Chichester Harbour Conservancy - Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Planning

Latest News

• There are fears new buildings could sprout up across the Chichester Harbour area ‘without due regard to its quality or location’ after the government announced its new National Planning Policy Framework plans. Chichester Harbour Conservancy has warned the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is under threat. The government’s intention is to move away from the current plan-led system to one that gives priority to economic growth. For more information read the press release. 2 December 2011

The Conservancy's Role

Chichester Harbour was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) for its unique landscape. Within all AONB's the purpose of the planning system is to ensure that any change through development conserves or enhances the natural beauty of the landscape. The Conservancy therefore comments on any changes to planning policy at national, regional or local levels - planning decisions on new development requiring planning permission are made in accordance with these planning policies.

The Conservancy is also consulted on all planning applications within the AONB boundary by either Havant Borough Council or Chichester District Council, and also those applications on or just outside of the boundary that are visible from within the AONB. The Conservancy is asked to comment on the impact of development on the AONB landscape or nature conservation and also takes into account the socio-economic benefit of such developments on the AONB. The Conservancy bases its responses on the development plan policies for Havant Borough Council and Chichester District Council, the Chichester Harbour AONB Management Plan and other planning guidance.

The greatest pressure for development for Chichester Harbour AONB is from replacement or new dwellings and extensions in or close to the AONB boundary. As a result the two local planning authorities within the AONB, Chichester District Council and Havant Borough Council in conjunction with the Conservancy have created Design Guidelines for New Dwellings and Extensions.

Please download and carefully consider the guidelines for your area. If you need further assistance do not hesitate to contact the Harbour Office, Chichester District Council or Havant Borough Council.

Design Guidelines for New Dwellings and Extensions

The guidelines can be downloaded as a pdf document. Please ensure you read your area in conjunction alongside the General Guidance.

Design Guidelines for New Buildings and Extensions (2MB)

Landscape Character Assessment

The Landscape Character Assessment was produced by Chris Blandford Associates in 2005. It can be downloaded as a pdf document, however please note the large file size.

Works Licence

To construct, alter, renew or extend any works on, under or over tidal waters or tidal lands below the level of high water in Chichester Harbour needs a works licence issued by Chichester Harbour Conservancy. Please carefully read through the Guidance Notes with the Application Form - see the Additional Downloads panel.

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