Traditionally, landscape planning has involved the designation and protection of exceptional countryside. However, whilst this still remains important, there is a growing recognition of the multi-functionality of rural areas, and the need to encourage sustainable use of the whole countryside rather than just its 'hotspots'.

With an inter-disciplinary assessment of the rural environment, this book draws on theories of landscape values, people-place relationships, sustainable development, and plan implementation. It focuses on the competing influences of globalization and...