Planning policy plays a central role in guiding how development and land use change are managed to conserve and enhance the National Park’s special qualities, while supporting the social and economic wellbeing of its communities.
Our planning policies are set out primarily in the Local Plan, which provides the framework for determining planning applications and shaping future development. These policies seek to ensure that development is appropriate in scale, design, and location, reflects the distinctive character of the New Forest, and protects its landscape, biodiversity, cultural heritage, and tranquillity. At the same time, planning policy recognises the need for sustainable development, including providing homes, local services, employment opportunities, and infrastructure that meet local needs.
In preparing and implementing planning policy, we work closely with local communities, partner organisations, and neighbouring authorities. All policies are developed to meet national planning policy and legislation, while giving particular weight to the statutory purposes of National Parks: to conserve and enhance natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage, and to promote opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the National Park’s special qualities by the public.
