Countryside settlement boundaries 2018 (planning policy area) planning - open data Edit

A Countryside Policy Boundary (CPB) is a planning designation used by local authorities to define the limits of built-up areas and control development in the countryside. It is typically drawn around settlements to distinguish between urban or village areas where development is generally acceptable and rural areas where stricter planning controls apply.

Purpose of a Countryside Policy Boundary

Prevent Urban Sprawl – Helps manage the spread of settlements and protects rural areas from unplanned development.
Protect the Countryside – Ensures open spaces, landscapes, and agricultural land are safeguarded from inappropriate development.
Focus Development in Sustainable Locations – Encourages new housing, infrastructure, and businesses within defined settlement areas rather than scattered rural development.
Support Rural Character – Maintains the distinct identity of rural communities by preventing settlements from merging.

Development Within & Outside CPBs

Inside the Boundary: Development is generally supported if it aligns with the Local Plan (e.g., housing, businesses, and infrastructure).
Outside the Boundary: Strict planning controls apply, meaning new development is usually restricted unless it serves rural purposes, such as agriculture, forestry, or essential infrastructure. Some exceptions may include rural exception housing, tourism-related development, or re-use of existing buildings.

Difference Between CPB and Green Belt

A CPB is a local planning tool specific to certain settlements, whereas the Green Belt is a national designation aimed at preventing urban expansion over a much wider area.

Resources

Additional Info

License	UK Open Government Licence v3.0
Category	Council and Government, Food and Environment, Housing and Estates, Planning and Development, Tourism
Maintainer	Stirling Council
Date Created	2024-11-07
Date Updated	2025-03-18
Original dataset link	https://data-stirling-council.hub.arcgis.com/datasets/stirling-council::countryside-settlement-boundaries-2018-planning-policy-area-planning-open-data