Historic parks and gardens

Local list of parks and gardens of historic and landscape interest

Historic parks and gardens are characteristic features of east and west Suffolk, either side of the High Suffolk clay plateau. This reflected the position of the largest landed estates, including in the Suffolk Sandlings and also their geographical distribution along the historic route between Ipswich and Great Yarmouth. These parks were construed as primarily an aesthetic landscape – an irregular, ‘naturalistic’ setting of grass, trees and woodland around a big house. Parks were expressions of status and wealth, marking out the owner as a member of the landed elite.

Inclusion of an historic park and garden on the Local List ensures that, as an identified Non-Designated Heritage Asset, relevant policies in the Local Plans and in the National Planning Policy Framework can be applied for their protection.

National register of parks and gardens of special historic interest

Under the Historic Buildings and Ancient Monuments Act 1953, Historic England compiles a register of “gardens and other land” situated in England that appear to be of special historic interest. The main purpose of this register is to celebrate designed landscapes of note, and encourage appropriate protection. It is hoped that drawing attention to sites in this way will increase awareness of their value and encourage those who own them, or who otherwise have a role in their protection and their future, to treat these special places with due care.

Registration is a 'material consideration' in the planning process, meaning that planning authorities must consider the impact of any proposed development on the landscapes' special character. These parks and gardens are Designated Heritage Assets and have a high threshold of protection afforded them in planning decision making.