Tougher controls unveiled over development at World Heritage Sites

The Government has begun consulting on changes to the planning regime for World Heritage Sites like Stonehenge, the Tower of London, the Ironbridge Gorge and Durham Castle and Cathedral.

For the first time under these proposals all seventeen of the English sites will be put on the same footing as conservation areas, national parks and areas of outstanding natural beauty. A planning circular will be issued later this year.

Currently over half the sites are not in previously protected conservation areas. The changes now out for consultation will prevent minor developments being allowed. In the future changes such as roof alterations, new buildings nearby or artificial stoning will not be allowed without specific permission.

The Government has already consulted earlier this year on whether all major planning applications at World Heritage Sites should be automatically considered as national "call-in" decisions.

The development control measures planned will cover Blenheim Palace; the City of Bath; Christchurch College in Canter bury; the Dorset and Devon 'Jurassic' Coast; Derwent Valley Mills; Lime Street station in Liverpool; Hadrian's Wall and Maritime Greenwich.

In addition English Heritage has published detailed guidance on how World Heritage Sites should be given proper consideration and protection.

Communities minister Baroness Andrews said: "We are changing the planning rules to give all English World Heritage Sites the best protection from potentially damaging developments that could threaten the authenticity, accessibility and charm or character of our most important places."

Dr Christopher Young, head of international policy with English Heritage, said: "This new planning circular will offer the basic protection that should be expected for sites of such outstanding international importance."

Read the Communities and Local Government news release

Roger Milne

29 May 2008