THE region's most important historical landmarks are to receive greater protection under plans announced by Communities Minister Baroness Andrews.

The Government is to protect all 17 of England's World Heritage Sites, three of which are in the North-East and North Yorkshire - Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Estate, near Ripon, Durham castle and cathedral, and Hadrian's Wall.

The twin Anglo-Saxon monastery of Wearmouth, Wearside, and Jarrow, South Tyneside, is the UK's nomination for World Heritage Site status in 2010.

World Heritage status is only granted by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) for major cultural and natural heritage locations considered to have outstanding universal value.

The Unesco World Heritage committee will meet in July to review new and existing sites but, for the first time, the Government wants to put all of England's World Heritage Sites on the same footing as its conservation areas, national parks and areas of outstanding beauty by including them in national planning protection rules.

The changes, which are the subject of consultation, will also prevent minor development occurring without planning permission.

Seemingly minor changes, such as roof alterations, new buildings nearby or artificial stoning could, when added together, have a devastating impact on a World Heritage Site. In addition, English Heritage is publishing guidance that gives detailed advice on how to give proper consideration and protections to World Heritage Sites.

Baroness Andrews said: "We want to ensure our historic buildings, landmarks and our cultural treasures are preserved for current and future generations."

"We are changing the planning rules to give all English World Heritage Sites the best protection from potentiallydamaging developments that could threaten authenticity, accessibility and charm or character."

Dr Christopher Young, head of world heritage and international policy for English Heritage, said: "One of the main threats faced by World Heritage Sites is the incremental damage to those outside of the protection provided by conservation areas, national parks or areas of outstanding natural beauty. We welcome that this has been addressed."