HL Deb 17 July 2003 vol 651 cc182-4WA
Lord Livsey of Talgarth

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What specific production is given to areas of outstanding natural beauty to prevent leisure developments from proceeding; and [HL3961]

Which bodies are responsible for protecting the special nature of areas of outstanding natural beauty in (a) England and (b) Wales; and [HL3962]

What planning processes would apply to the development of a new motor racing circuit within an area of outstanding natural beauty. [HL3963]

Lord Whitty

Areas of outstanding natural beauty (AONBs) together with National Parks are recognised as our finest landscapes. They are given specific protection both in countryside legislation and in the planning system. For example, under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, all public bodies in both England and Wales must have regard to the purpose of conserving and enhancing the natural beauty of an AONB when exercising or performing any function in relation to, or so as to affect, land in that area.

Defra is responsible for AONBs in England, where the Countryside Agency acts as our advisor. AONBs in Wales are the responsibility of the National Assembly for Wales.

The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister is responsible for planning policies in England. These are administered on a day-to-day basis by local planning authorities. Planning Policy Guidance Notes 7, 17 and 21, deal respectively with the status of AONBs in relation to the countryside generally, sport and recreation, and tourism. All make clear that the need to conserve the landscape must be taken into account when considering proposals for development.

The permanent development of a motor racing circuit would require specific planning permission for which application should be made to the local planning authority.