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Written question asked by Helen Morgan (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 18 May 2026. It was answered by Mary Creagh (Labour) on Tuesday, 19 May 2026 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Agriculture: Permitted Development Rights

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether her department has considered the potential merits of expanding Permitted Development Rights for agricultural developments.

Answer

Defra is exploring how to improve the planning system for key food and farming infrastructure and working closely with MHCLG, Natural England and the Environment Agency to deliver on these priorities.

This Government is delivering the biggest reform to planning in a generation including consulting on proposed changes to the National Planning Policy Framework that would provide significant support to agrifood developments. This policy has been developed to recognise the need for investment in infrastructure to meet the sectors ambitions for the environment, animal welfare and economic growth.

Major reforms to agricultural permitted development rights were brought forward in 2024. The Government is working with industry to help us better understand whether further reforms will be effective in supporting agricultural development in a way that aligns with Government’s environmental objectives.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
386
Session
2026-27
Registered interest declared
Yes
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Agriculture Permitted development rights
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk