About CPRE

Why we're needed
No matter where you live in England, the countryside is next door, if not where you live. Even in London it is very easy to quickly leave the city proper and get to peaceful greenfields. Time and again, opinion polls reveal that we value our countryside greatly and walking in the countryside is one of our most popular activities.

But massive housing, industrial and road developments are eating up the countryside and blurring the distinction between town and country; light pollution is whiting out the stars; uniform developments are eroding local distinctiveness; and run-down urban centres are encouraging people to flee to the countryside, spurring ever-greater pressure for development.

If we don't carefully plan for the future, we'll find we've lost what it is we love most about rural England. That is why CPRE helps people get involved with the planning process, showing them how they can help to influence the decisions that shape their local environment.

We have been involved in planning for 80 years - and our lobbying played a big part in getting the planning system created. Planning is one of the most important tools for protecting England's precious countryside and enabling it to change for the better

We stand for

• Planning that results in urban renewal, not suburban sprawl
• A beautiful, thriving countryside for all, forever
• Getting what we need from the countryside, without damaging it
• Farming that provides healthy, local foods and beautiful landscapes
• Travel choices that don't wreck the countryside

Our work
We are a registered charity and anyone who supports our aims is encouraged to join us. We operate as a network with over 200 district groups, a branch in every county, a group in every region and a national office.

> Main website
> CPRE local contacts
> Our campaigns
> Our publications

We can help
We are one of the longest established and most respected environmental groups in the country, influencing policy and raising awareness since we were founded in 1926.

Our staff and volunteers have years of hands-on experience working with all levels of the planning system. Please contact us if you have any questions or comments.