Policy S6: Kent Downs National Landscape

Support

Representation ID: 4770

Received: 10/08/2025

Respondent: Kent Downs AONB Unit

We support this Policy and welcome the inclusion of a specific Kent Downs National Landscape strategic policy in the Local Plan.

Object

Representation ID: 4804

Received: 10/08/2025

Respondent: Mrs Gillian Mulloy

Legally compliant? Yes

Sound? No

Duty to co-operate? No

The policy states major development will only be allowed in “exceptional circumstances” and if it’s “in the public interest.” This aligns with national planning frameworks but is inherently subjective and open to interpretation by decision-makers.

The policy requires development proposals to demonstrate conformity with the Kent Downs National Landscape Management Plan and related landscape assessments. This provides a technical basis for decision-making.

The policy calls for mitigation of adverse impacts and encourages enhancement opportunities, which provides some flexibility but can also lead to compromises rather than outright protection.