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Written question asked by Peter Bone (Conservative) on Friday, 14 April 2023, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 19 April 2023 (named day). It was answered by Felicity Buchan (Conservative) on Friday, 21 April 2023 on behalf of the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.

Renewable Energy: Planning Permission

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, what recent assessment he has made of the impact of the planning system on on-farm renewable energy projects.

Answer

National planning policy is clear that local authorities should have a positive strategy in place to promote energy from renewable and low carbon sources such as solar plants.

The Government also recognises the need to preserve our most productive farmland. The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is clear that planning decisions should 'contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment' by recognising the 'benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land'. Where significant development of agricultural land is shown to be necessary, the Framework sets out that areas of poorer quality land should be used in preference to those of a higher quality.

The Government recently consulted on proposed changes to the NPPF, which includes a change relating to food security, building on what is already in the NPPF on preserving most productive farmland. Ministers and officials are currently analysing the responses received before issuing a formal response.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
180183
Session
2022-23
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Farms Planning permission Renewable energy
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk