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<p>The Government is clear about the importance of retaining our valued open countryside
and greenfield land. The National Planning Policy Framework expects local authorities
to recognise the character and beauty of the countryside and the benefits from natural
capital and ecosystem services, including woodland and our best and most versatile
farmland. Under the consultation proposals in <em>Planning for the Future</em> , it
would still be for each local authority, in consultation with the community, to use
the local plan process to plan for and ensure the protection of any countryside. The
Government will publish a response to the consultation, including next steps.</p>
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