The South Downs National Park Authority is the statutory Planning Authority for the National Park area. It is the 8th largest in Britain in terms of planning applications received each year and also one of the largest in terms of the geographical area it covers.

The Role of the Authority

The role of the South Downs National Park as a Planning Authority is to control and influence the development of land and buildings within its boundaries. To do this effectively the SDNPA has to balance the statutory duties and purposes of the National Park, safeguarding the natural environment and existing built heritage, with the needs of individuals, the local population supporting rural communities and local businesses.

Partnership with Local Authorities

The SDNPA has agreed and implemented unique partnerships with the 15 Local Authorities operating within the Park boundaries, working alongside and overseeing applications to ensure that planning guidelines are adhered to.

Local Planning Authorities are responsible for the day to day processing and determination of the great majority of all planning applications (about 96%). The SDNPA will deal with applications for more significant development within the Park.

For more information please see follow the links on Planning Advice and Applying for Planning Permission.

Planning Policy

The South Downs National Park is now the Authority responsible for planning policy to find out more visit the Planning Policy section of this site.