Introduce policy protection for key views.

While Policy NE2 is supported in general we believe there is a need to introduce policies to protect key views, within and across the District. Development should not be permitted in areas where important views will be lost or degraded.

Views of the Cathedral are of particular importance, as are views to and from the Downs.

Long range views from the Downs towards the sea (and vice versa) and views to the Cathedral spire contribute positively to the character and sense of place within the District, whether views are close or distant.

Development should not be permitted in areas where important views will be lost or degraded, or where a new development will intrude an appreciation of the Cathedral (and heart of the city) as being close to and linked to the surrounding countryside.

The form of the city and those links between the countryside and city centre that remain, should be protected from amorphous housing development that degrades Chichester’s special form and character.