Heritage - Landscape
The landscape of East Hampshire is a rich and varied mosaic. Over 40% of the District has been designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and more recently 60% has been included within the boundaries of the designated South Downs National Park.
Landscape Officer
The District Council has one Landscape Officer whose job is to protect and enhance the very fine landscapes which characterise the district and to assess the impact of new development upon the wider landscape.
Landscape Character Assessment
East Hampshire District Council employed consultants in 2005-2006 to produce a landscape character appraisal of the district. The objective was to produce a comprehensive assessment of all aspects of the landscape character of East Hampshire.
The results of this study will help in the preparation of the Local Development Framework as well as for evaluating planning applications. It will be very useful too for those preparing Village Design Statements and Parish Plans.
Follow this link to view the study online, or a copy of the report can be seen in Planning Reception of EHDC's offices at Penns Place in Petersfield.
For information on those areas in the District within the designated South Downs National Park take a look at the South Downs Integrated Landscape Character Assessment on the South Downs Online website.
Environmental Enhancement Grants
Grants are available to help projects which will improve the local environment. These projects can cover a wide range of different activities, but to qualify there must be a clear public benefit. Contact the Heritage Team on 01730 234214 for more information. You can download the application form here.
Countryside Design Summary
The Countryside Design Summary was approved as Supplementary Planning Guidance in May 1999. It was part of the Countryside Commission's initiative to meet the challenge of designing new development which sustains and enhances the distinctive characteristics of the English countryside. It shows how development can be accommodated which recognises and reflects the local landscape character and distinctiveness.
You can download the Countryside Design Summary as a 34 page booklet.
Trees
Approximately 17% of the District is wooded and about 820 Tree Preservation Orders have been made to protect important trees within the District. Click here to find out more.
Hedgerow Regulations
The Hedgerow Regulations 1997 were introduced to control the loss of hedgerows in the countryside.
Find out which hedges are covered and how to apply to remove a hedgerow
High Hedges
In June 2005 the Government brought in measures to tackle the problem of high hedges in urban areas.
Find out what the regulations are and how to make a complaint