The Natural Zone

The Peak District National Park has identified areas of moor, heath and woodland which are particularly important to conserve under Section 3 of the Wildlife and Countryside (Amendment) Act, (opens new window) 1995, and, together with the limestone dales, has mapped these as the Natural Zone.

Land in the  Natural Zone has the wildest character, so is where development has the most likelihood of having an adverse impact. There is a presumption against development of any kind in the Natural Zone through Core Strategy Policy L1 (opens new window) in the Local Plan.

By limiting development in the Natural Zone, we can help to protect both the character of the landscape and the wildlife that lives there.

Recent unauthorised moorland tracks have highlighted the potential for interpretation of the policy wording ‘development essential for the maintenance of the Natural Zone’, and the lack of awareness of requirements for planning permission in these areas, even with other consents in place. The review of the Local Plan presents an opportunity to ensure policy wording reflects nature’s current and future needs of the Natural Zone.