§ Mr. WigleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will state what his policy is with regard to development control over agricultural developments in areas of outstanding natural beauty and areas designated as heritage coasts.
§ Mr. RobertsMost agricultural development is permitted under the Town and Country Planning General Development Order 1988 and does not require specific planning consent. Where planning consent is required and524W the development proposed—whether it be agricultural or not—is in an area of outstanding natural beauty, it is important that its design and appearance, as well as its location, are subject to special scrutiny to ensure that the development fits properly into its surroundings. Attention should be paid not only to the natural scenery but to the traditional character of buildings in the area and the use of local materials. Similar considerations apply to those stretches of coast of particular scenic quality which have been designated as heritage coasts. Here, too, special care is needed to ensure that the beauty of these areas is protected.