Planning Policy and Guidance

In preparing policy for the National Park we must work to achieve the National Park statutory purposes:

• To conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage; and
• To promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities by the public.

In the interests of maintaining the close connections between local communities, economies and environmental conservation National Park Authorities have an additional statutory duty:

• In pursuing the purposes, the Authority should seek to foster the economic and social well-being of local communities within the National Park.

Management Plan

Northumberland National Park Authority has a duty to prepare a National Park Management Plan as the framework for the delivery of the National Park statutory purposes and duty.  The Management Plan is the single most important document for the National Park, setting out the guiding principles, vision, objectives and actions for managing the National Park.

Development Plan

Northumberland National Park Authority guide and control new development within the National Park : this includes new buildings, extensions to buildings, minerals and waste development, and the use of land and buildings.  If planning permission is needed then an application should be submitted to the Authority.  We then decide whether or not to grant planning permission based on our planning policies and other information.

Building Design Guide

The built environment of Northumberland National Park makes a major contribution to the special quality of the area. The Building Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document helps ensure that new development reflects this and contributes to the architectural heritage of the area.