As discussions from Back British Farming Day continue, one point raised by the National Farmers’ Union deserves particular attention: the role of planning in supporting a resilient, productive and profitable farming sector. The NFU has been clear that farming should be recognised not only for its contribution to food production, but also for its role in economic growth, environmental delivery and national security.
From the perspective of Stephens Scown’s Planning and Rural teams, planning is increasingly a critical factor in the long-term viability of farming businesses.
Across the South West, farmers and landowners are navigating significant pressures, from changing agricultural support arrangements and climate resilience to succession planning, diversification and the need to generate new income streams. At the same time, many are looking to invest in infrastructure, renewable energy, agricultural development and rural enterprises that will enable their businesses to adapt and thrive.
Planning framework
The planning system has a central role to play in supporting that transition.
A well-functioning planning framework should provide clear pathways for sustainable farm diversification, investment in food production, renewable energy projects and rural business growth. Equally, planning decisions should recognise the strategic importance of maintaining productive agricultural land and supporting the businesses responsible for managing it.
The NFU has highlighted the opportunity for policymakers to use planning powers to support domestic food production and help create the confidence needed for long-term investment in the sector.
From our experience advising farming families, estates and rural businesses, certainty and clarity are often just as important as policy itself. Businesses are far more likely to invest when the planning framework enables informed decision-making and supports sustainable growth.
As the conversation about food security, economic growth and land use continues, planning must remain part of that discussion. The future of British farming will depend not only on the resilience of farming businesses themselves, but also on a planning system that enables them to evolve, invest and prosper.