This PPG gives guidance on how the Government's policies for the conservation of our natural heritage are to be reflected in land use planning. It: sets out the Government's objectives for nature conservation, and the framework for safeguarding our natural heritage; describes the key role of local planning authorities and English Nature; emphasizes the importance of both designated sites and undesignated areas for nature conservation; advises on the treatment of nature conservation issues in development plans; states development control criteria; contributes to the implementation of the EC Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora; elaborates on minerals development and nature conservation, and on the development control implications of species protection.