NFU comments on National Planning Policy Framework

New planning guidelines that support sustainable development in rural areas should be a boost for agriculture and horticulture, the NFU has said.

The Governments draft National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) sets out the guidelines on which local and neighbourhood plans should be based. At its heart is a presumption in favour of sustainable development so that planning encourages growth rather than acts as an impediment.

Specifically, the document recognises that planning policies should promote the development and diversification of agricultural businesses, as well as encourage development that builds resilience to climate change and foster renewable energy. There will now be a 12-week consultation period for feedback.

NFU Vice President Gwyn Jones said: The overall tone of the document is encouraging and recognises that the role of planning is to support, rather than frustrate attempts to secure sustainable growth in rural and urban areas alike. The draft guidance is clear and succinct and Im pleased that the Government appears to have recognised the need for a positive approach to development in rural areas as well as urban. This links closely with the Governments Growth Review which draws attention to the need to help rural areas contribute to rebalancing the economy.

The whole agri-food sector needs to see significant development over the course of the coming years if it is to become more competitive and economically robust. But development on family farms is also needed to ensure that the industry can become more environmentally sustainable and resilient to climate change.

Overall, the goals of the NPPF need to align with those of the Governments Foresight report on the Future of Food and Farming, which include promoting sustainable intensification as a key priority action. Recognising the Governments desire to decentralise decision making on planning, a key challenge will be in translating the encouraging words contained in the draft NPPF into decisions that are ultimately made at a local and neighbourhood level.

This is a good start and we look forward to continuing positive dialogue with the Government during the consultation period to fine tune the document.