In a controversial move that has heritage organisations deeply concerned, the UK government is proposing planning changes that could remove vital protections from hundreds of historic gardens and parks across England.
The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has quietly introduced amendments to the National Planning Policy Framework that would downgrade the significance of registered parks and gardens in planning decisions. This could leave cherished green spaces vulnerable to development pressures.
What the Changes Mean for Heritage Sites
Under current regulations, local planning authorities must give "great weight" to conserving registered parks and gardens of special historic interest when considering development proposals. The new wording would reduce this to simply "considering" their conservation, significantly weakening their protected status.
Historic England maintains the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, which includes approximately 1,650 sites across England. These range from famous landscapes like Kew Gardens to local treasures in communities nationwide.
Expert Warnings and Conservation Concerns
Dr. Emma Temple, leading the campaign for the Gardens Trust, expressed grave concerns: "This represents the single biggest threat to historic designed landscapes in 40 years. We're talking about potentially irreversible damage to our national heritage."
The Gardens Trust has identified nearly 300 registered sites that have faced development threats in recent years, all of which would have been more vulnerable under the proposed changes.
Which Sites Are Most at Risk?
- Grade II listed parks and gardens with development potential
- Urban green spaces in high-value property areas
- Historic landscapes adjacent to expanding towns
- Gardens surrounding listed buildings where extensions are planned
Government Position and Next Steps
A government spokesperson stated the changes aim to "streamline the planning process while maintaining appropriate protections," but conservation groups argue the wording shift represents a significant dilution of heritage safeguards.
The consultation period for these planning reforms closes on March 11th, giving heritage organisations limited time to mount their opposition campaign.
With public awareness growing, the battle over Britain's historic landscapes is set to become a major test of the government's commitment to preserving the nation's green heritage for future generations.
