehenge, Blenheim Palace, the City of Bath, Christchurch College in Canterbury, the Dorset and Devon ‘Jurassic’ Coast, Derwent Valley Mills and Lime Street Station in Liverpool.
English Heritage is also publishing guidance that gives detailed advice on how to give proper consideration and protections to World Heritage Sites.
Planning minister Baroness Andrews said: "We want to ensure our historic buildings, landmarks and our cultural treasures are preserved for current and future generations."
"We are changing the planning rules to give all English World Heritage Sites the best protection from potentially damaging developments that could threaten authenticity, accessibility and charm or character."
English Heritage head of world heritage and international policy Christopher Young, said: “This new planning circular will offer the basic protection that should be expected for sites of such outstanding international importance.”
