Land Use Proposals and Statutory Development Plans

The National Park Authority is both the local and strategic planning authority for the area. As a local planning authority, it is responsible for providing detailed land use policy for the area, which is currently set out in Local Plans. As a strategic planning authority, it is also responsible for preparing a Structure Plan for the area, which sets out broad locations for new development and determines how much development may occur, it also provides the strategic context for safeguarding the special qualities of the area.

Applications for planning permission are currently assessed against the policies within these plans. However, as a result of changes in legislation the Local and Structure Plans will over time be replaced by a Local Development Framework, which will comprise a number of policy documents that can be updated individually.

The Government sets down the shape of, and administers the planning system. It issues guidance to local planning authorities via national planning guidance. Further information on the planning system and development plans can be obtained from the Communities and Local Government website.

Regional planning guidance is prepared by the North East Assembly.

Local Government Service List Number 594

Email:forward.planning@nnpa.org.uk
Telephone: 01434 611577
Fax: 01434 611664