NFU Scotland (NFUS) has warmly welcomed proposed changes to Permitted Development Rights (PDR) as a fillip to business development and diversification.
The Scottish government is proposing the following changes to PDRs:
- To increase PDR for agricultural sheds to 1,000m², making them more reflective of modern machinery and needs of industry and bringing them into line with England;
- To extend PDR for conversion of farm buildings to residential and commercial use, creating opportunity for retirement housing and farm diversification;
- Clarification over position of polytunnels and intention for further guidance.
NFUS’s head of policy team Gemma Cooper said:
“NFUS has been pressing the Scottish government to extend PDRs for some time now so it is encouraging for farming and crofting businesses to see such solid progress.
The proposal to allow larger sheds is particularly welcome as it will mean that these rights are more reflective of the needs of modern industry.
“We would urge the Scottish government to progress with these proposals as soon as it is able to.”
Food and drink in Scotland
Cooper concluded.
“Given the importance of the buoyant soft fruit sector to Scotland’s food and drink industry, the intention to provide further guidance for polytunnels is welcome.
“It is encouraging to see that the Scottish government has taken a pragmatic approach to this particular issue, as our soft fruit growers seek to extend the seasons when fresh, tasty Scottish fruit is available on our shelves.”
