National planning policy states that AONBs have the highest status of protection in the planning system, but planning policies for AONBs are often not being properly applied and followed.
That is the key finding of an important report just published by the National Trust which reviews how AONBs in England are being dealt with by the planning system, where the failings are, and how things can be done better. The study examined a series of case studies where major developments have been approved in AONBs by planning authorities and the Planning Inspectorate, but against the recommendation of the local AONB offices. See http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/documents/national-trust-areas-of-outstanding-natural-beauty-and-development.pdf
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