A HUGE country estate plans to create “tranquility” zones and a monastic retreat at the heart of the South Downs.

Wiston Estate based at Steyning - has set out its Whole Estate Plan which also includes a proposal to regenerate a quarry into a sustainable base for tourism and provide services and space for local businesses.

This is the first time a large estate in the South Downs National Park has set out a Whole Estate Plan which looks not only at planning but also at farming, woodland management conservation and access.

The plan, now endorsed by the South Downs National Park Authority, does not guarantee planning permission but will be a material consideration in determining planning applications.

Tim Slaney, director of planning for the South Downs National Park Authority, said: “We’ve been impressed by how the Wiston Estate and their consultants Rural Solutions have seized the opportunity to work with us on this progressive approach; their aspirations across the Estate and how they connect; and their commitment to the future of the South Downs National Park.”

Rural Solutions provide planning and development support and advice to landowners to help them adapt and develop their estates.

Rob Hindle, director at Rural Solutions, said:“We have worked with many clients over the years to produce estate-scale plans but this is the first time that the process has been promoted by a planning authority.

“The plan is grounded in sustainability and stewardship and will play a key part in enabling the estate’s plans for projects to enhance environmental quality, improve access and deliver significant social and economic benefits.

“It really is a notable example and I hope that other authorities will take notice of this approach.”

Richard Goring, manager of Wiston Estate, said:“When the National Park invited landowners to produce a Whole Estate Plan we could see the value it would bring to the Wiston Estate, particularly given that we are in a period of succession between generations.

“It was a daunting prospect to put together a plan which worked for both the family, the estate, the community and the National Park Authority.”