Natural England is proposing an extension to the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), which could bring both opportunities and new planning considerations for landowners in the area.
Natural England has issued the draft Designation Variation Order for the proposed Surrey Hills National Landscape boundary extension, which is now open for public consultation. Altogether, the proposed new AONB covers approximately 129 square kilometres.
These changes may offer new opportunities, including eligibility for additional grant funding such as Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL). However, the designation would also introduce greater planning constraints, particularly the removal of various permitted development rights such as Class Q.
Landowners who may be affected could benefit from a timely review of any existing or potential permitted development opportunities. We recommend seeking advice from planning professionals ahead of any confirmed changes.
The deadline for consultation responses is the 14th January 2026.
For guidance on how this proposal could impact you, please contact our Surrey Hills office today.