Our Role

The South Downs National Park Authority are responsible for waste and minerals policy, and all planning applications related to minerals and waste development in the National Park.

Minerals and waste development could impact on the qualities which make the National Park special – its landscapes and local distinctiveness.

Major development proposals will likely be refused unless they can be demonstrated that exceptional circumstances exist and the development is in the public interest in line with National Planning Guidance

We monitor existing mineral workings and waste sites to make sure that they comply with the conditions set out in their planning permissions and are also responsible for the enforcement of breaches of planning control.

Find out more about Monitoring Compliance for Minerals and Waste.

Planning Policy

We are responsible for planning for the future management of waste and production of minerals within the South Downs National Park area.

We have produced a guide on Understanding minerals and waste planning for District, Town and Parish Councils.

Through working in partnership we have adopted the following joint local plans. On our joint webpages you can find full details of the plans, background evidence, historic documents and consultations: