Explanation G4

9.27

Appropriate proposals for rural diversification can help to maintain a good quality and diverse landscape, protecting a valuable resource and supporting economic activity.  The Council recognises that diversification into non-agricultural activities can be vital to the continuing viability of many farm enterprises.  Rural diversification shall be encouraged where it contributes to sustainable development objectives and preserves the openness of the Green Belt and does not conflict the purpose of including land within it.

9.28

Where rural diversification requires buildings, the Council encourages the re-use or replacement of existing buildings.  Where farm diversification proposals in the Green Belt would result in “in-appropriate” development in terms of Planning Policy Guidance note 2 “Green Belts”, any wider benefits of the diversification may contribute to the ‘very special circumstances’ required by PPG2 for a development to be granted planning permission. (PPS7:

“Sustainable Development in Rural Areas”, 2004).

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