Planning should be a shot-in-the-arm for the rural economy
"Future Wales": CLA Cymru responds to the Welsh Government's vision for planning until 2040
“The Welsh planning system should be improved to aid the recovery of the rural economy after the pandemic, and create a rural powerhouse in our countryside. Huge potential for growth exists as farmers, landowners and businesspeople are looking to diversify, grow or create additional businesses. This will create secure, long-term jobs and attract the future visitors’ pound. How we’re planning to reinvigorate the economy – and critically where – will inevitably feature-large in the approaching Senedd election campaign. We hope to be in recovery from the pandemic. Now’s the time to be taking advantage of quick-wins for economic recovery.”
“We welcome the new ways of approaching development to social objectives and the imperative to tackle climate change. New ideas and technology will be eagerly embraced by those looking to develop. Securing investment and assurance that good projects in good locations can go-ahead is the first step to growth. We need our Government controlled planning system to be a catalyst and enabler – and less an obstruction and blockage for sound projects.”
“The planning process should be simpler, more efficient, more transparent and less costly,” Nigel continues. “Above all it needs to be a facilitator for responsible and much-needed growth. We are currently urging the Welsh Government to double the length of Permitted Development Rights from 28 to 56 days. Local authorities should look to applications here to take best advantage of seasonal opportunities and regenerate the economy in their area.”
CLA Cymru is hosting a free, open-to-all, online event on 16 March: Planning Policy to Aid Rural Business Growth. The CLA’s Head of Planning, Fenella Collins will be joined by Welsh planning specialists, Rhys Davies from Cadnant, and Lloyd James from Owen and Owen, and rural private developer, Adrian Lort Phillips from Lawrenny Estates. Nigel Hollett continues, “Between them they have experience of successful planning projects in North and South Wales – in a wide range of commercial sectors and in residential planning.”