Agriculture

2.19 Structure Plan Policy 19 provides a context for the consideration of proposals which involve the loss of agricultural land indicating, in accordance with Government guidance, that the best and most versatile should be protected for use for agricultural purposes. It is believed that there is no grade 1 land in the District and that the amount of grade 2 land is limited. Further, published maps do not distinguish between sub-grades 3A and 3B, although site specific advice can be obtained by the Council from MAFF where necessary. Such site specific investigations will be necessary on those occasions when the loss of agricultural land is a material issue in the determination of a planning application. In certain circumstances, where lower grade land is particularly important to a local holding, it may be appropriate to extend the protection offered by Policy 19 to that lower grade land.

Agricultural Diversification

Policy NE8

A proposal that will diversify and support activity on an existing agricultural holding will be permitted, provided that the proposal is appropriate to the location concerned.

2.20 Policy NE8 is intended to facilitate, within the controls required by other development plan policies, a wider range of initiatives in farm diversification including those which may involve the use of land or buildings for activities which are not traditionally associated with farming operations. This may include a variety of tourism, retail or employment based activities and operations, in particular those which add value to local agricultural produce. Clearly such uses should not conflict with those already established in the area and proposals must also be able to achieve satisfactory standards of design, landscaping, access, parking and amenity.

Building for Agriculture and Forestry

Policy NE9

Proposals involving the erection of buildings or structures for agricultural or forestry use will be permitted if they:

1. demonstrate standards of design and the use of materials which respect the character of the setting concerned, and
2. are sited and landscaped to minimise impact on adjoining uses and the landscape.

2.21 As an exception to the controls which normally restrict development in the countryside, the Council regularly considers planning applications and notices of intention for the erection of agricultural buildings and structures. In order to protect the character of the landscape and other interests of importance, proposals for such development should demonstrate appropriate standards of design and materials and take into account factors such as impact on the landscape or established adjoining uses while accommodating the operational requirements of the enterprise concerned.