Planning system reform – NFU submits response to NPPF

The NFU’s response to the NPPF consultation is one of concern, and great interest.

The country is seeing far-reaching changes to the planning system, through reforms of the NPPF among other changes.

The NFU has written to ensure that agriculture isn’t left behind, negatively impacted, or forgotten by reforms that aim to drive economic growth and infrastructure development.

Changes proposed to how land is made available and the principle of development, have not been offered with a suitable level of protection for agricultural land, especially Best and Most Versatile.

The NFU has also stated how agricultural land in the green belt should be protected, and not included in reforms such as Previously Developed Land and the new grey belt.

The NFU has found that there is much opportunity to support food production around the country, which must start with the reversal of proposed changes to footnote 63.

Expansion of food production needed

Further to this aim, there should be an expansion of food production in the NPPF to main body policy, as well as classing it as an economic argument.

Our response to planning policies relating to climate change and how to boost the rural economy demonstrate a need for more supportive policy on agricultural infrastructure, as well as greater support for rural affordable housing of a rented tenure.

Finally, we included concern for those that may see their land in high demand from the anticipated new development that will come from the proposals. The NFU has particular concern for tenanted farmers, and those with agricultural operations that abut new developments, all of which could see significant impacts if greater protections are not introduced.

It is clear for the NFU that agriculture and food production are not a priority for this consultation, and there must be a reversal of this position to secure the future of British food security, a sustainably managed countryside, and a farming sector that can adapt to climate change.

NFU members can log in and read the NFU’s response in full: NPPF consultation 2024 – NFU response.

Members with questions, concerns or interest in the NFU's response can contact CallFirst on 0370 845 8458 today.

The NFU's feedback form allowing members to feed into our overall response has now closed for submissions.

The latest revisions to the NPPF focus on accelerating housing delivery and economic development while updating key land use and infrastructure policies.

The strengthened presumption in favour of sustainable development allows developers to bypass local plans if they are outdated or insufficient, potentially increasing housing projects.

The reintroduction of a mandatory duty to cooperate among local authorities aims to improve strategic planning for housing, infrastructure, and economic goals.

Housing supply requirements have been reinforced, with a new standard method affecting housing targets and emphasising social rent within affordable housing provisions. This change is expected to boost housebuilding across various regions.

Support for large-scale economic projects, such as giga-factories and data centres, has been expanded, likely driving interest in land near urban areas and potentially impacting agricultural operations due to new infrastructure needs.

Simplifications in land use policies now allow for easier high-density development in areas previously restricted by local character considerations.

Additionally, minor updates have been made to policies on school provision, sustainable transport, and communications infrastructure, while more significant changes include removing the term ‘beauty’ from design considerations and easing restrictions on upward extensions in lower-density areas.

These revisions collectively aim to streamline development processes, enhance cooperation among authorities, and support the government’s broader housing and economic objectives.