National Landscapes have the highest status of protection in relation to landscape and scenic beauty.
In these areas the conservation of natural beauty of the landscape and countryside is given great weight in planning policies and development control decisions.
There are two National Landscapes within Dorset designated because of their landscape quality and beauty:
- the Dorset National Landscape taking in some 1,128 square kilometres
- a large section of the Cranborne Chase National Landscape taking in a further 278 square kilometres
Guidance on development within National Landscapes can be found in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). National Landscapes in England are designated by Natural England.
Major proposals will need to be proved to be in the public interest before being allowed to go ahead. We have to ensure that any planning permission granted for major developments in these designated areas should be carried out to high environmental standards. This can be done by adding appropriate conditions where needed.