23 February 2016, 16:38 PM
  • The Department for Communities and Local Government together with the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs is looking to simplify planning rules for farmers and growers
Rural Planning Update

The 10 week consultation will look at adapting the town planning system to benefit rural businesses and farmers who wish to develop their land, for example by building a farm shop.

Suzanne Clear, NFU senior advisor for planning and rural affairs said, “The planning system has often delayed farmers’ and growers’ ability to develop their farm businesses, diversify and get more homes on farm.

“Any planning issues can be raised so this review is a timely opportunity to feedback on how the system can work better. In particular the consultation asks about using permitted development rights for a farm shop, polytunnels and on-farm reservoirs. It also provides the chance to feedback on the planning rules for converting farm building to agricultural use.”

The deadline for submissions to this call for evidence is 21 April 2016.