Planning policy

Land use planning helps to secure sustainable development. It determines the location and design of buildings - such as housing, industry, retail and leisure developments - it helps to protect the countryside, and it shapes the future of where we live.

Development can have a detrimental impact on biodiversity, but good development and positive planning can enhance places for people and wildlife. The RSPB wants a planning system that delivers the right development, in the right place, at the right time.

About planning

Homes, businesses, roads, ports - we rely on them all, but sometimes new development can have a damaging effect on birds, wildlife and the wider environment. More...

Dartford warbler singing from flowering gorse bush

Planning and building for sustainability

The RSPB wants new construction and development to be sustainable. This means all new developments, such as housing, should avoid negative impacts on the environment, wherever possible. More...

Solar panels, Centre for Alternative Technology, Wales

Making space for wildlife

Planners must plan positively for wildlife. A new report by the RSPB shows that habitat re-creation opportunities should be identified, mapped and promoted in plans and decisions. More...

Kingfisher in reedbed, perched on branch

Strategic Environmental Assessment

The RSPB, together with the Countryside Council for Wales, English Nature and the Environment Agency, has published guidance on Strategic Environmental Assessment and biodiversity, aiming to help ensure that biodiversity considerations are appropriately addressed in these assessments. More...

Mineral extraction sites

The environmental implications of extracting minerals are potentially significant. A new minerals planning system would provide an opportunity for Government and other key players to meet their commitments to sustainable development. More...

Community Strategies

Community Strategies are the Government's new initiative, led by local authorities, to improve quality of life and contribute to sustainable development in the UK. Conserving wildlife and improving our natural environment form key ingredients of the Community Strategy process. More...

Meeting at the RSPB Loch Gruinart nature reserve

Planning reform in England and Wales

The RSPB has been heavily involved in the debate on the future of the planning system and the reforms that led to the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, and the Barker Review of Land Use Planning. More...

Old oak tree at Warndon Housing Project, Worcester

Northern Ireland Sustainable Planning Awards 2008/2009

The Royal Town and Planning Insitute (RTPI) NI Branch and RSPB Northern Ireland are hosting joint sustainable planning awards for the second year, to promote awareness and implementation of sustainable planning issues in Northern Ireland. More...