A new Lake District planning framework document - the Local Development Framework Core Strategy - has finally been given approval by the Lake District National Park Authority.

Aimed at delivering a more proactive approach to developments in the national park over the next 15 years, the paper now becomes the key document supporting all planning applications in the area, including those projects related to tourism and visitor attractions. The main purpose of the strategy is to deliver the 'Vision' for the Lake District National Park (LDNP) and in a major shift in policy will see developments related to five key geographic areas - north, south, west, east and central and south east. These are designed to reflect the social, economic and physical links of different communities across the national park.

New policies will address issues such as increasing traffic volume and seasonal congestion in what is the largest national park in England, with a resident population of around 42,000 and annual visitor numbers reaching eight million; the erosion of tranquility and local distinctiveness; and the lack of both diverse employment opportunities and affordable housing. Spatial Planning and Communities team leader Chris Warren said: "What makes this planning document different is that it is flexible to meet the needs and demands of our communities, which include those who live, work and visit the Lake District.

"It's a shift away from prescriptive policies and now we can work better with everyone to manage development proactively." Image: LDNPA