National plans and policies
Central Government currently sets out national planning policy in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) which can be viewed on the Department for Communities and Local Government website.
The NPPF is supported by the Planning Practice Guidance which gives further detail on the implementation of National Policies.
National Landscapes (Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty)
National Landscapes (formerly known as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty) are areas of precious landscape whose distinctive character and natural beauty are so outstanding that it is in the nation's interest to safeguard them.
There are 34 National Landscapes in England, created by the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949.
The Sevenoaks District includes areas of the High Weald National Landscape to the south and Kent Downs National Landscape to the north. Both have management plans and guidance on conserving and enhancing the landscape. For further details please visit:
Note: Their legal designation remains as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and references to this will remain in use.