Planning: Sites of Special Scientific Interest
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that the planning system provides adequate protection for sites of ecological value prior to designation as Sites of Special Scientific Interest.
Answered by Matthew Pennycook
The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and associated Planning Practice Guidance are material considerations in the planning process.
The NPPF makes clear that planning policies and decisions should contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by protecting and enhancing sites of geological value and soils. It also stipulates that development proposals should ensure that a site is suitable for its proposed use, taking account of ground conditions and any risks arising from land instability and contamination.
Between 16 December 2025 and 10 March 2026, the government consulted on a new NPPF. The consultation on the revised Framework, which can be found on gov.uk here, included proposals in respect of sites of biodiversity value.
We are currently analysing the feedback received and will publish our response in due course.
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