From AONB to High Weald National Landscape: What the Change Means for Homeowners and Architecture in Sussex

Map highlighting the High Weald National Landscape boundary across Kent, East Sussex

The High Weald has long been recognised as one of the most treasured landscapes in England. For decades, it carried the designation Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), ensuring protection for its rolling hills, ancient woodland, and distinctive historic character.

In late 2023, however, the name changed. The High Weald AONB is now officially called the High Weald National Landscape (HWNL), part of a nationwide rebranding of AONBs. But what does this mean for homeowners, for people considering development in the area, and for the architectural character of Sussex?

At Karenna Wilford Architects (KWA), we specialise in designing homes within the High Weald’s protected landscape. Here, we explain the reasons behind the change, what it means in practice and how expert architectural input can make all the difference when planning a project in this remarkable part of the country.

Contemporary rural home with timber cladding.

Why the Name Changed: From AONB to National Landscape

In 2023, the National Association for AONBs confirmed that all Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty across England and Wales would be rebranded as National Landscapes.

The reasoning was simple:

• Clarity and Recognition: The term “AONB” was widely misunderstood. By comparison, “National Landscape” is clearer and more powerful, highlighting that these areas are just as important as National Parks.

• Consistency Across the UK: It brings the designation in line with international terminology used for protected landscapes.

• Raising Awareness: “National Landscape” better conveys the importance of these areas in terms of biodiversity, heritage, and climate action.

For the High Weald, now known as the High Weald National Landscape (HWNL), the rebrand reinforces its national significance rather than presenting it as simply a local designation.

What Makes the High Weald National Landscape Special?

Stretching across Sussex, Kent and Surrey, the High Weald is one of the best-preserved medieval landscapes in Northern Europe. Its character has been shaped by centuries of human activity, yet it retains a remarkable harmony between settlement and countryside.

Key features include:

• Rolling Hills and Ancient Woodland – over 70% of the area is farmland, interspersed with some of the country’s oldest surviving woodlands.

• Historic Field Patterns – distinctive small, irregular fields divided by hedgerows, a direct legacy of medieval farming.

• Farmsteads and Oast Houses – scattered settlements, historic farm buildings, and iconic oast houses that define the High Weald’s cultural identity.

• Wildlife and Biodiversity – a vital refuge for rare species, with connected habitats that support everything from dormice to nightingales.

It is precisely this delicate balance between natural beauty and human settlement that makes designing new homes here so complex — and so rewarding.

What the Change Means for Planning and Development

While the name has changed, the planning restrictions remain the same. Development within the High Weald National Landscape is still tightly controlled to protect the area’s special qualities.

This means:

• New builds, extensions and renovations must be designed in harmony with the landscape.

• Proposals are assessed against both national planning policy and local authority frameworks.

• Any project is expected to enhance or conserve the character of the landscape.

The rebrand to “National Landscape” may also bring greater visibility and expectations. Local authorities and communities are increasingly focused on sustainability, biodiversity, and low-carbon building practices. For homeowners, this underscores the importance of working with architects who understand not only design but also the nuances of planning in such a sensitive environment.

The natural beauty and topography of rural Sussex.

Designing Homes in the High Weald National Landscape

At Karenna Wilford Architects, we have extensive experience working within both the former AONB and the newly named HWNL. Our approach is rooted in:

• Respecting the Landscape: We use forms, materials and scales that respond to the High Weald’s historic and rural setting, often incorporating timber, stone, and brick that echo local building traditions.

• Modern Living, Thoughtfully Integrated: We create homes that deliver the comfort and style clients expect, while ensuring they sit comfortably within their setting.

• Innovation with Sensitivity: From natural light optimisation to renewable energy integration, we balance sustainability with the character of the landscape.

Each project is an opportunity to celebrate the High Weald’s heritage while offering clients a home tailored to their lifestyle.

Why Choose an Architect with HWNL Experience?

Planning permission within the High Weald National Landscape can be challenging to navigate. Working with an architect who understands both the planning framework and the character of the landscape is invaluable.

Karenna Wilford Architects offers:

• Proven Success: A track record of obtaining planning permission for projects in sensitive landscapes.

• Local Knowledge: Familiarity with local authority requirements and conservation priorities.

• Balanced Solutions: Designs that satisfy both clients’ aspirations and planning constraints.

Without this specialist expertise, homeowners often face unnecessary delays, rejected applications or designs that fail to make the most of their site’s potential.

The Future of the High Weald National Landscape

The rebrand signals a renewed commitment to protecting and celebrating landscapes like the High Weald. Looking ahead, we can expect:

• Stronger Emphasis on Sustainability – low-carbon design, renewable technologies, and biodiversity enhancement will become even more central to planning decisions.

• Greater National Recognition – as awareness of “National Landscapes” grows, the High Weald will attract more attention, not only for its beauty but also for its role in conservation and climate resilience.

• Ongoing Challenges – balancing housing needs with the need to preserve landscape character will continue to require sensitive, intelligent architectural solutions.

Contemporary rural home in Sussex.

Conclusion: The Name Has Changed, the Values Remain

The transition from Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) to High Weald National Landscape (HWNL) is more than a rebrand. It’s a statement of national importance, highlighting the value of this extraordinary region.

For homeowners and developers, it is a reminder that the protections remain robust and that achieving planning success requires expertise, creativity, and a deep respect for the landscape.

At Karenna Wilford Architects, we are proud to be specialists in designing homes in the High Weald. We combine a love of the area’s heritage with innovative design thinking to create homes that are both timeless and contemporary.

If you are considering a project in Sussex, Kent, or Surrey within the High Weald National Landscape, we’d be delighted to discuss how we can help bring your vision to life.

Contact Karenna Wilford Architects today to explore your options and take the first step toward a home that truly belongs in the landscape.