Land use is a key component of the historic environment.
The planning system operates to regulate the development and use of land in the public interest with the Secretary of State responsible for setting the general framework for the planning system. The Planning System indicates the objectives for the planning system and the legislative and administrative framework within which planning policies are formed and implemented. Maintaining and enhancing the quality of the historic environment and preserving the country's heritage are important functions of the planning system. The planning system aims to resolve any conflict between conservation and development to secure mutual benefit as well as prevent development that is detrimental to the historic environment. It provides the context within which policies in support of the historic environment can be set out and applied.