The new National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is the biggest update to planning policy in a generation, with rural landowners set to benefit from a more supportive and streamlined rules-based system.
Planning has often been another obstacle for rural businesses and farmers to navigate, whether proposals are to support traditional agricultural activities, diversify, or develop. Having faced increasing challenges to keep rural businesses viable in recent years and make best use of land, the rural sector will no doubt welcome this suite of planning changes as a positive step in the right direction.
Ros Trotman, Partner in Thrings’ Planning and Environment team, highlights five key changes that will stand to benefit the rural sector.