Historic parks and gardens across Britain are at risk due to proposed changes to planning rules, according to a report by the Gardens Trust. The charity warns that removing its statutory consultee status from the planning process in England could leave these green spaces vulnerable to developers.
The report highlights that more than 1,700 designed landscapes, including Hampton Court Palace, Chatsworth, and Birkenhead Park, are listed on the register of parks and gardens of special historic interest. Without mandatory consultation, local planning authorities may approve developments that harm these sites.
The Gardens Trust estimates that historic parks save the NHS £111 million annually and generated £2 billion from overseas tourists in 2023. They also provide vital habitats for wildlife and help mitigate climate change by storing carbon and reducing flood risks.
The charity’s chairman, John Watkins, said: “The impact of removing statutory consultee status from the Gardens Trust is potentially devastating for the conservation and use of parks and gardens nationwide.” He added that the loss of expert input would lead to a lack of understanding by planning authorities, increasing risks to valued public spaces.
The trust made only 69 objections to planning applications last year, including schemes for 1,135 new homes on protected sites. Its work as a consultee costs taxpayers less than £44,000 annually, compared to an estimated £10 million if local authorities hired additional staff.
The Gardens Trust is calling for greater investment, better recognition of these landscapes, and improved expertise in local planning authorities to ensure historic parks and gardens can continue to support communities, health, and the environment.
