FARMERS across the Province will be able to undertake new building work or extend existing buildings without having to go through the planning application process under new easing in the planning system proposed yesterday by Environment Minister Alex Attwood.
The dispensation would enable farmers to construct buildings up to 500 square metres without the need for a planning application (the equivalent of over 5,000 square feet). At present they can erect up to 300 square metres without the need for a planning application.
“The agriculture industry represents a vital part of the economy,” said Mr Attwood.
“These proposals, which are the most generous in these islands, will eliminate unnecessary red tape to enable agriculture to grow in a challenging economic climate. I want to help expand our agri- food business by 40 per cent in the next few years. That is what producers tell me they hope to achieve – these changes can help the industry to do so.”
Increasing the range of agricultural development, he added, would make it easier for farmers to undertake development.
The consultation will also provide for the installation of structures of up to 500sqm to house anaerobic digestion plants to encourage the use of the treatment process to turn farm crops and animal waste to produce biogas which can be used as a fuel for power and heat.
Following public consultation and the Assembly process Mr Attwood said he anticipated the proposals would become law in Spring 2013.
“I have said repeatedly that renewable energy and technology is our single biggest economic opportunity.
“This is why I am working hard to get planning better fit for purpose with more renewable approvals which will help our economy and meet Executive Renewable Energy targets. I want to do what I can to provide farmers and others to seize the benefits of renewable technologies such as anaerobic digesters.
“The measures proposed today and indeed all of the changes I am making to the planning system are all part of my ongoing commitment to ensure that planning delivers benefits to the economy in an efficient and timely manner whilst protecting our environment. The consultation runs until 18th January 2013.