Chapter 4: Grant and Implementation of Planning Permission Chapter 6: Other Provision Section 136: Developments affecting ancient woodland. Effect
Section 136(1) creates a duty to amend the Town and Country Planning (Consultation) (England) Direction 2021 within three months of Royal Assent. Its effect is to ensure that local planning authorities must consult the Secretary of State where they do not intend to refuse planning permission in relation to applications for development affecting ancient woodland.
	Section 136(2) defines "ancient woodland" as referred to in subsection (1) as meaning an area in England which has been continuously wooded since at least the end of the year 1600 A.D.
	Section 136(3) indicates this section does not affect the Secretary of State’s ability to withdraw or vary the 2021 Direction after it has been varied to give effect to this provision.