Methodology
| Name | Category | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty | Planning Constraints | This dataset provides the boundaries of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) which are designated under the Countryside Act of 1949. AONBs are sites of significant natural beauty and are protected for the enjoyment of present and future generations. They are distinct from National Parks as their primary purpose is not centred around recreational activities. |
| National Parks | Planning Constraints | This dataset provides the boundaries of National Parks, in place to conserve and enhance natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage while providing opportunities for public understanding and enjoyment. |
| Special Areas of Conservation | Planning Constraints | This dataset provides the boundaries of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), as designated under Directive 92/43/EEC of the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora, which aim to protect and conserve important habitats and species. |
| Special Protection Areas | Planning Constraints | This dataset provides the boundaries of Special Protection Areas (SPAs), as classified under Directive 79/409 on the Conservation of Wild Birds, which aim to protect and conserve wild bird species and their habitats. |
| Sites of Special Scientific Interest | Planning Constraints | This dataset provides the boundaries of Sites of Special Scientific Interest which are in place to protect areas that have notable scientific, geological, or ecological features. |
| Ramsar | Planning Constraints | This dataset provides the boundaries of Ramsar sites as listed under the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance Especially as Waterfowl Habitat (the Ramsar Convention), 1973. Ramsar sites are selected based on their importance for biodiversity, ecosystem services, and their significance as habitats for waterfowl and other wildlife. These sites can include a variety of wetland types such as marshes, lakes, rivers, peatlands, and coastal areas. |
| Nature Reserves | Planning Constraints | This dataset show both National and Local Nature Reserve boundaries. A National Nature Reserve (NNR) is the land declared under the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 or Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) as amended. Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) are a statutory designation made under Section 21 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 by principal local authorities. Nature Reserves are protected sites chosen for their ecological significance, biodiversity, and importance for scientific research, education, and public enjoyment. |
| Listed Buildings | Planning Constraints | This dataset provides the locations of Listed Buildings. These can be structures or buildings that have been officially designated by either Historic England or CADW as having special architectural or historic significance. This is the National Listed Building register, and does not include Locally Listed Buildings designated by the Local Authority. |
| Scheduled Monuments | Planning Constraints | This dataset shows locations of Scheduled Monuments which are nationally important archaeological sites or historic buildings that are given protection against unauthorised changes. |
| Certificates of Immunity | Planning Constraints | This dataset provides essential information on buildings in England with Certificate of Immunity (COI) status. A COI guarantees that a building will not be statutorily listed or be served with a Building Preservation Notice by the local planning authority for the succeeding five years. |