NFU Cymru calls for planning reform to support Welsh farming

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 10 Oct, 06:15 · Archive

NFU Cymru says planning delays are damaging farm productivity and causing financial strain for farmers across Wales.

Planning delays are damaging farm productivity and causing unnecessary stress and financial strain, according to NFU Cymru. The union raised concerns during a meeting with Welsh Government cabinet minister for local government, housing and planning, Siân Gwenllian MS. NFU Cymru president Abi Reader and rural affairs board chair Gary Yeomans presented a paper outlining the planning challenges facing farmers across Wales, compiled by the Rural Affairs Board with key recommendations for a more effective planning system.

Gary Yeomans said an enabling planning system is essential for farmers to invest in modern buildings and on-farm infrastructure to improve environmental performance and animal welfare standards. He noted the system should support new homes for farm succession and to keep young people in rural areas, as well as on-farm diversification and energy generation. However, he said the planning process is often cited by farmers as a barrier to progress.

NFU Cymru has made planning reform a priority and is seeking to work with the Welsh Government to deliver a system better reflecting rural needs. During the meeting, the union also raised long-standing concerns about planning applications for poultry units, many of which remain unresolved. Ms Reader said the delays are adding to costs, hitting sector confidence and causing considerable stress for members.

NFU Cymru calls for planning reform to support Welsh farming — Image: North Wales Chronicle

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How it is being reported

NFU Cymru says planning delays are hitting farm productivity with stress and strainPlanning delays are hitting farm productivity and causing unnecessary stress and financial strain, according to NFU Cymru.North Wales Chronicle · 10 Oct, 05:00
NFU Cymru says planning delays are hitting farm productivity with stress and strainPlanning delays are hitting farm productivity and causing unnecessary stress and financial strain, according to NFU Cymru.North Wales Pioneer · 10 Oct, 05:00

In this story: NFU Cymru · Welsh Government · Siân Gwenllian MS · Abi Reader · Gary Yeomans · Wales

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