The Parish Fields contribute greatly to the distinct character of Diss. The significant contribution to this historic character is noted in the Diss Settlement Policy Document of the Adopted South Norfolk Local plan. The Norfolk Heritage Explorer (http://www.heritage.norfolk.gov.uk/record-details?mnf33463) describes its recognition in the Norfolk Historic Gardens Survey: "grade two-star (regional importance). Only known remaining example of a Detached Landscape Park in Norfolk"with "Woodland belts established by 1890; some clumps of trees at least as old as 1838". Today this low-input grassland with ancient trees includes two dew ponds over much of the year, attracting ducks and occasionally heron while providing favourable habitat for insects and hence (on warm, summer evenings) bats. Housing development would be entirely inappropriate.